Micheo says the CARS program has taught them not only design but also the “business of clothing,” and Pink Power gives students a unique opportunity to practice all these skills. As one of two fashion shows the club hosts each year, it helps students build competencies in leadership, time management, project management, and event planning. Students arrange for event photography, host model calls, and emcee the show, which typically draws more than 300 people.

“Having a level of production that matches the amount of effort put in by all the individuals is important,” Micheo says. “We want everyone’s work to be shown in the best way possible.”

Together, the students and participants strive to bring awareness and financial support to a good cause. Initially, Pink Power raised funds for the Mammography Scholarship Fund at Cone Health. In later years, it has supported Living Beyond Breast Cancer, which provides information and support to survivors and their caregivers. Last year, THREADS raised $2,000 for the nonprofit.

“The fact that the students identified and got behind this cause, and that it’s continued for this long, is really remarkable,” Hodges says. “It speaks to their interest in the community at large and their desire to connect to something bigger than themselves.” Students say their work with Pink Power has been a highlight of their time at the Bryan School.

“It’s kind of a glamorous flashy way to do something very cool for others,” Micheo says. “Either way, we want to make clothes, so having it serve a greater purpose is fantastic.”