The Carter Family
About Ben Carter
Benjamin “Ben” Carter was a commercial real estate developer whose career spanned more than four decades. He began his professional life working with his father at Carter & Associates as an industrial broker and later founded Ben Carter Properties with a small group of partners.
Over the course of his career, he led the development of more than five million square feet of mixed‑use projects across the Southeast, from initial site selection and master planning through project completion. His work included developments such as The Mall of Georgia and St. John’s Town Center in Jacksonville, Florida.
Carter was widely regarded as a pioneer of lifestyle centers, creating open‑air “people places” designed to serve as community gathering spaces. His work reflected a strong attention to history and place, and he was a catalyst for the Streets of Buckhead redevelopment in Atlanta.
Ben Carter passed away on September 15, 2024, at the age of 70, leaving a legacy defined by visionary development, integrity, and a deep commitment to people, place, and community.
The Carter Family's Legacy
In addition to his professional career, Carter founded and supported the Carter Real Estate Center at the College of Charleston, which was attended by both of his children, Palmer and Benjamin, Jr. Established in 2006 by Carter, his wife Tricia, and his mother Jane Middleton Carter, the Center is housed within the School of Business and prepares students for careers in real estate. He and Tricia also served on the College of Charleston Parent Advisory Council.
Together, the Carters supported the College through funding initiatives, including the Angel Oak Scholarships in Real Estate and the Angel Oak Award Fund, which benefited School of Business students who demonstrated passion and expertise in real estate coursework.
The Angel Oak is most famous and has thrived for hundreds of years – much like the College of Charleston. The oak tree’s canopy protects those that are under it, and its seeds spread its lineage. It is my hope the Angel Oak Scholarships will provide support, foster inspiration and encourage new growth among its student recipients. – Ben Carter, 1953-2024