Blog | From the CEO: Center Poised for Future Impact

Ambassador (ret.) Mary Ann Peters is the chief executive officer of The Carter Center.

Carter Center founders Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter have been an inspiration for our work for more than three decades. With President Carter’s recent announcement that he is in treatment for melanoma, many of our friends have asked what the plans are for Carter Center programs without the Carters.

Through their leadership, the Carters have built an institution prepared to continue waging peace, fighting disease, and building hope for millions of the world’s poorest people into the distant future. For years, President and Mrs. Carter have been mindful of securing a long-term, sustainable future for this unique institution.

Since its founding in 1982, the Center has grown into a respected force for good around the world. A seasoned board of trustees, now chaired by President and Mrs. Carter’s grandson Jason Carter, is in place to govern the Center. A healthy financial endowment continues to grow. Our programs have a track record of achievement and global impact. And we have a devoted base of financial and program supporters who are deeply invested in our ongoing mission.

When the Carter Center’s headquarters was built in an Atlanta park in the mid-1980s, no one knew the global impact the organization would someday have. (Photo: The Carter Center)

Our successes have created more opportunities for our mission. Our renowned experts in international affairs and global health bring their skills and passion to programs that are saving lives, changing mindsets, and reshaping what is possible in many developing countries where hope has long been elusive.

As the former president and first lady continue to show us all how to live a life of purpose and immeasurable impact, we know that when they are no longer active, their mission—of peace and human rights for all—will endure through the dynamic living legacy of The Carter Center, bringing their bright light of hope to the world’s least fortunate people for many decades to come.