By Luke Maguire ’19
Sean Clarke ’97, Jill (Clarke) Fotiades ’93, and Michael Fotiades ’92, of Clarke Distribution Corporation, believe deeply in the value of the liberal arts education they received at Assumption. Their esteem for the Assumption academic tradition runs so deeply in their family that they often seek Assumption students for their internship program.
“While we typically search for accounting students, what we are really looking for is a student who offers liberal arts skills: one who can think critically, work as a team member, and communicate well with a desire to learn and grow,” said Michael Fotiades. “Through this program, which began six years ago, we have had multiple interns, two of whom have become full-time employees. We are proud to offer an opportunity for students to get real-world experience prior to graduation, in a program that allows them to see all aspects of a business.”
Founded in 1991, Clarke Distribution Corporation is Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove’s official wholesale distributor in New England. Over the last 27 years, Clarke has expanded to three award-winning showrooms in Boston’s Seaport District and in Milford and South Norwalk, CT. In addition to these design “inspiration centers,” Clarke offers a Culinary Center featuring gourmet cooking classes, a nationally known appliance service company, and a network of independent retail dealers.
Kelsey (Keough) Hodde ’12 is a testament to Clarke’s commitment to cultivating success for Assumption graduates. “My junior year at Assumption, I was offered the opportunity to become Clarke’s first intern. I felt an instant connection to the business because of its Assumption roots and the way the Clarkes truly wanted to see you succeed,” she said. “Three years later, I was hired as Clarke’s controller. I am so grateful that the Clarkes saw something in me and have trusted me to put my stamp on their business at such a young age. It truly is a special place to work.”
