Young Alum of the Month: Cara Kempadoo
July 2025
Name: Cara Kempadoo
Hometown: Johnston, IA
Major(s) and Graduation Date: Management, Marketing, and Sports
Business Major, Accounting Minor. May 2023.
Favorite BVU Class: Selling
Job Title & Company: Sales Consultant at Johnson Brothers of Iowa
Major Job/Position Responsibilities: Oversees the city of Ankeny with over 30 accounts that include Hy-vee, Fareway, Walmart, Target, and a variety of c-stores (Casey’s, Kum & Go, QuikTrip, Kwik Star). Work daily with these accounts to provide them with their wine and spirits orders and push for certain brands every month. Make sure that customer shelves are positioned and stocked appropriately through regular merchandising. Continuously grow new and existing brands in the Gallo portfolio. 
What do you like most about your job/position? I really enjoy being in the market every day to connect with my buyers and grow my territory. I get to help launch new products and work to see them succeed in the market. I can incorporate my personality into my job to help benefit my buyers as well as myself. I also like that I can network with various other vendors and people that I run into daily.
What advice would you give to current students at BVU? I never saw myself in the job I am in now, but I took a chance on something I didn’t think I’d like and ended up loving it. Branching out to something new is never a bad idea and can end up surprising you. Regardless, you’ll have new experiences and skills that can benefit you and help you grow both personally and professionally. And always remember to have fun, time goes by way too fast.