Flourish 2025: Kirkwood Community College Fashion Show | Innovation, Design & Student Creativity, Ep67 | iNNOVATION Insights Podcast

April Elisha Stanley, Ph.D., is currently the Apparel Merchandising and Design Program Coordinator and Assistant Professor at Kirkwood Community College. She oversees the program, teaching all apparel and textiles courses, and developing and improving curriculum. Dr. Stanley mentors all fashion students inclusive of interns and work study students. She facilitates partnerships with industry and works collaboratively with other campus programs for the annual fashion show and exhibition, course projects, internships, and BRICOLAGE magazine.

Dr. Stanley applies innovative teaching methods for a variety of fashion courses. She encourages students to approach their education with a growth mindset and seeks to foster an inclusive learning environment for all students. Dr. Stanley utilizes experiential learning theory and project-based methods for teaching the fashion context.

Dr. Stanley is involved in research and creative scholarship. She has had submissions accepted for presentations at the International Textiles and Apparel Association (ITAA) with creative designs exhibited at the Costume Society of America (CSA) and ITAA. Dr. Stanley has also received grants for creative design scholarship and to support students' learning. Her research and creative scholarship focuses on (a) Material Culture of Celtic Apparel and Textiles (b) Curriculum Development and Innovative Strategies, and (c) Creative and Technical Design for Children’s and Adaptive Garments.

Stacy Menard is a dynamic fashion professional whose expertise spans across multiple facets of event and show production. She has served as Fashion Show Director, Commentator Coordinator, Promotions Coordinator, Financial Coordinator, Events Coordinator, Fashion Stylist, Staging Coordinator, and Exhibition Team Member. With a strong eye for detail and creativity, Stacy brings vision and organization to every project, ensuring that each event is both impactful and memorable.

Samantha Zaruba is a multifaceted fashion professional at Kirkwood Community College, serving as Fashion Show Co-Director, Commentator Coordinator, Co-Model Coordinator, Beauty Coordinator, Fashion Stylist, Staging Coordinator, and Exhibition Team Member. Beyond fashion, Samantha brings three years of leadership experience with Metro High School Robotics, where she served as Outreach Lead and Team Captain, excelling in motivation, teamwork, and communication. She also represented her school on the Cedar Rapids Mayoral Youth Council, sharpening her skills in business and political communication.

Her creativity extends into the arts through her involvement with the Eastern Iowa Arts Academy, where she contributed to three youth rock bands, balancing collaboration, tight deadlines, and adaptability. Currently studying merchandising and design, Samantha combines technical expertise with a strong team-oriented approach, preparing her to contribute innovative and impactful work across the fashion and design industries.

Emma Newhouse is a dedicated fashion professional with experience as Model Coordinator, Lead Fashion Stylist, Staging Coordinator, and Exhibition Team Member. She combines a strong eye for style with organizational expertise, ensuring that every detail of a show or exhibition runs smoothly. Emma’s leadership and creativity allow her to bring both vision and precision to every project she undertakes.