Carrie L. (she/her) joined Seward Co-op just over a year ago while settling into life in the Twin Cities. New to the area, she was looking for a workplace that felt welcoming, community-centered, and connected to food. Seward Co-op turned out to be exactly that.
Carrie began as a Barista, then moved into the role of Cheese Rebuyer, before stepping into her current position as the Franklin store’s Deli Manager. Her path reflects her curiosity and deep experience with food, something that’s been part of her life since childhood; it has long been a source of creativity and connection for her. She spent her early years cooking alongside her nana and, in high school, enjoyed watching PBS cooking shows. Outside of work, Carrie cooks as an outlet and has hosted popup meals in other cities she’s lived in. When she’s not in the kitchen, you might find her foraging for in-season delicacies, enjoying live music, fishing, or playing basketball.
What stands out most to Carrie about working at Seward Co-op is the people. “I love the staff here at [Seward] Co-op, and I love interacting with our customers,” she shares. “It’s a varied community of individuals who genuinely care about and invest in one another.” Her role at Seward Coop integrates all her past work experiences, including teaching elementary school, farming, and working in restaurants. “I get to share and teach culinary skills I’ve learned in my career, interact, and provide a service and delicious food to the community with food being sourced largely from local farmers. I mean come on… Boom! That’s work with value.”
Carrie is still learning how Seward Co-op and its community impact one another, but she’s already felt inspired by the solidarity and care she’s witnessed in recent months. As spring rolls in, she’s especially excited for seasonal menu changes in the Deli and Bakery, and for more sunshine and green to return outdoors.
