Kalamazoo Times

Genesis Fernandez and Ainsley Rahm, students at Western Michigan University (WMU), have won an exclusive opportunity to attend New York Fashion Week (NYFW) in February. The two were selected through the Bronco Spirit in Motion Competition, which is supported by WMU's Office of Marketing and Strategic Communications, the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC), and IMG's fashion events division.

Fernandez, a fashion design student, expressed her excitement: "I'm still kind of in shock," she said. "New York is where I want to live. I feel like every fashion major wants that, so this is the closest thing right now for me to achieving my dreams."

Rahm, who studies supply chain management, shared her enthusiasm as well: "I called my mom crying immediately when I found out I won," she said. Recalling her childhood interest in fashion sparked by watching 'Project Runway,' Rahm added, "New York Fashion Week has always been something that's been on my mind that I would love to do; I just didn't think it would be possible."

The competition challenged participants to create a visual design or marketing project embodying Bronco spirit through fashion. Fernandez conceptualized cowboy boots featuring star-studded W’s and stripes inspired by fan-favorite overalls sold at the bookstore. Gerfen noted that Fernandez stood out because she complemented existing spirit wear offerings with her designs.

Rahm developed a marketing campaign for a student-designed T-shirt rooted in tradition and conducted market research among students. Her plan included social media promotions and pop-up events to generate interest.

"Both winners captured the spirit of the assignment," stated Greg Gerfen from WMU's advertising and promotion department. He praised their creativity and understanding of their target market.

Fernandez and Rahm will shop for spirit wear at the WMU Bookstore before representing the university at NYFW. They also plan to connect with last year's winner for advice on maximizing their experience.

"I'm hoping to really delve into even more about the fashion industry—not just seeing fashion week from my screen but being able to learn firsthand what it's like," Rahm remarked.

"It's a really, really great opportunity," added Fernandez. "I'm just so excited."

For further information on WMU news and events, visit WMU News online.