Entering the newly renovated Campus Store, visitors will encounter a broader range of merchandise and may be welcomed by Karla Gibbs, who serves as director of retail operations. The store now offers items such as apparel, gifts, and products created by students.
Gibbs is featured in the latest “Meet Your New Colleagues” profile. She is the first to be highlighted in both English and Spanish, which she says allows her to connect more closely with Hispanic students and their families.
“The truth is that being director of retail operations for the SBU Campus Store is not really a job,” said Gibbs. “I love it here and what I love most is trying to bring a feeling of warmth and hospitality to every person coming to this store. Yes, I want to sell everything here but this is not just a retail business for me. I want the students and their families to take home a beautiful memory of this place. I want them to feel something. And to know we care about and respect them. That’s my idea for this place.”
More information about Gibbs’ story can be found in both English and Spanish.
— Ellen Cooke
