Wilmington Renaissance Corporation (WRC) announced on Monday that Dr. Carrie Gray will resign as managing director this month after serving the organization for two decades.

"WRC and Wilmington would not be what they are today without the leadership and incredible commitment of Carrie Gray," said Glenn Moore, board chair of WRC. "She worked tirelessly to make Wilmington a better place and she led the efforts to strengthen and transform WRC into a high-performing organization. We will be forever indebted to her, we will miss her and we wish her only the best as she makes this career transition."

Gray started her career at WRC in 1998 as communications manager. After holding a number of other positions in the organization, the board appointed her managing director in 2005.

Under her leadership, WRC presided over the redevelopment of lower Market Street and the creation of Wilmington's Creative District.

"I cannot say enough how much the last 20 years of service to WRC has meant to me both personally and professionally," said Gray. "I know I am leaving WRC not only in a better position than when I stepped into the managing director's role in 2005, but also in the hands of a dedicated staff and board who will take the organization to the next level."

Gray has accepted the position of assistant professor and chair of the Doctor of Business Administration Program at Wilmington University. Her last day with WRC will be June 22.

WRC plans to form a search committee to find the next managing director. Former WRC board member and current employee, Tim McLaughlin, will hold the position in the interim.