Trident United Way today announced the appointment of Bridget Durkan Laird as the organization’s Chief Advancement Officer. Laird (pictured), former CEO of WINGS for Kids, brings a wealth of expertise to this key role with over two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, program development and strategic growth.
Since 1998, Laird has been a cornerstone of WINGS for Kids, playing an essential role in the organization's growth and success. Her skills in program and curriculum development, grant writing and strategic expansion were pivotal in driving the organization forward. Under her leadership, Laird made notable advancements in the integration of social-emotional learning (SEL) into elementary education, establishing it as a vital component of contemporary school curricula.
During her tenure as CEO of WINGS for Kids, which began in January 2011, Laird led the organization through a period of significant expansion. Under her guidance, WINGS for Kids extended its reach to locations in Atlanta, Charlotte and Columbia, while increasing the number of kids served by more than 300%. Her initiative, “Soar with Wings,” a nationwide partnership with Discovery Education, further extended her impact, reaching millions of students across the United States.
President and CEO of Trident United Way DJ Hampton, expressed enthusiastic support for Laird’s appointment stating, “Bridget’s remarkable experience and forward-thinking leadership will be an invaluable addition to our team. Her profound understanding of community needs and her successful track record in spearheading impactful initiatives align seamlessly with our mission. We are confident that her expertise will enhance our capabilities and drive meaningful progress within our community.”
Beyond her work with WINGS for Kids, Laird is active on several local boards and advisory groups, including the Turn90, PURE Theater, Leap of Reason Ambassadors Community and the Liberty Fellowship (2015). She holds a B.S. in Parks and Recreation from North Carolina State University and an M.A. in Education with a focus in School-age Development from Concordia University.
“Stepping into the role of Chief Advancement Officer at Trident United Way is both a privilege and an exhilarating challenge,” said Laird. “This position offers a unique chance to channel my experience and enthusiasm into creating meaningful change. I look forward to working closely with our dedicated team to advance our mission and improve the well-being of our community. Together, I’m confident we can drive transformative growth and build a brighter future for those we serve.”
Bridget Durkan Laird will officially begin her role as Chief Advancement Officer on September 30.
