Cordell Carter, Esq. is a distinguished leader and advocate in the fields of education/leadership development, belonging, and community engagement. As the CEO of the Carson Scholars Fund, he has dedicated his career to fostering academic excellence and providing scholarships to talented young individuals across the United States. His commitment to educational equity is further exemplified through his role as the founding director of the Aspen Institute Project on Belonging, where he champions initiatives that promote inclusivity and a sense of belonging in diverse communities. He is also the founder of the Festival of the Diaspora, a Medellin, CO based convener of leaders from across the Americas.
In January 2025, the City of Tacoma, Washington, honored Carter with a Key to the City, recognizing his significant contributions to national and global discussions surrounding belonging. This accolade reflects his influence and the impact of his work on various communities, emphasizing the importance of creating environments where individuals feel valued and accepted.
Carter’s expertise and dedication have also earned him a prestigious appointment by President Biden as a Commissioner to the President’s Commission on the White House Fellowship. In this role, he contributes to the development of future leaders by identifying and nurturing talented individuals who are committed to public service. His previous recognition by President Obama as a Champion of Change for Computer Science Education highlights his advocacy for integrating technology and computer science into education, ensuring that underserved communities have access to critical resources and opportunities.
As a sought-after speaker, Cordell Carter travels extensively, sharing his insights on belonging, education, and community development with audiences worldwide. His ability to engage and inspire diverse groups makes him a prominent voice in discussions about social progress, geopolitical strategy and acceleration of economic opportunities for all.
In addition to his leadership roles, Carter actively contributes to various organizations as a board member. He serves on the boards of Concordia, Oasis Fresh Markets, Mendoza Impact Fund, Quantum Corridor, and Orbit Capital, where he helps guide strategic initiatives that align with his mission of fostering inclusive growth and innovation. His involvement with these organizations underscores his commitment to leveraging resources and partnerships to drive positive change in communities.