Sarah Valencia Makes Gift in Will in Gratitude for Her Carroll Education

Sarah (Polster) Valencia ’03 added a gift to Carroll in her will and is currently the youngest member of Carroll University’s Legacy Society.

“I created my will to ensure that my daughter would be taken care of while positioning myself to give back to Carroll as well,” Sarah said.

After graduating from Carroll, Sarah served in the Peace Corps and received a master’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She works in health care, teaches in UW-Madison’s School of Social Work, and was elected to the village board of Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, in 2019.

“Carroll made a lasting and significant impact on my personal life as well as my career. With the support of the whole Carroll family, I was able to pursue a meaningful career in social work and health care. Friendships from Carroll continue to enrich my life in countless ways,” she said.

Sarah’s parents, Steve and Caroline (Fenner) Polster ’76, also attended Carroll. The extra family connection has kept her more engaged with her alma mater and mindful of what it means to her, she said.

“Carroll has given me so much, and I am grateful. I am committed to the mission and vision of Carroll today and optimistic that Carroll will be an option for generations to come so that they, too, may be a part of this great experience,” Sarah said.