by Kali Hernandez Fraire
Looking for professional attire for your next interview or internship? Just want to experiment with your style? Visit the Colonel’s Closet in the ODI building, Centre’s free thrift store!
What started as a collaboration between the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) and the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) to provide students with professional wear has now evolved into a student-led project aiming to create a big impact on campus. In the spring of 2024, News Horizons’ cohort of the Class of 2027 took over the project and expanded it to accept all kinds of clothing donations. The New Horizons scholars created and advertised what is now known as Colonel’s Closet, as coined by scholar Joyner Jikang.
Why Colonel’s Closet Matters
The Closet’s mission is to provide all students, especially those who might be experiencing financial challenges, with a supply of clothing without the need to pay. “Thrifting has become a huge thing and thrift stores have gone up,” says Jonael, the scholar currently running the closet, emphasizing that the low cost of thrift stores which people may have relied on have now risen, leaving them in limbo.
However, that’s not all! The Colonel’s Closet is also a great way for students to find creative ways to reuse clothes and fit them into their personal style. Jonael hopes that students don’t feel hesitant to use the Closet, as it is a resource for everyone. “There’s enough clothing for everyone,” Jonael says, encouraging all students to check it out regardless of their financial situation.
Interested?
If you’re passionate about creating an impact, organizing, thrifting, or simply want to help out, reach out to Jonael Lantigua at jonael.lantigua@centre.edu to see how you can contribute to the Colonel’s Closet project. As mentioned, volunteers are always welcome, and your participation can help the closet continue for future generations of Centre students.
The Colonel’s Closet is located on the second floor of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) building and it is open from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday!