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WIU Alumna Named Inaugural Executive Director of Children’s Museum of New Bern

November 3, 2026

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MACOMB, IL - - A Western Illinois University alumna has been named the inaugural executive director of the Children's 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's degree in Museum Studies from Western Illinois University-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's 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.

"I am extremely excited to get the museum open," Kilgus said. "From what I've seen so far, it's very much anticipated in the community. I'm very grateful to be a part of this experience."

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.

"She really stood out because of her personality, her obvious love for children, and passion for inspiring the learning experience." Zachreus said.

WCBA Board President Erin Henry also highlighted Kilgus' professional background and commitment to inclusion and accessibility as important factors in the selection process.

"Her special interest in inclusion and accessibility seemed to be a perfect fit," Henry said. "Once we interviewed her, she seemed like she would fit in and represent the museum well."

Kilgus will work alongside WCBA board members and volunteers to complete preparations for the museum's opening, which is anticipated in December.

For more information on WIU's Museum Studies program, visit http://wiu.edu/MuseumStudies

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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