Our Board

Sandy Ransom is the grandmother of Karson Whitesell. She felt it was part of her call as grandmother always to provide spiritual counsel to Karson. Their discussions over things such as “what heaven would look like,” or “what the bible says about discrimination,” and “how everyone is a child of God to be loved and respected” helped strengthen Karson’s faith. She loved how Karson had a sense for the underdog, the underloved, or the misunderstood and would try to set things right. She was most proud of the tender, and compassionate heart Karson had as she sought to be Christ in the world. Sandy’s Christian faith has called her to serve in many capacities in her local church and denomination. Her spiritual gift for administration enables her to lead groups in a variety of ministerial programs. Sandy has served as Chairperson of her church’s Administrative Council for many years.

Jim Ransom is a Director of Karson’s Kompassion Project. He is Karson Whitesell’s Grandfather (G-dad) and marveled as he saw her passion develop to help others less fortunate, particularly young children. Jim has worked in various roles with non-profit entities. He has served as Treasurer of one organization for over fifteen years. He is currently the President and board member of an HOA organization. He is the managing director of three business Corporations. Jim has been involved since Karson’s death in developing a way to remember Karson’s life and looks forward to continue carrying out the projects that she was passionate about.

Bio coming soon!

Garrick works full-time as a senior mortgage loan officer with Bank of America and has been with this company for the last 13 years. In his previous work with the mortgage and banking industry, he was able to volunteer in the local schools teaching children about the importance of savings and money. He is a member of Transformation Church in Indian Land. Garrick spends most of his free time with his wife, Jessica, and their two children, Kendall and Jared, when he is, of course, not watching Duke basketball or Dallas Cowboys football. Garrick is excited about his role as a board member with Karsons Kompassion Project. He enjoys the work he does in his “day job” but loves to give back to his community, and bonus- he loves working with Debbie and his mother-in-law, Janet! Fun fact- Debbie planned Garrick and Jessica’s wedding in 2009!

Rachel Ness was born and raised in Africa. She is the daughter of missionaries who work with Wycliffe Bible Translators. Her childhood was impacted by her years of growing up in a village in Cameroon, and her worldview has been shaped by a life far different from most. After graduating from Winthrop University with a degree in Social Work, Rachel worked for several years in Foster Care and Adoptions. She and her husband, Erik (also a child of Wycliffe missionaries), later returned to Africa as a family and worked in Kenya and Tanzania for over 12 years. Their ministry focus was mentorship, community development, and farming initiatives. They have three children, and when in the USA, call Rock Hill home. Rachel currently works as a Real Estate agent, and Erik runs a home remodeling business. They are active participants in their home church, Hope Fellowship, and are content to serve the Lord in whatever capacity God allows them.

Bio coming soon!

Kristina was born in Pennsylvania and moved to South Carolina nine years ago. She has served as a high school English teacher since she migrated, and her biggest passion is building meaningful connections with her students. She and her husband have been foster parents for over five years and have children of all different ages in and out of their home. Kristina has an adopted daughter Jamie (Jamie was their first-ever foster placement), and a biological son, Kayson. She has a huge heart for the foster and adoptive community, and she co-hosts a foster and adoption podcast called What They’re Worth. Kristina and her family are members of Hope Fellowship Church in Rock Hill, SC.

Bio Coming Soon!