Missouri Southern State University students and alumni will have the opportunity to receive free professional clothing during the annual Dress to Impress event on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Billingsly Student Center third-floor ballroom.
The event, organized by the Career Services Department in partnership with the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and local business community, provides students with access to professional attire at no cost. The items students can find in the event varied between suits, blazers, dress shirts, blouses, dresses, shoes, jewelry and other accessories suitable for job interviews and professional settings.
“Dress to Impress is our annual professional clothing giveaways event for all students and alumni,” said Alex Gandy, director of Career Services at MSSU. “We’ll have a pop-up department store full of men’s and women’s professional clothing, and students can come anytime between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. without an appointment.”
The idea for the event began as a way for the local business community to reward and support students with their transition from classroom to the workplace. According to Gandy, many students lack access to professional clothing due to financial limitations, making the event especially impactful and significant.
“This is our 12th annual event, and it has been very successful,” Gandy said. “Last year, we served more than 400 students in a single day.” “Even small donations can make a significant difference,” Gandy explained. A professional outfit for an interview can cost between $80 and $150, but through Dress to Impress, students can receive three to five outfits at no cost, saving them hundreds of dollars.
“One of the phrases we like to use is, when you look good, you feel good”, Gandy said. “When students walk out with professional clothing, they feel more confident, which helps them perform better in job interviews and present credibility to employers.”
Beyond providing clothing, the event also strengthens connections between students and the community. “I hope students realize that the community truly cares about their success, Gandy said. “We want them to walk out knowing they are supported and prepared for job interviews.”
Gandy emphasized that one of the most important aspects of this event is the wide range of volunteers and community contributions each year. “The volunteers and donors are always incredibly generous,” he said.
This event encourages students to attend, even if they are unsure, they need something. “This event is free, and you never know what you might find,” Gandy said. “You might discover a shirt, dress, tie or piece of jewelry that you really like. It never hurts to stop by and see what’s there for you.”
By providing free professional clothing, Dress to Impress continues to empower students, boost confidence, and strengthen the connection between the university and community.
