New Chapters Often Lead to Next Chapters
In the case of Barbi Landgarten Schulick ’74, co-founder of New Chapter, a degree from Lesley University, coupled with a lifelong interest in learning, has resulted in a range of unexpected and very satisfying plot twists.
From a young age, Barbi clearly had a penchant for teaching, often guiding playmates in games and projects. As she grew older, her passion for education became increasingly obvious, including teaching her Turkish grandmother to read English. When it came time for Barbi to think about a profession, it was clear that teaching was her niche and Lesley was the place to follow her dream. “Enthusiasm seemed to carry the day and I was granted admission,” recalls Barbi of her Lesley interview.
When Barbi graduated from Lesley, teaching jobs were scarce. She worked at a small daycare in Cambridge, while she continued explorations in meditation that had begun while at Lesley. This interest led to a lifelong personal and business partnership when she met Paul Schulick in a meditation group in New York. The son of a pediatrician, Paul had a passion for healing through gaining a deeper understanding of whole foods and natural supplements, and soon after Barbi and Paul married, they purchased Mother Earth, a natural food store in Lexington, Massachusetts.
Stick With Your Mission
Before long Paul’s forays into herbal formulation had eclipsed their small store, and in 1986, the couple moved to Vermont to devote their energies to the fledgling New Chapter. New Chapter vitamin, mineral, and herbal supplements are a whole-food complex easily recognized and absorbed by the body. Products are sourced from organic fruits, vegetables, herbs, and superfoods and cultured in probiotics to deliver the full spectrum of natural benefits.
“We founded New Chapter nearly 30 years ago out of a desire to bring the healing value of nature’s botanicals into people’s lives,” says Barbi, who characterizes her role with the company as guiding the cultural heart of the organization. “Our mission then was the same as it is today: to deliver the wisdom of nature to all those seeking natural wellness. It is our hope that people will experience a new chapter in health from using our products, and join us in offering gratitude to the healing sustenance of herbs and whole foods.”
Listen to Your Heart
When Barbi looks back on the twists and turns of her life story, she credits Lesley, and faculty such as professors Paul Fideler and her exposure to renowned educator John Holt, with instilling in her “an empowerment of self.” According to Barbi, Lesley recognized her potential. “At Lesley, my passion for teaching and many friendships developed.”
And, teaching has continued to play a significant role in Barbi’s life. She home schooled her daughter for many years, and after her daughter and son graduated from The Putney School, Barbi stayed on to offer assistance to students who needed extra help.
When asked to sum up the lessons she has learned since graduating from Lesley, Barbi says, “Listen to your heart, it knows best. Ignite a passion for giving through your work, combine it with a tenacity that will not allow you to just settle, and make it fun.”