Stephanie Carter leads Wallaroo’s sun-safe mission

ColoradoBiz Staff //December 1, 2025//

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Stephanie Carter is the CEO and founder of Wallaroo Hat Company, a Boulder-based, woman-owned business that has set the standard in sun-protective fashion for more than 25 years. Since founding Wallaroo in 1999, Carter has led with purpose, combining quality craftsmanship, functional design and social responsibility to build a globally recognized brand dedicated to skin cancer prevention and sustainable business practices.

Carter began her career as an attorney in the Boulder and Denver area before pursuing her entrepreneurial vision. Inspired by a trip to Australia, where sun protection is widely practiced, she introduced UPF 50+ hats to the U.S. market, well before sun safety became a mainstream concern. Today, Wallaroo’s collection for women, men and children reflects her commitment to comfort, style and environmental stewardship.

Under her leadership, Wallaroo became a Certified B Corporation in 2014, demonstrating the company’s balance of purpose and profit and its commitment to ethical sourcing, sustainability and community impact. In 2008, Carter launched a 1% donation program to support organizations dedicated to skin cancer prevention and education.

Carter’s influence extends beyond business. She serves on the board of the Headwear Association, where she made history in 2012 as the organization’s first female president. She also co-founded PridePads Africa, which provides menstrual hygiene education and supplies to women in Cameroon and serves on the boards of the Jaipur Literature Festival and Boulder Ballet.

Kerry Gilmartin, founder of Love, Plants, said Carter “exemplified exceptional leadership and deep commitment to her employees and community.”