Next time you鈥檙e on the road, make a stop at an alumni-owned business
Shop Sustainably: The chic merchandise at Seven Sisters鈥攕low fashion, homewares, apothecary items, and pantry goods鈥攊s ethically produced by small-batch makers from around the world. Inspired by her previous work in art museums, founder and owner Jillian Punska 鈥00 curates her collection with an eye toward simplifying shopping for customers who want to support independent brands and artists.
in Portland, Oregon
Raise a Glass: Bohemian Village, owned by Silas Luster 鈥07, is more than just a cozy cafe offering cold-pressed juices, smoothies, hand-crafted teas, and other healthy vegan fare. It presents itself as an 鈥渆xperience space,鈥 helping confront long-standing dietary health issues within the African American community. Toward that goal, the book-and-artwork-lined eatery also hosts wellness discussions and events.
in East Chattanooga, Tennessee
Get Fit: Founded by Melissa (Manseau) Martin 鈥00, a multi-credentialed instructor and former two-time All-American field hockey player at Bryant University, Downdog studio offers beginner through advanced classes in yoga, Pilates, and barre, as well as personal coaching and fitness training, all guided by a mission 鈥渢o spread the love and passion of yoga and fitness, and serve the community.鈥
in Bedford, New Hampshire
Treat Yourself: When Hurricane Sandy destroyed her home and bakery equipment in 2013, Jana (Kotowski) D鈥橝gostino 鈥00 and her husband, Russ, decided it was time to follow their dream of creating a dessert business on wheels. Today, the Sweet Cravings food truck brings its spectacular cupcakes, milkshakes, sundaes, cannoli, and other treats to private and community events from Miami to Port St. Lucie.
in South Florida