Welcoming Carolyn Racine as SBWI’s New Vice President of Continued Education
We are thrilled to announce that Carolyn Racine has officially stepped into the role of Vice President of Continued Education at the Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute!
Carolyn’s journey to this leadership role is as inspiring as it is unconventional—full of curiosity, creativity, and a bold willingness to reinvent herself. Born and raised just 20 minutes from SBWI, Carolyn studied Creative Writing at the University of Michigan before heading west to California, where she spent more than a decade immersed in the world of stand-up and sketch comedy. She wrote for performances at renowned theaters like UCB and The Pack, all while managing one of Los Angeles' busiest restaurants. But like many artists and creators, the pandemic prompted her to hit pause, reflect, and seek something more grounded.
That “something more” turned out to be woodworking.
A few exploratory classes at the Allied Woodshop in L.A. lit a fire in her. Carolyn found herself captivated by the tools, the material, the making. When her mom mentioned SBWI’s Wood Design diploma program, Carolyn didn’t hesitate—she packed up her trusty Honda Fit and made the trek back to Michigan, eager to reconnect with her roots and dive headfirst into craft.
Since graduating, Carolyn has built a reputation not just as a skilled artisan, but as a dynamic educator and entrepreneur. She operates a small upholstery business and quickly became a favorite among students in our continuing education program, where she teaches courses that blend traditional craft with her own unique brand of humor, warmth, and care.
As Vice President of Continued Education, Carolyn plays a key role in ensuring that every student who attends a continuing education class at SBWI has a complete and welcoming experience—from the moment they register to long after they’ve completed their course. Her role functions largely in a hospitality capacity, focused on creating a learning environment where students feel supported, inspired, and part of a creative community.
Whether it’s your first time picking up a chisel or your fiftieth class at SBWI, Carolyn is here for you. Students are encouraged to reach out to her with any questions or concerns—before, during, or after their time at SBWI. She’s committed to making sure that every student feels seen, heard, and well taken care of.
Please join us in welcoming Carolyn Racine to her new role. We can’t wait to see what she’ll build with us next.
View Carolyn’s Upcoming Courses
