With the start of the new academic year, William Peace University welcomed seven new members to the Board of Trustees, including two new ex-officio members. They bring additional knowledge and expertise to a highly capable and effective group.
President Lynn Morton said Peace is fortunate to have such a forward-looking Board, particularly at a time when higher education demands innovation.
“Historically, Peace has always evolved to meet the changing needs of students,” she said. “Our Board understands the importance of remaining true to our values and foundational mission while also providing support as we grow and progress. Both perspectives are needed, and we have those in abundance on our Board.”
Incoming Chair Rob Wood, an employment attorney with USI Insurance Services, describes the Board as dynamic and strategic, saying the Trustees bring diverse experiences and skills to the table.
“Our members have successful careers in business, law, public service, economic development, healthcare, non-profits – you name it,” said Wood. “They are always eager to learn more about Peace and higher education and help the University any way they can.”
Wood, who has served on the Board since 2018, said the new Trustees have been eager to get up to speed and do their part.
“Even Trustees who have had no prior experience with Peace quickly fall in love with it and seek out ways to further our mission of expanding access to transformational educational experiences,” said Wood.
According to Wood, the Board members hold leadership roles throughout Raleigh and are invested in its progress, which in turn makes them well equipped to maximize Peace’s downtown location.
“They care deeply about Raleigh’s development and how Peace can and should play a key role in its continued success,” said Wood. “The higher education landscape in this city is so vibrant and universities like Peace ensure there is a place for everyone to further their education and careers in such an exciting, growing area.”
Wood affirmed the Board’s eagerness to guide Peace through an exciting time of growth and evolution.
“We are all committed to ensuring that Peace is a place where tradition, community, and innovation combine to provide exceptional educational experiences and career outcomes for our students,” said Wood.
About the Board of Trustees
William Peace University’s strategic initiatives and policies are overseen by the Board of Trustees and implemented in partnership with the president and the Senior Leadership Team (SLT). In 2025–26, the Board will also lead the search for a new president to succeed Lynn Morton, who is serving for a two-year term and will step down in 2026, while supporting a smooth leadership transition.
New Board of Trustee Members for 2025-28
- Ashton Smith Fisher, Director of Corporate and Community Engagement, Capitol Broadcasting Company
- MaryAnne Gangoy, CEO and Founder, Gangoy Consulting Group
- Wayne Maiorano, Partner at Smith Anderson
- Lynn Minges ’80, President & CEO, North Carolina Restaurant & Lodging Association
- Gale Wilkins ’11, President, Project Arrow; Peace Alumni Board Member
- Rev. Dr. Tara Bulger (Ex-Officio) – Senior Pastor of First Presbyterian Church (not pictured in photo)
- Talise Fulmore ’11 (Ex-Officio) – Technical Services Engineer III for CentralSquare Technologies; Peace Alumni Board President
