Remembering Former First Lady Rosalynn Carter
On November 19, 2023, the world lost an incredible advocate for mental health, and Skyland Trail lost a dear friend, former First Lady Rosalynn Carter.
Mrs. Carter was a driving force in the field of mental health for more than four decades. Mrs. Carter was a member of the Georgia Governor's Commission to Improve Services to the Mentally and Emotionally Handicapped in the early 1970s. In 1980, she helped bring about passage of the Mental Health Systems Act of 1980 during President Carter's administration.
For over 30 years she hosted the annual Rosalynn Carter Symposium on Mental Health Policy, which brings together representatives of mental health organizations nationwide to focus and coordinate their efforts on key issues. She instituted the annual Georgia Mental Health Forum for professionals and consumers, which convened for the 27th time in 2023.
She launched the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism, co-authored several award-winning books, and received honors and awards for her support of mental health causes. She was an honorary fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, and in 1999, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Learn more about Rosalynn Carter on the official tribute page from The Carter Center.
"It was an honor to have worked with and known Mrs. Carter. Her legacy of kindness and compassion for people from all walks of life, particularly those who face suffering, is truly an inspiration. My thoughts are with the entire Carter family."
Beth Finnerty, Skyland Trail President and CEO
Rosalynn Carter and Skyland Trail
Mrs. Carter was a friend of Skyland Trail and an important part of our history. View the photo gallery below to learn more about her involvement and support of Skyland Trail.
