Jean Gordon
Wednesday, July 2, 2025 12:46 pm

Mary Elizabeth Bennett, formerly of Forest City and a daughter of Dr. John Mark and June Bennett, has been named the new CEO for Make-A-Wish Eastern North Carolina.

Naming Mary Elizabeth as CEO is a strategically significant decision for the organization, said a spokesperson at Make-A-Wish. Under her leadership as VP of Development, the chapter achieved its two most successful consecutive fiscal years to date She has initiated record-breaking fundraising milestones, including a 15 percent annual operating budget increase and positioned the chapter for sustainable long term impact. This has allowed the organization to grant a record breaking 212 wishes in 2024 with a goal of 230 wishes in 2025. This leadership shift isn't just an internal promotion, it's a moment of momentum that will support children battling critical illnesses from the Triangle to the coast.

Mary Elizabeth's connection to the mission began several ago when her cousin's wish was granted as a child. That lived experience has shaped her leadership journey and the powerful results she's delivered over the past six years holding various roles in the chapter.

"Our mission is simple: to create joy and deliver hope," Mary Elizabeth began. "I'm incredibly honored to lead our chapter into its next phase of growth, working to grant even more wishes for children right here in eastern North Carolina. This community is truly special, and it's a privilege to share our stories and help drive meaningful local impact."

"Transporting my personal connection to our mission into purposeful leadership continues to drive me every day and is the center of each and every decision we make as a team. When your heart fuels your work, anything is possible," she said.

"Mary Elizabeth has been a driving force behind our growth and impact for several years. Her passion for our mission, deep understanding of our community, and strategic mindset will drive further impact for the children and families in eastern North Carolina" said Board Chair Jeff Donahoe.

As a child, Mary Elizabeth started volunteering with Make-A-Wish when she was at East Rutherford High School, she dedicated her entire senior project at the time to the organization. She later graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

This transition is taking place ahead of celebrating the organization's 40th anniversary this upcoming fiscal year and right before the chapter's largest signature event this summer,Wish Ball, on August 7.

For more information about Make-A-Wish Foundation Eastern North Carolina, visit https://wish.org/eastnc.