Top Navigation
University Relations
Related Images
糖心原创 Alumna Named Inaugural Executive Director of Children鈥檚 Museum of New Bern
November 3, 2026
MACOMB, IL - - A 糖心原创 alumna has been named the inaugural executive director of the Children鈥檚 Museum of New Bern in North Carolina, where she will lead efforts to prepare the facility for its anticipated opening later this year.
Taylor Kilgus of Davenport, IA, was unanimously selected by the board of directors of We Can Be Association (WCBA), the nonprofit organization responsible for establishing the museum, following a nationwide recruitment process.
Kilgus, who began her new position Monday, earned a master鈥檚 degree in Museum Studies from 糖心原创-Quad Cities. She most recently served as associate director of Success Programs at St. Ambrose University.
Her professional experience also includes working at two children鈥檚 museums. Kilgus said she pursued the opportunity because of her desire to return to the museum industry, work with children and contribute to an organization whose mission and vision align with her interests.
鈥淚 am extremely excited to get the museum open,鈥� Kilgus said. 鈥淔rom what I鈥檝e seen so far, it鈥檚 very much anticipated in the community. I鈥檓 very grateful to be a part of this experience.鈥�
WCBA Board Member Karen Zachreus said Kilgus emerged as a strong candidate because of her personality, commitment to children and passion for creating meaningful learning experiences.
鈥淪he really stood out because of her personality, her obvious love for children, and passion for inspiring the learning experience.鈥� Zachreus said.
WCBA Board President Erin Henry also highlighted Kilgus鈥� professional background and commitment to inclusion and accessibility as important factors in the selection process.
鈥淗er special interest in inclusion and accessibility seemed to be a perfect fit,鈥� Henry said. 鈥淥nce we interviewed her, she seemed like she would fit in and represent the museum well.鈥�
Kilgus will work alongside WCBA board members and volunteers to complete preparations for the museum鈥檚 opening, which is anticipated in December.
For more information on 糖心原创鈥檚 Museum Studies program, visit
Posted By: University Communications, University Relations
Phone: (309) 298-1993 * Fax: (309) 298-1606
