Cayce Elementary Assistant Principal Dr. Ashley Caulder will take the national stage this week, representing South Carolina as Mrs. South Carolina American in the Mrs. American competition.

For Dr. Caulder, the opportunity to represent South Carolina carries a meaning far beyond the crown. She is competing in honor and memory of her late mother, who passed away from pancreatic cancer last year. Dr. Caulder founded My Mother’s Mission, a Bible study group where grieving women can find connection, hope, and community. 

Through her journey, Dr. Caulder hopes to honor her mother’s legacy while bringing greater awareness to pancreatic cancer. Her story is one of perseverance, purpose and using a personal platform to make a difference in the lives of others.

At Cayce Elementary, Dr. Caulder serves students, families and staff each day as assistant principal. Her commitment to supporting and encouraging children extends beyond the walls of the school, and the Cayce Elementary Griffins community is proud to cheer her on as she represents South Carolina on the national stage.

“This moment is about so much more than a crown,” Dr. Caulder said. “I want to show our young Griffins what it looks like to lead with purpose, turn something close to your heart into something meaningful, and use your voice to make a difference.”

Dr. Caulder will compete for the title of Mrs. American on September 2.