Dr. Elisha Stanley

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.