JACKSONVILLE, Fla. October 1, 2026, Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville is pleased to welcome Elizabeth Watson as Director of Development and Taylor Ruiz as Development Manager, strengthening the organization’s development team and its efforts to engage donors, community partners and supporters in advancing its mission.
In her role as Director of Development, Watson will help lead a comprehensive fundraising program supporting the organization’s priorities and long-term goals. She will oversee strategies across major gifts, annual giving, corporate and community partnerships, planned and legacy giving, foundation relationships, special events and donor stewardship. She will also provide leadership for the organization’s affinity groups and help cultivate meaningful, long-term relationships with donors and community partners.
“Elizabeth and Taylor each bring valuable strengths to our team, and I’m excited about what they will help us accomplish together,” said Megan Weinstein, Chief Development Officer of Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville. “Our work is built on relationships, and their roles will help us continue cultivating the donors, partners and community members who make our mission possible.”
As Development Manager, Ruiz will support the organization’s fundraising initiatives and donor engagement efforts, including fundraising campaigns, special events, donor and prospect development, community engagement and volunteer involvement. She will also work collaboratively across the organization to identify new fundraising opportunities and strengthen relationships with supporters.
“We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth and Taylor to Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville,” said Joey Leik, President and CEO of Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville. “Their experience, energy and commitment to building strong relationships will be tremendous assets to our organization. As we continue to grow and look toward the future, having a strong development team is essential to ensuring we can continue providing the care and support families need while their children receive medical treatment in Jacksonville.”
The addition of Watson and Ruiz reflects Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville’s continued investment in building strong community relationships and creating sustainable support for families who rely on the House during their child’s medical journey.
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About Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville
Ronald McDonald House Jacksonville is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of children by providing lodging, meals, transportation and a community of care to critically ill children and their families who need to be near a hospital for treatment. Over the past 36 years, our staff, volunteers and community partners have provided care, comfort and kindness for over 44,600 families. For more information about our mission and programs, visit www.rmhcjacksonville.org.
For more information, please contact: Margaret Bristol: Marketing & Events Manager, Ronald McDonald House
Jacksonville Phone: (904) 807-4663 Email: mbristol@rmhcjax.org