When Crisis Strikes: Mobilizing Support After a Natural Disaster

Brywn Philips has dedicated her career to education and community service. After many years as an English teacher, she embraced a new chapter in 2023 as Dean of Advancement. She holds a B.A. from Guilford College and an M.A. from the University of North Florida, and brings the same passion for storytelling and connection that defined her teaching to guiding the Foundation's efforts to build meaningful partnerships, support students, and strengthen the college's impact in the region.

Brenda Reash is the Executive Director of the Carteret Community College Foundation. Brenda has worked for the college since 2008. Her work as the Executive Director since 2016 has helped to raise more than $8 million dollars which included the first ever capital campaign for the college. Her dedication also includes working with donors to establish legacy gifts and new scholarships, over 34 new endowment and annual scholarships have been established since 2016.

During her 18 years at Carteret CC, Brenda helped establish new major fundraising events for the college, the Escoffier Dinner Series, Crystal Coast Wine Expo, and Celebration on the Sound concert.

Brenda earned her, Bachelor's of Science in Business Administration from Mount St. Mary's University, Master's in Public Administration from Strayer University, and her Certificate in Non-Profit Management from Duke University Continuing Studies.

Kelly Smith, Director of Resource Development, has been with Mayland Community College for 2 and a half years. In this role, she researches, prepares and manages grants for both the College and the Foundation. Prior to this, she worked for 15 years as Compliance Director ensuring the accreditation for the agency and licensing for specific programs remained current and compliant. Kelly has lived in Avery County for 20 years where she and her husband enjoy raising their 3 children on a Christmas Tree farm.