Global advocate Jody Cole to speak at Converse Founder’s Day Celebration

Entrepreneur, philanthropist, global advocate, and 1984 graduate Jody Cole will be the 2026 Founder’s Day keynote speaker at Converse University on Friday, April 24. This annual event bridges both past and present as the campus community celebrates graduating seniors and Converse alumni, who are visiting for Reunion Weekend.

Cole’s life’s work has been guided by a deep commitment to service, human rights and conservation. She is the founder and owner of Wild Rainbow African Safaris, where for nearly three decades she has designed and led private, custom safari experiences across Africa, building a business rooted in connection, integrity, and transformative travel.

“We are honored to have Jody Cole as this year’s Founder’s Day speaker,” said Converse President Dr. Boone J. Hopkins. “Her commitment to others and her passion for adventure remind us that the most meaningful journeys are not just about where we go, but how we are changed along the way – which truly captures the spirit of Converse’s mission and vision.”

In addition to helping others experience the adventure of a lifetime through Wild Rainbow African Safaris, Cole is also the founder of Women in Safari Excellence (WISE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing women in the safari industry. Through mentorship, training and community-building initiatives, WISE is expanding access and creating meaningful opportunities for women in a field that has historically been male-dominated. Today, this work represents a central focus of Cole’s professional and philanthropic efforts.

Throughout her career, Cole has held numerous leadership and advisory roles with organizations focused on advocacy, community development and social impact. She has led major fundraising initiatives, supported mission-driven organizations and remains actively engaged in service work that reflects her lifelong commitment to helping others. She currently serves on the Board of Visitors for Converse University and was the 2024 recipient of the Mae Elizabeth Kilgo Spirit of Converse Award.

An adventurer at heart, Cole has twice summited Mount Kilimanjaro and has participated in wildlife conservation and research efforts around the world, including years of hands-on work in animal care and rehabilitation. She was one of the first American women certified by the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa and has been nominated for Safari Guide of the Year.

Grounded in the philosophy of Ubuntu — “I am because we are” — Cole’s work reflects her belief in the interconnectedness of people, communities, and the natural world. Whether through her leadership, philanthropy, or time in the field, she continues to inspire others to live with purpose, compassion and a sense of responsibility to something greater than themselves.

Converse University’s annual Founder’s Day ceremony includes a procession of the senior class, faculty, and platform party. During the ceremony, the university honors the faculty recipient of the Katheryn Amelia Brown Award. The celebration continues with a traditional Founders Day lunch outside of Wilson Hall on the Johnson Plaza, including Dexter Edgar Converse’s favorite dessert, strawberries and cream. The event is live-streamed to include the Converse community both near and far; details can be found on the Founder’s Day webpage.

About Converse University

Converse University is a dynamic institution driven by innovation and a deep commitment to community. Founded in 1889 by visionary citizens of Spartanburg, South Carolina, Converse was established to expand educational access and opportunity—originally for women, and since 2020, for all undergraduate students. Today, Converse encompasses the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Business and Data Science, the School of the Arts, The Graduate School, and Converse College for Women. Across all disciplines, students are empowered to become transformative leaders who see clearly, decide wisely, and act justly. Through a blend of deep scholarship, transformative mentorship, experiential learning, and a culture of mutual support, Converse cultivates not only knowledge and creativity, but also the professional and technical skills essential for success in a rapidly evolving world. Rooted in its community and always looking ahead, Converse is committed to shaping graduates who lead change and uplift others.