Since joining M Creative in 2003, Mary has directed successful strategy and creative development initiatives for local, state and regional nonprofit clients including The Winston Salem Foundation, Davidson-Davie Community College, Arbor Acres, Ravenscroft School, Family Services, Second Harvest Food Bank, and UNC Rockingham Health Care. Mary is one of the five founding members of The Women’s Fund of Winston-Salem, a philanthropic community of over 800 female philanthropists who provide grants to local programs and initiatives that address the root causes of social issues impacting women and girls in Forsyth County. She has also been involved in local and statewide efforts around LGBTQ issues, including marriage equality and most recently, HB2. Mary is an undergraduate of Hiram College in Hiram, Ohio and has her Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology from Kent State University. Mary is a native of Pittsburgh, PA and lives on a retired dairy farm in Davie County with Starr, her partner of 21 years.

Dr. Wilkins is a native of Winston Salem and grew up in the Boston Thurmond community area. Paula has fond memories of attending Walkertown Elementary and Middle Schools and graduating from Carver High School.

Dr. Wilkins earned a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina Central University, a master of arts in teaching from Wake Forest University, a master’s degree in educational leadership and an education specialist degree from Appalachian State University, and a doctorate in education from Gardner-Webb University.

Prior to beginning as Principal/Executive Director at Cook Literacy Model School, she led Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools’ professional development and recruiting efforts as Human Resources’ Director of Talent and Professional Development. In this role, Wilkins directed the district’s professional development for all departments. She was also in charge of recruiting talented employees for the entire district. Before becoming Director of Talent and Professional Development, Dr. Wilkins was WSFCS’ Program Manager for Gifted and Advanced Learning.

Paula has served in a range of roles as an educator, starting as an AP U.S. History teacher at Carver High School, a curriculum facilitator in Guilford County Schools, and the program coordinator for Single School Culture in WSFCS.

Dr. Wilkins is most excited and passionate about her current work in direct support of students at Cook Literacy Model School where the motto at the school is to help everyone know and believe that, “You CAN succeed because we WILL lead, educate, and empower you!” Students here this every day and all adults strive to support our CLMS students to actualize this motto.