The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina is pleased to announce that Laura Herndon, an attorney and skilled advancement officer, will join the staff as Vice President, Development, on November 1, 2021.
Since 2013, Herndon has worked for UNC Asheville in a variety of roles, most recently serving as Associate Vice Chancellor, External and University Relations, a leadership position with responsibility for planned giving, alumni and constituent engagement and donor relations. Herndon’s deep connections within the community, understanding of the region, extensive work with donors and legal background make her ideally suited to lead CFWNC’s development efforts.
Herndon is a graduate of Wake Forest University and Cumberland School of Law, Samford University. She is an active community member having volunteered with the Junior League of Asheville, Children’s Welfare League, Leadership Asheville, Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and others.
“CFWNC conducted an extensive search process to fill this important role, and it led us to the right person,” said CFWNC President Elizabeth Brazas. “Laura’s legal training and development background are a great fit for CFWNC’s work with donors, professional advisors and nonprofit partners. Her demonstrated commitment to service at the local, regional and statewide levels uniquely positions her for a smooth transition.”
CFWNC works with families, businesses and nonprofits to strengthen communities through the creation of charitable funds and strategic grantmaking. A permanent charitable resource, the Foundation manages over 1,200 funds and facilitated $29 million in grants last year bringing total distributions to more than $305 million since its founding in 1978. Learn more at www.cfwnc.org.
