Through expert leadership and counsel from its Board of Directors, the Healthcare Foundation of Wilson team has established its vision for a healthier Wilson community. Working together, it is our goal to enhance and stimulate the greater Wilson community as a best place to live, work, play and be healthy.
Paula Benson joined Healthcare Foundation of Wilson in 2024. Prior to her role at the Foundation, Paula was the Executive Director of Wilson Forward where she led impactful partnerships connecting leaders from all sectors towards measurable improvements in health and wellness, education, and workforce development. Over the past 10 years, she has served as a leader to many local, regional, and statewide organizations offering effective and efficient strategies to some of the biggest challenges and opportunities facing North Carolina. Paula earned her degrees in accounting and economics at Meredith College and joined EY of Raleigh where she began her career as a Certified Public Accountant. After EY, she transitioned to the finance team at SAS Institute in Cary, NC before returning to her hometown of Wilson. Paula currently serves in numerous leadership roles including the board of NC Rural Center, Community Colleges of NC, and Diversified Opportunities of Wilson.
Krystal Cox joined Healthcare Foundation of Wilson in 2024. Prior to her role at the Foundation, she served 16 years as an educator in the capacities of teacher, administrator, and educational consultant. Krystal earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Barton College, a master’s degree in School Administration and Supervision from University of Phoenix, and a doctorate from East Carolina University in K-12 Educational Leadership. During her tenure as the principal of Wilson Academy of Applied Technology, she cultivated her skills for workforce development, professional development, and grantmaking. Throughout her career, Krystal has enjoyed giving back to her community by serving on various community boards and being an advocate for educational equity. As the Vice President of Community Impact, Krystal is ready to support organizations with aspects of the grant making process and building leadership capacity of Wilson nonprofits leaders. Beyond work, Krystal enjoys spending time with her husband, James, and their son Jay.
Kellie Bennett joined the Healthcare foundation in 2025. Prior to her role at the Foundation, she served as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, providing counseling services to children and adolescents in both private practice and the school system. She played a pivotal role in establishing a new alternative school that emphasizes social-emotional learning and rehabilitation for children who face challenges within the traditional school environment. Kellie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Crisis and Trauma Counseling and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health from Liberty University. She is a proud wife of a retired military member and the mother of four beautiful daughters. In her leisure time, Kellie and her husband enjoy hiking and spending time outdoors with their children and dogs.
Debbie Bradshaw joined Healthcare Foundation of Wilson in 2015 as the Programs Specialist and now serves as the Office Manager. Prior to joining the Foundation, Debbie was the Benefits Coordinator in Human Resources at Wilson Medical Center. She has a B.S. in Business Administration from Barton College. Debbie and her husband enjoy spending time with family and attending the sporting events of their five grandchildren.
Elizabeth Woods is the Operations Manager at the Healthcare Foundation of Wilson, a role she has held since 2025. A Wilson native, Elizabeth brings a unique blend of creativity and business acumen to her work, drawing on her background in fashion merchandising and marketing. She graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, where she earned her degree in Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Marketing. During her time in Raleigh, Elizabeth actively contributed to the property management community, serving on the Triangle Apartment Association Special Events Committee and being selected as an Apartment Association of North Carolina 20 in their 20s participant, a recognition for her leadership potential. These experiences have shaped her approach to operations management, blending strategic thinking with a strong community-driven focus. Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys spending time with her family, especially her Dalmatian, Max. She is also an avid reader, likes to spend time with her friends, and loves to shop.
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