Revamp the Office Runway

Fashionable, luxurious, glamorous, and expensive are words often used to describe fashion show events, but what about fundraising? Well, a class in the College of Hospitality decided to make that a reality. In the Advanced Event Production class, a group of students planned a fashion show to raise money for a nonprofit. 

The nonprofit that the event supported was Dress for Success, whose goal is to help women achieve financial independence by supporting them with professional dress and programs that help prepare them for the workforce. This meaningful mission has helped more than one million women achieve financial freedom. Additionally, this was an opportunity for students to get involved with the charity as the money spent on tickets will all go to Dress for Success. There were also baskets as part of a drawing that helped raise additional funds.

During the planning process of the event, the students who organized it went to Dress for Success and were able to borrow clothes to use in the show. The students also used suites that were lent by a New York Fashion Week Designer. All of the models' outfits were well put together and fashionable. The models were all students who volunteered to be part of the show and dedicated time to practice and perfect the walk. The show featured a local DJ/ Emcee named Luke Renchan, who did an amazing job and brought the show to the next level in terms of production value.

The show partnered with Dress for Success , JWU Ex Ed and career Serices as well as the University Involvement Board. Each partner had their own table and had a representative who was able to interact and inform the attendees about their services. Overall the show was a great success and the audience seemed to really enjoy the show as well as the photo booth and other activities available during the event.