May 15, 2026
By University Career Center staff
In the world of work, the first few seconds of an interaction can shape an opportunity.
For many students, however, making a strong first impression is not about lacking talent, ambition, or preparation—it is about having access to attire that helps them feel confident, present their authentic selves, and build a brand that reflects who they are and where they are headed.
The University Career Center (UCC) Clothes Closet was established to remove this barrier.
Now, as it celebrates over a decade of service, the program has received the highest form of industry recognition: the 2026 Champion of Opportunity – College Award from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE).
As the leading organization on career development standards, NACE selected the University Career Center Clothes Closet for its unique approach to equity, sustainability, and student success.
2026 NACE Award Winner
The NACE Champion of Opportunity Award is reserved for programs that demonstrate measurable impact and a model that can be replicated at institutions nationwide. For the University Career Center, this award validates a mission that began in 2016 with a single student’s concern about not feeling confident in business attire for the Job & Internship Fair
"What is really unique about the Clothes Closet is that it closes that gap and doesn't make people feel as out of place," says Alisha Shah, a U-M alum and former Clothes Closet Coordinator. "It ensures everyone feels included, regardless of their background."
The program was evaluated on four key pillars:
- Impact: Over 8,000 students served and 18,000+ items distributed since inception.
- Innovation: A unique model that combines career readiness with environmental sustainability.
- Best Practice: Intentional sourcing of gender-neutral and adaptive clothing to ensure every Wolverine finds a fit that respects their identity and accessibility needs.
- Measurable Success: With 2,064 pounds of items donated so far in the 2025–26 academic year, including 521 pounds this month, the UCC Clothes Closet is making a measurable sustainability impact by reusing professional attire and reducing textile waste.
More Than Just a Suit: The Impact of Your Support
While the UCC Clothes Closet provides tangible items — blazers, slacks, and shoes — the biggest benefit is confidence. Access to professional attire helps students not only look the part, but also begin building their personal brand as emerging professionals.
By removing the financial burden of business attire, which can often cost hundreds of dollars, the UCC allows students to focus squarely on the professional opportunities in front of them instead of on their bank accounts.
Clothes Closet By the Numbers (2016–2026):
- 8,000+ total students served
- 18,283 items distributed (approx. 14 miles of clothing)
- 16.2% of students are repeat Clothes Closet customers
- Blazers, button up shirts and dress pants are the most selected itemsFor many students, the UCC Clothes Closet is the “front door” to the University Career Center. Once a student visits for a blazer, they are introduced to career coaching, internship labs, and employer and alumni networks that can shape their entire professional journey.
Celebrating 10 Years and Looking Ahead
This national award arrives just as the UCC Clothes Closet celebrates its 10th Birthday. What started as a series of campus partner events has evolved into a permanent, appointment-based resource powered by donations from faculty, staff, alumni, and community members.
Institutional support remains robust, with partnerships spanning the Career Services Network Black Business Undergraduate Society, Central Student Government, Spectrum Center, and First-Generation Gateway. However, as student demand continues to reach record highs, the need for continued investment grows.
How You Can Help:
- Donate: We are always seeking contemporary, gently-used professional attire.
- Support: Contributions to our ongoing campaign allow us to purchase specific sizes, gender-neutral pieces, and adaptive items that are rarely donated but highly needed.
- Advocate: Share our story with your professional networks to help us "fill the racks" for the next generation of leaders.
Louise E. Jackson, UCC’s Director, notes: "A degree alone does not guarantee a career. Students need to learn how to tell their story. The UCC Clothes Closet ensures they can step into that story with confidence."