Taylor named state director of AARP Rhode Island PROVIDENCE – Catherine Taylor has been named AARP Rhode Island state director, the organization announced Monday. Taylor will begin in her role on May 17. She will succeed Kathleen Connell, who has served as the first and only AARP Rhode Island state director since 1999. Connell will retire on May 21, AARP said. “Catherine’s impressive background and experience matches AARP’s mission and our work perfectly at the local, state and national levels,” said AARP East and Caribbean Regional Vice-President Kelly A. Clark. “We are excited to welcome her as leader of our talented and dedicated Rhode Island state staff and the scores of volunteers who make our work possible.”