Illinois Education Foundation suits students for success
When former U.S. Administrator for Iraq Paul Bremer took his first tour of Baghdad, he wore a navy-blue suit with tan combat boots.
That was his uniform for his entire tenure.
His reasoning was sound: When things get tough everyone looks to the guy in the suit.
The Illinois Education Foundation understands that a suit sometimes speaks volumes, and that’s why one of their programs involves dressing scholars for success.
Brooks Brothers, Allen Edmonds, Lori’s Shoes, LODI’s, Julie Watson Style and Davis Imperial Cleaners, among others, set up shop at Chicago’s Standard Club Saturday morning to outfit 75 IEF scholarship winners in interview-worthy finery at their Suited for Success event.
The organization serves highly motivated low-income community college students.
The male scholars are now armed with Edmonds’ Park Avenue or Balmoral shoes.
“Every president since Reagan has worn the Park Avenue,” Winnetka resident and Allen Edmonds envoy Colin Hall said.
But it’s not just the clothes that make the student.
“The key is the support,” IEF Board Member and Winnetka resident Anne Wedner said. “From teaching etiquette, interviewing skills, tutoring, we try to mentor these students.”
“Something that seems so silly and superficial — but it’s just so great to see them [getting fitted] today.”
By Meg Moore
Originally published January 26, 2012 in Pioneer Press Newspapers.
Reposted with permission.