Board of Directors

Carolyn Hemingway is a devoted mother and a longstanding advocate for the Racepath community. Her commitment to service spans decades, during which she held the role of Secretary for the Racepath Community Association. Following the passing of Rev. Gause in February 2023, Carolyn took on the leadership mantle as President of Phoenix Renaissance Inc., continuing its mission to uplift and support the community.

Her dedication and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on Racepath, making her a pillar of strength and inspiration for those around her.

Dr. Mary Clayton Leiter is a trailblazer in education, community service, and leadership. As the co-founder, teacher, and director of the Neighborhood House at the Race Path Community Learning Center (1973–1976), she made a lasting impact on the Race Path community by enhancing educational access and opportunities.

Dr. Leiter holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Early Literacy Development and Education from the University of South Carolina (with honors), a Master of Education in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University (with honors), and a Bachelor of Science from the New York School for School Research. She has also completed advanced studies at the Reggio Emilia Institute in Italy and the Scandinavian Seminar in Denmark.

Certified as a Leadership and Conflict Resolution Specialist and a Developmental Therapist, Dr. Leiter has held key academic roles, including Department Chair and Full Professor at the University of South Carolina Upstate, Director and Professor at Brunswick County College, and faculty member at Horry Georgetown Technical College.

Her scholarly contributions include the dissertation Who Are Our Nation’s Future Teachers? A Study of Self-Concepts of Beginning Education Students, co-authoring Transforming Schools Together, and numerous articles advocating innovative teaching methods.

Dr. Leiter’s commitment to service is reflected in her numerous awards, including the Champions for Children Award, the South Carolina Regional Award for Continuing Higher Education, and a National Award for Outstanding Child Development Program by the U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Command. She has also served as a Guardian ad Litem and was President of the Myrtle Beach Montessori Board.

Married to Attorney John Leiter, Dr. Leiter’s legacy is defined by her unwavering dedication to transforming education and empowering communities.

Peter has been a proud Myrtle Beach resident for 19 years and currently serves as a dedicated team member at the Meher Spiritual Center. With over a decade of experience in sales, marketing, and guest services at WonderWorks Myrtle Beach, Peter brings a wealth of expertise to his work. He also volunteers as a board member for SC Smiles Dental and is a proud graduate of Leadership Grand Strand, Class 36. A former ambassador for the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce, Peter is passionate about giving back to his community. As a volunteer with Phoenix Renaissance, he is committed to making Myrtle Beach an even better place to live.