Carol Sapoznik (Interior Design ’69) is the Owner of Olive Connection in Brookline, MA. Sapoznik is also the recipient of the 2017 Human Ecology Distinguished Alumni Award.
“I’m still learning and discovering every day”
For Carol Sapoznik, whether it was meeting with students at a major retailing conference in New York City or participating in SoHE speed networking, being an alumna has always meant finding ways to engage that let her both give and receive.
While a regional VP at Crate & Barrel, for example, she returned to SoHE as a guest lecturer, accompanied by designers and merchandisers. Students got an unparalleled education on how retailers create an in-store experience, and Sapoznik had the chance to recruit from among retailing’s “rising stars.”
Similarly, her serving on the Retailing Task Force for the Kohl’s Center for Retailing gave SoHE the benefit of her experience, insider expertise, and industry connections. At the same time, Sapoznik saw personal and professional benefit: “These were my colleagues in the retail sector, so it was great for my own development and interests.
That relationship continues today as Sapoznik continues to advise the Center while managing her own product lines and a gourmet food boutique, Olive Connection. This April, she provided SoHE’s matching gift for UW’s first Day of the Badger fundraising campaign.
“For me, it’s part of my continual education — a way to connect with people in the field and still be a part of what’s happening.”