Development Director
[email protected]
(703) 879-3817
Carolyn Shields is the Director of Development at the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. She leads fundraising efforts to support mesothelioma research, patient services, and community education. She works closely with donors, sponsors, and grant partners to secure sustainable funding for the Foundation’s critical programs.
Carolyn began her career in development in 2014, working in Annual Giving within higher education before coming to the Foundation in 2023. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and Management from Drury University and an MBA from Xavier University. Her professional background informs a strategic, relationship-driven approach to fundraising, grounded in strong stewardship, thoughtful communication, and long-term impact.
Her commitment to the mesothelioma community is deeply personal. With two family members diagnosed with mesothelioma and experience supporting loved ones in caregiving roles, Carolyn understands the uncertainty and strain that often accompany a diagnosis and treatment. She is driven by a desire to reduce those unknowns by ensuring patients and families can access expert care, clinical trials, trusted information, and a supportive community through the Meso Foundation. Through her work, she is dedicated to helping create hope for every patient and family we serve.
Carolyn lives in the Dallas–Fort Worth area with her husband, son, and their Airedale terrier. Outside of work, she can usually be found chasing her toddler around the house, enjoying Tex-Mex, and spending time with family near and far.