Joanne Montz, '95

Carson’s Caramels is a family-owned artisan caramel company led by Kent State University alumna Joanne Montz, '95, Chagrin Falls, OH. What began as a small passion project has grown into an emerging confectionery brand built on creativity, perseverance, relationship-building and a willingness to think outside the box. The company’s beginnings are as personal as its name, with a story rooted in family, creativity and unexpected paths to entrepreneurship.

Carson’s Caramels offers handcrafted, naturally gluten-free caramels in distinctive flavors including Sea Salt, Coffee, Orange, Bourbon, and seasonal varieties. The company has expanded beyond direct-to-consumer sales into wholesale, retail, corporate gifting, hospitality, and specialty partnerships.

With three decades of experience in sales, networking, business development, and corporate leadership, Joanne has built the brand from the ground up—embracing product development, manufacturing, packaging, distribution, marketing, and strategic partnerships. Carson’s Caramels reflects her belief that experience, relationships, creativity, and determination can turn an unexpected idea into exciting business opportunity.