Executive Director

Liz Baysden has been directing early childhood centers for 20+ years, and has previously taught in preschool classrooms. Her degrees include a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business, with a concentration in marketing, from Winthrop University. She recently completed ECD 101 and received a Director’s Credential in 2019. The Champions Center recruited Liz in 2012 to lead their expansion of services and vision for the future. Liz believes in giving every child the opportunity to reach their full potential. She works to give children the tools they need to thrive - focusing on their strengths and not their challenges. Liz serves on the “Wholespire” Coalition through United Way of Anderson County and also serves on the NAPSACC Nation Advisory Group that aids in improving childcare environments that foster healthy eating, physical activity, and overall development in children. She was also named “Nonprofit Director of the Year” by the Anderson Area Chamber of Commerce in 2022. Liz is “MOM” to an adult daughter, twin teenage boys and “Nana” to one granddaughter.

Director of Marketing and Development

Laura Capell worked in corporate marketing before her heart led her to the nonprofit sector.  For the nine years prior to joining The Champions Center, she worked with a human service agency in the areas of volunteer management, operations management, marketing and resource development. Laura joined the team in 2016 with a goal of making a tangible difference in the lives of The Champions Center’s children and families. Laura is an Anderson native.  She attended TL Hanna High School and Anderson College.  She is a graduate of the Nonprofit Leadership Institute at Francis Marion University, the Carolina Academy of Nonprofit Leaders in Columbia, SC and Leadership Anderson Class 25. Laura serves on several other local nonprofit boards and advisory committees.  Laura and husband, Chris, have 2 adult daughters and one granddaughter.

Program Director

April Brown joins our team with over 27 years experience working with children. She has enjoyed roles as a Childcare Director and Owner as well as a Pre-school and 3rd grade classroom teacher. She is an Anderson native and attended Westside High School. She earned degrees in Early Childhood Education from Tri County Technical College and Southern Wesleyan University. April has a passion for helping children and families overcome challenges. Her positive energy and common-sense approach is compliment to our mission of helping special children thrive. April is married to Rev. Jarvis Brown, is the mother of 3 boys and “Meme” to 2 grandsons.

Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors, formally established when The Champions Center became a non-profit in 2010, governs all policies and guidelines for the Center. Consisting of parents, professionals, and community stakeholders, our Board is dedicated to the care and promotion of children and families with special needs.

 

Cassie Skelton - Vice Chair

Alumni Parent

Renee Fields-York - Secretary
First Citizens Bank

Mike Asher
Michelin

Bill Wires - Board Chair

Michelin

Samantha Evans - Treasurer
Anmed Health

Dr. Matthew Bradshaw
Anmed Pediatric Associates

Jennifer DeWeil
NewSpring Church

Mike Rippy
Grace Episcopal Church

Service Providers

 

  • Ahead Start

  • Bright Start

  • Promising Futures

  • Tri County Therapy

  • SC First Steps

  • Babynet

  • SCDDSN – SC Department of Disabilities & Special Needs

 

Partner Organizations

 
 

Corporate Partners

 
 

Community Partners

  • Boulevard Baptist Church

  • Grace Episcopal Church

  • NewSpring Church

  • Young Memorial ARP Church

Furry Friend & Supporter - “Gracie”

Gracie was born on December 9, 2018, and is a Great Pyrenees/Anatolian.  She’s a huge pup with a huge heart!  Gracie is an ambassador for The Champions Center. She makes visits to The Champions Center to meet new friends and get lots of hugs and love.