Courtesy of Kim Strom, Assistant Department Head at the Spears School of Business, OSU.
The OSU Women in Technology (WIT) and Women in Business (WIB) clubs are launching an initiative to prepare female students for the upcoming recruiting season this fall. The clubs ask the Stillwater community to contribute professional women's clothing that will assist students in feeling confident and making a positive impression as they start their careers.
Why Your Donations Matter
Gently used professional clothing is needed to help students build confidence for interviews and networking opportunities. The donated clothing will be distributed to students free of charge during the "Career Closet" event (see below), where fashion experts will be available to provide guidance on selecting appropriate outfits.
Requested Donations
Donated items should be in excellent condition, preferably no more than three years old, and professionally cleaned. All sizes and colors are welcome. These types of garments in particular are most needed:
Business Suits
Jackets/Blazers
Dress Pants/Skirts
Dress Shirts/Blouses
Professional Dresses
Pumps or other professional shoes
Donation Location and Timing
Donations can be dropped off at the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce at 409 S. Main St., during the following hours:
Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., now through August 30.
Upcoming Events
In addition to the donation drive, this initiative will hold three events to support students during the recruiting season:
The first is the "Dress for Success" on August 28, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Fashion experts will present advice and tips on how to dress professionally, make outfits, and feel confident as they enter the interview.
The second event will be the "Career Closet" on September 6, 9:00 a.m. - Noon, at the Williams Lab (BU084). The donated clothing will be available for the young lady students to select clothing items, all free of charge. Fashion experts will be on hand to help and offer advice.
In the afternoon of the 6th, the clubs will host the "Career Closet Connections" event from 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. in the Keystone Lobby. Students can network with alumni and clothing donors while showcasing their newly acquired professional outfits.
A Gift that Keeps Giving
Any items not selected by students during the events will be donated to the Thrifty Butterfly in Stillwater, which supports the Wings of Hope Family Crisis Services. This way, donations will benefit the students and the broader community.
Those interested in donating or attending the Career Closet Connections event are encouraged to provide their information here.
