April 8, 2025 — The countdown to the 39th annual Silver Needle Runway show is on.

This year’s runway, titled P3RS9ECTIVE, is focused on highlighting diverse perspectives and innovating one of the largest events on Marist’s campus.

Showcasing Diverse Perspectives

The Runway is dedicated to showcasing diversity both on and off the stage.

A big part of Silver Needle are the 27 senior fashion design students, who present their senior thesis collections as a part of their capping process.

Each designer’s unique perspective shapes their collection. Lila Mortensen '25’s collection “Everlasting Affection” draws inspiration from her Korean identity and heritage, while Hannah Winters '25’s collection “camp” explores the idea of sustainability and circular fashion.

To promote connection and community, Silver Needle Runway hosts an annual networking panel at the University's Payne Mansion in Esopus for junior and senior fashion merchandising and design students.

This year’s panel centered around the diverse experiences and perspectives of four women leaders in the fashion industry: Allison Price, Head of Product Management; Jeanette Limas, Founder and Chief Creative of her eponymous brand; Meenakshi Lala, CEO of UrbanStems; and Erica Abduelal, Vice President of Human Resources.

Fashion students have one-on-one conversations with the four panelists after the event at the Payne Mansion. Photo courtesy of Silver Needle Runway.

“The panel theme was Empowered to Lead,” said Lena Tsourides '25, Student Branding Logistics Director. “Each panelist highlighted how their different backgrounds and experiences led them to where they are today, as well as how they use their backgrounds to lead their teams.”

Panelists reflected on their leadership experiences, their efforts to empower women in fashion, and their dedication to cultivating diverse and inclusive workplaces. Students then had the opportunity to network and speak one-on-one with the panelists.

Striving for Innovation

Printed photos from model casting, design inspirations, and senior collection photoshoots. Photo courtesy of 2025 Silver Needle Runway Directors.

The runway is founded on seven pillars, one of which is the idea of innovation.

“It’s one of the biggest emphases in our work as directors,” Lena said. “How can we do things better, or differently, or in a completely new way? We’re thinking outside the box.”

Last year’s Silver Needle Runway. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist University.

Emma Winkler '25, Student Creative Director, lead her team in re-designing the runway itself.

This year’s runway will break from tradition with a rotating stage, enhanced lighting, and projected animations. A live orchestra will perform during the pre-show.

Students are also gaining experience building industry connections. Chloe McCormack-Falk '25, Student Model Production Director, secured new sponsorships from ELF and Tarte Cosmetics. Blythe Weninger '25, Student Communications Director, collaborated with Malinda Behrans, Interim Director for Fashion Career Development, to invite industry professionals to attend and judge the show.

“The week of show is the most exciting part of the process,” Blythe said. “All of our work physically comes together in front of us.”

About Silver Needle Runway

Silver Needle Runway is one of Marist’s longest-running and most popular experiential learning opportunities. Entirely student-run since 1984, the show involves over 300 participants each year, including senior directors, Fashion Show Production students, ambassadors, volunteers, and models.

The senior Silver Needle Runway Student Directors (left to right): Emily Sumner, Blythe Weninger, Lena Tsourides, Madison Kasun, Mabel Aronson, Chloe McCormack-Falk, Ashley Wickersheim, Emma Winkler, Christina Fitzpatrick. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

During the spring semester, the directors lead the class under guidance from faculty mentor Juan-Manuel Olivera-Silvera. Students are split into five teams, each focused on a different part of the production.

Proceeds from the runway benefit the Silver Needle Enrichment fund. The fund provides scholarships for rising seniors, who are often underrepresented in scholarship distributions. Funds will aid in the purchase of materials and supporting internships.

The Silver Needle Runway show is scheduled for May 9th at 7 pm. Tickets are on sale now.