Global Advocate Jody Cole ’84 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 celebration 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.”
“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.”
Dr. Boone J. Hopkins
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.
An adventurer at heart, Cole has twice summited Mount Kilimanjaro and has participated in wildlife conservation and research efforts around the world.
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 on Converse’s YouTube channel to include the Converse community both near and far; more details can be found on the Founder’s Day webpage.