Carol Ann (Adams) May, 76, passed away on August 10, 2021. She graduated with a B.A. in Psychology, Magna Cum Laude from ASU; M.A. in Education, Summa Cum Laude, Northern Arizona University; M.C. Professional Degree in Counseling Psychology, Magna Cum Laude,  ASU.



In 1985, Carol joined her husband, James, at Wisdom Natural Brands (now in Gilbert, Arizona) and together they built an international company doing business in over 50 countries. She became Chief Executive Officer and Chair, Board of Directors of Wisdom Natural Brands (makers of SweetLeaf Sweeteners).



Carol has been recognized with five international Stevie Awards for Women in Business in both 2014 and 2015, (including Lifetime Achievement, Entrepreneur of the Year, Executive of the Year in Business, Lifetime Achievement and Entrepreneur of the Year in Consumer Products). Carol was named one of the Top Women in Grocery in 2013 by Progressive Grocer Magazine, to the ASU Sun Devil 100 during 2017 and 2019, and into the ASU President's Club in 2019. Carol was inducted (with her husband) into the prestigious Natural Products Industry Hall of Legends in 2016. She was recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Women in Arizona by AZ Business Magazine in 2015, and one of the Most Admired Leaders of Arizona in 2019.



As an ambassador for health and wellness, Carol enjoyed participating in the Dean's Council of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences at ASU, and partnering with their Department of Psychology in developing prevention research pertaining to the intake of dietary sugars in order to reduce cardiovascular risk. Carol served on the American Heart Association's Industry Nutrition Advisory Forum. She represented her company in the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and served on the Board of Directors in the East Valley Partnership. In the past, she has served as a member of the Calorie Control Council and the Women's Alliance, both international groups, and has been active in state and regional programs for children and families, as well as children's hospitals.



Carol focused on improving the quality of life for others. She had a love of family history and was a member of the Arizona State Genealogy Association. Her commitment to family, company, and community were tireless. Over the years, Carol served on the ASU Psychology for Life Advisory Board; Banner Health, Pediatric Advisory Council; Regional Advisory Board on Metabolic Testing of Infants; Advisory Board to the AZ Department of Education on Chronically Ill Children; Member of the Advisory Board to AZ Department of Health (Children's Division); Member of Maricopa County Medical Society committee on Pediatrics; Advisory Board for the Food and Beverage Industry; Member in the Organization of Women in International Trade; Member of the American Herbal Products Association; Member of the Institute of Food Technology and the National Specialty Food Association; and in various volunteer positions in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.



Carol is survived by two sons, two daughters and seven grandchildren. A celebration of her life and legacy was held on August 16, 2021. A graveside service followed at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery, Phoenix AZ. (Source: ASU Foundation)