WAKE FOREST, NC – Following an exhaustive search, the Town of Wake Forest is pleased to announce Brian Harrell as the new Director of the Wake Forest Center for Active Aging (WFCAA). His first day was Monday, June 8.
As WFCAA Director, Brian is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the WFCAA, advancing its mission to enhance the lives of older adults in the Wake Forest community. He will lead efforts to foster innovation, inclusion, and excellence in aging services while cultivating strong partnerships with local, regional, and statewide stakeholders. His leadership will guide the center’s growth, ensure alignment with Town goals, and create meaningful, wellness-focused experiences for older adults.
Born and raised in Greenville, NC, Brian graduated from East Carolina University in 2004 with a bachelor’s degree in Therapeutic Recreation. In 2014 he earned a master’s in public administration from Villanova University.
Brian’s professional career began in 2006 as a Recreation Assistant with the City of Greenville where he developed and implemented special population programs and managed Special Olympics.
In 2008 he began working with the City of Rocky Mount as a Community Recreation Manager. Over the next nine years he managed several community centers, summer youth programs, afterschool programs, special populations programs, and Special Olympics programming. From 2017-2026 he served as Senior Center Manager where he directed the Rocky Mount Senior Center and its grant management program, along with its National Council on Aging Senior Center Accreditation program and outdoor seasonal pool.
“Brian brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in parks, recreation, and senior services, including extensive experience managing active aging programs, staff, facilities, budgets, community partnerships, and strategic initiatives for the City of Rocky Mount,” said Assistant Town Manager Candace Davis.
“Throughout the recruitment and assessment process, Brian demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing quality of life for older adults, fostering inclusive and engaging programming, building collaborative partnerships, and supporting organizational excellence. His combination of municipal leadership experience, operational expertise, and public administration knowledge positions him well to lead the continued growth and evolution of WFCAA as a premier resource for older adults in the Wake Forest community.”
Brian is the proud father of Emmanuel, 23, Noah, 8, and Gabriel, 4, and two dogs – Maddy and Daisy. When he’s not working and spending time with his family, he enjoys participating in CrossFit and Hyrox races.
To reach Brian, call 919-554-4111 or email bharrell@wakeforestnc.gov.