As Signal Centers continues to grow its local and statewide presence, the organization is making an investment in the power of communication and connection.
The nonprofit is expanding its marketing and development executive staff by two with the appointment of Taylor Bostwick as chief marketing officer and Summer Simmons as chief development officer.
Officials said, :This move will ensure more citizens across the state are aware of the crucial resources available to them, build stronger relationships to fill community gaps, and invite more supporters to join in growing the agency’s impact."
“This change is about helping people see themselves in our mission,” said Donna McConnico, CEO of Signal Centers. “With Taylor and Summer joining forces, we’ll amplify our voice and deepen connections, building even stronger support for the life-changing work transforming the communities we serve.”
She added, "The expanded leadership structure from 17 executives in 2024 to 21 in 2025 reflects the growing complexity and scope of Signal Centers’ programs and will position the nonprofit for the future. What began in 1957 as a single classroom of nine children with cerebral palsy currently benefits tens of thousands of Tennesseans. Following its merger with The Speech and Hearing Center last year, the organization now operates 13 distinct programs with over 400 staff members."
As chief marketing officer, Ms. Bostwick provides strategic planning and management of Signal Centers’ comprehensive communication efforts and public image. She brings more than a decade of marketing and leadership experience and was most recently the president and CEO of The Speech & Hearing Center, which merged with Signal Centers in July 2024. Prior to that she was the marketing director of Hamilton Place for CBL Properties and has also worked as an account executive at Waterhouse Public Relations, in corporate communications at Unum and as the head of marketing at Papercut Interactive.
Ms. Bostwick holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication/Public Relations from East Tennessee State University.
As chief development officer, Ms. Simmons leads all fundraising efforts.
She brings over 15 years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, and nonprofit leadership to the position. Simmons’ recent tenure as chief development officer for the Chattanooga Area Food Bank equipped her with deep insight into what inspires donors and fuels lasting support. She has also served in leadership roles with Camelot Care, Omni Visions, and Youth Villages. Simmons earned her B.S. in Child and Family Studies from East Tennessee State University and her M.S. in Human Service Counseling from Liberty University.