Kelsey Sawyer Carter
Co-Founder and Executive Director
Kelsey Sawyer Carter has always had a passion for summer camp, especially after she and her brother Cole, who was diagnosed with cancer in 2004, shared a transformative experience that inspired the creation of Camp Cole.
Along with their parents, Kelsey and Cole took part in a diagnosis-specific camp that connected them with other families facing similar challenges. They created memories that fueled her passion for helping others and laid the groundwork for her future.
Kelsey followed her interests to the University of South Carolina, where she earned an honors degree in education. After graduation, she worked as an elementary teacher in Dallas, Texas, before returning to Columbia to kick-start the origins of Camp Cole.
Kelsey is married to Ben Carter and the mom of two precious boys.
Favorite Camp Activity: Swimming
Favorite Camp Food: Chicken Fingers
Dream Destination: Iceland