From Kalamazoo to NYC: Meet the Student Duo Taking New York Fashion Week by Storm!

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Western Michigan University students showed off their fabulous Bronco spirit in the bid to win an all-access pass to the glitz and glam of one of the fashion world’s biggest stages! Bejeweled boots, Buster-branded blouses, and fringe galore took center stage as these students aimed for the ultimate prize: New York Fashion Week (NYFW).

Hold onto your cowboy hats! Genesis Fernandez, a fashion design superstar, and Ainsley Rahm, a supply chain savvy genius, are jetting off to the Big Apple on an all-expenses-paid journey after clinching the Bronco Spirit in Motion Competition.

“I’m still kind of in shock,” Fernandez confessed. The dream? New York, baby! “It's like getting a sneak peek into what my future could be.”

Backed by Western’s Office of Marketing and Strategic Communications in cahoots with Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) and IMG, these stars are about to unlock secrets of the fashion kingdom, from runways to industry leader pow-wows.

Rahm shared her Cinderella moment: “I called my mom in tears... New York Fashion Week has been a dream, and oh my gosh, it’s happening!”

The contest, born in 2022, pushes fashionistas to dive into their creative juices. The mission: capture the electrifying Bronco essence through killer designs or marketing flair.

A panel of sharp-eyed fashion mavens judged the masterpieces, rating on creativity, Bronco essence, professionalism, and market sizzle! Greg Gerfen, executive-in-residence, was dazzled by the spectrum of innovation, from AI magic to upcycled Western Herald garments.

Fernandez conjured up Bronco Boots—cowboy chic for WMU fans with details that scream style, like starry W’s and stripes beloved by the bookstore crowd. She even brainstormed adding charms for that extra bling factor.

"Genesis nailed it by complementing existing spirit wear," said Gerfen. Her boots are the perfect kick to boost Bronco wardrobes!

Rahm worked magic with a comprehensive marketing plan for a student-designed tee showcasing tradition. Her ideas? Showcasing annual designs at Heritage Hall and reeling in students and alumni with an engaging campaign.

"Her understanding of Gen Z's love for experiences shone through," Gerfen noted. Her idea promises lasting impact, extending beyond graduation.

Fernandez and Rahm are revving up to shop for spirit wear at the WMU Bookstore before hitting the NYFW runway. They're linking up with last year’s champ, Laura Argentati, for insider tips on making the most of this dazzling experience.

Rahm’s ready for insider industry scoops, and Fernandez is pumped for her dreams to materialize. “It’s the opportunity of a lifetime,” gushes Fernandez. Dream big, Bronco darlings!

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