Our Staff

Our Team

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.

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Paula Benson

Executive Director

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.

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Krystal Cox

Programs Specialist

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 Programs Specialist, Krystal is ready to support organizations with aspects of the grantmaking process and building leadership capacity of Wilson nonprofits leaders. Beyond work, Krystal enjoys spending time with her husband, James, and their son Jay.

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Debbie Bradshaw

Operations Specialist

Debbie Bradshaw joined Healthcare Foundation of Wilson in 2015 as the Programs Specialist and now serves as the Operations Specialist. 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.

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