Meet Director of Sales and Marketing Carol Kolenski

Carol joined the APD Lifecare team directly from her previous role as Community Relations Counselor at another local senior living community. Asked why she made the move, Carol said that she knew her predecessor, Peggy Cooper, had visited the community, and had always respected what she encountered and really liked the residents and staff. “Everyone is so happy here; it’s a welcoming place and it made an impression,” she says this impression as well as the opportunity to work for Executive Director Nikki Fortier again made the decision to join APD Lifecare an easy one.  She has been welcomed with open arms.

Carol has lived in Vermont (Quechee – Hartford area) since 1999. As a single mom with two young sons, she made her way to Vermont from NH Seacoast Syracuse because she thought it was a great place to raise kids. Her sons still live in the area, and you can find Carol with her grandchildren every Friday, so things have worked out well.

After 20+ years in sales and regional positions at Marriott and IHG, Carol had an experience that prompted her shift to working with seniors. While at IHG, a Vietnam veteran in a wheelchair stayed in one of the hotel’s long-term suites. The staff helped him in various ways, including one day taking him to his oncology appointment. During the visit, he learned he was terminally ill. He told Carol he wanted to stay where he was living as long as he could, which he did, even when he went into hospice. Carol and the team supported his wishes until the end.

During this time, Carol realized the fulfillment she felt from being helpful and supporting someone through life challenges. After the veteran passed away, his oncologist came to IHG to acknowledge the support, care and compassion Carol and her team had provided to this dying man. “People are my passion, and I am a staunch advocate for our residents and their families,” Carol says.

In her role at Harvest Hill and The Woodlands, Carol is committed to making the transition to the communities as smooth as possible, helping residents and families navigate the challenges and process. She’s the person you want in your corner when you need help with a big task.

Carol studied Sales and Marketing and Business Administration at Franklin Pierce University.  She finds joy in spending time with her sons Kyle, and Jason and his family, her partner Dale, traveling, gardening, reading, and watching documentaries. We’re glad to have Carol on the team.