By: Renée Dain, Sr. Vice President, Communications and External Affairs
At The Coordinating Center, we are committed to building a strong and engaged Board of Directors that reflects diverse perspectives, including the voices of parents and consumers. Our Board plays a vital role in guiding the organization’s strategic direction, ensuring best practices in governance, and championing the needs of the people and families we serve.
I recently sat down with our new Chair of the Board, Carole Taylor, a longtime colleague and friend whom I’ve had the privilege of knowing for more than twenty years. I first met Carole when we worked together at a nonprofit dedicated to building community, and even then, she stood out as a thoughtful strategist and collaborator who always sought out better solutions. Ten years ago, when The Coordinating Center was seeking a board member with expertise in information systems and technology, and a genuine passion for supporting nonprofits and people with disabilities, Carole immediately came to mind. Since joining our Board, she has brought that same energy, insight, and compassion, guiding us through complex decisions with empathy and championing best practices in governance and leadership.
In our conversation, she shared her personal journey, what inspires her, and her hopes for the future of the organization.
Personal Connection & Motivation
What inspired you to join the board 10 years ago, and what has kept you engaged since?
I first learned about The Coordinating Center after you introduced me to the organization. Learning about the organization’s history, its mission and your passion for The Coordinating Center made me want to learn more. As I became more involved, I was deeply inspired by the organization’s impact on people with disabilities. On a personal note, when I joined the Board of Directors, my twin boys were just four years old, and as time went on, we discovered that one of my sons needed far more support than we had anticipated. I never expected that during my board service, my son would also become a client of The Coordinating Center. That personal connection, combined with my admiration for the staff and the families they serve, has kept me committed for over a decade.
As a parent of a client, how has that shaped your perspective on our mission and work?
Having my son as a client has given me a unique and humbling perspective. I have seen firsthand the complexities of care coordination and how vital The Coordinating Center is in helping families like mine navigate the system. I’ve learned that my son truly needs a village—and The Coordinating Center is a critical part of that village. This personal lens gives me a deep appreciation for the dedication of our staff and the importance of broadening access so more families can benefit.
Can you share a moment when you felt especially proud of the impact our organization had on your family or others?
I am proud every day to be a part of The Coordinating Center. During my tenure, I have had the privilege to meet several clients of The Coordinating Center and staff that help them. I am always deeply moved when meeting other clients and families—hearing their stories reinforces the life-changing impact The Coordinating Center has every day.
Professional Experience & Leadership
How has your experience as a Chief Operating Officer (COO) at a nonprofit influenced your approach to board leadership?
In my professional role, I’ve spent more than 24 years in nonprofit management, and now as COO, I oversee a broad portfolio that includes operations, technology, real estate, and risk management. That experience has taught me the importance of balancing strategy with practicality. As Board Chair, I will bring that same balance—ensuring we keep our mission at the center, while also making decisions that are fiscally responsible and sustainable for the long-term.
What leadership values do you bring to your role as Board Chair?
I am a problem solver, a leader that wants to get to “yes” whenever humanly possible while ensuring the decision is the best for the organization. I am constantly trying to innovate to meet shifting landscapes. I am dedicated to being a team player and value customer service, knowing that your customers are anyone and everyone you interact with each day.
I will continue to bring all of these values to The Coordinating Center in my role on the board.
What do you see as the biggest opportunities for nonprofit organizations serving people with disabilities today?
I am personally committed to helping people that I meet to share what I have learned on this journey including my personal experience, my work experience or my experience serving on nonprofit boards that help people with disabilities. There is so much complexity to navigating care for loved ones. I have been proud of all The Coordinating Center has done to educate the community and look forward to continuing to find ways to share their expertise with the community.
Vision & Goals
What are your hopes for the board and organization during your two-year term as Chair of the Board?
My hope is that we continue to strengthen The Coordinating Center’s foundation while also expanding our reach. I would like for us to collaborate with similar nonprofits to ensure that we can continue to meet the needs of the populations we serve. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work with our talented President and CEO, Dr. Teresa Titus-Howard, and look forward to supporting her and the organization during my tenure as Board Chair.
Looking Ahead
As Carole begins her term as Chair of the Board, we couldn’t be more grateful to have her leadership at this pivotal moment in our journey. She brings both professional expertise and personal experience as a parent advocate, grounding every decision in empathy and a clear vision for what’s possible. We are excited to partner with Carole in the years ahead as we continue to expand our reach, strengthen our foundation, and work together to create a lasting impact on the people and families we have the privilege of serving.
