Student project seeks items for “career attire for men” events in April; all students & employees can use JC Penney Suit-Up days through Apr. 30

During his Fall Semester Career Exploration class (HUM 190), Associate of Science major Josh Render wondered why the Career Center was promoting a “Dress for Success” event for women, but no equivalent event was available to male students.

Course instructor and academic advisor Eimee Donbar said students discussed the lack of a sponsoring organization for an event focused on men’s professional attire. As a result, Josh set a goal of finding a way to obtain career clothing for Cincinnati State male students, and also help them learn how to dress successfully for career opportunities.

Eimee said Josh “turned down an offer to job shadow a neurosurgeon at UC Health” and instead, he is carrying out an experiential learning special project this semester, which will culminate with two April events.

On April 12, at an event conducted with support from Cincinnati State’s Career Center, male students will be able to get measured for professional clothing, learn how to coordinate a professional outfit, and how to tie a tie– and Josh hopes the Career Closet will be equipped to provide attire for “as many men as possible.”

During the event, six new suits donated to the Career Closet by Macy’s will be distributed to participants nominated by the Career Center CState Accelerate, Disability Services, Black Male Initiative organization, and other Cincinnati State service areas.  

In addition, seven suits donated by Jos A Bank Clothiers will be raffled to participating students.

Career Closet Coordinator Brian Hooten reached out to businesses to obtain the donations.

• Josh is currently seeking a tailor who is willing to assist with measuring participants on April 12, and also hopes to locate some helpers to make alterations to the attire that is distributed.
• Josh is also is seeking donations of men’s shoes in sizes 9 to 13 that will be appropriate to wear with new suits.
• If you can help, please get in touch with Brian Hooten (brian.hooten@cincinnatistate.edu).

Recipients of new suits will show off their attire at an event on April 19, where some media coverage is expected.

JC Penney Suit-Up provides discounted attire for all

All Cincinnati State students (and employees!) can add to your professional wardrobe during the JC Penney Suit-Up Event, which continues through April 30, 2023.

Discounts are available on clothes, beauty products, salon services, and professional portraits, with a 30% discount for professional attire.

To learn more, visit the Cincinnati State Suit-Up Event web page: https://www.cincinnatistate.edu/jcpenney-suit-up.