Wilson fosters creativity with DAAPcamps

Wilson, associate director of student affairs and assistant adjunct professor, was first introduced to the college in 1993 while working as the trend and community engagement director at Mercantile Stores Co. Through this exposure, she was asked to serve on the jury for the annual DAAP fashion show and the capstone projects for the DAAP School of Design’s graduating class.

DAAPcamps now hosts between 280 and 300 students every year, from across the country and internationally, for both residential and day camps. 

“DAAPcamps provide a space for young artists and designers to explore and hone their skills in a way that is hands-on and a ton of fun,” says Kat Suddendorf who attended DAAPcamp three summers in a row while in high school. She graduated from the DAAP’s School of Design in 2024 and is currently an assistant designer at American Eagle Outfitters.    

The camps not only provide participants with a new skill set but also build a community through teamwork-based activities, creating friendships and connections.

Wilson’s impact is evident in the camp’s continuous growth each year, and despite her extensive career filled with many achievements, Wilson believes DAAPcamps is her most rewarding project. Whenever she sees a student at DAAP who attended camp, she knows she played a role in that decision.

“The camp has a culture to it. This is a family. We’re here, and we are going to make this the best experience for you. We are all really committed to that,” said Wilson.

Another career highlight for Wilson is her influence on RetroFittings.

RetroFittings started as a small project for fashion students to learn about sustainability by transforming items purchased at local St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) thrift stores into wearable masterpieces.

With Wilson’s guidance, DAAP fashion students have turned RetroFittings into a full-blown runway show, with students designing looks using pre-owned clothing and donated merchandise from SVDP.

A collaboration with a beauty school, Paul Mitchell the School Cincinnati, gives all students a taste of what it feels like to work in the fashion industry. UC students partner with Paul Mitchell student designers to create show-stopping makeup looks and hairstyles. “It’s a great way for students to see beyond fashion as we might normally think of it — to see it as a way to help others,” said Wilson.

“Her influence at DAAP is immense, and these programs thrive under her leadership,” says Tim Jachna, dean of the college.   

Wilson can often be found around the DAAP building working on her upcoming projects and connecting with students. Both of Wilson’s children attend the University of Cincinnati, deepening her connection with the college community.

 Featured image at top by An Le/UC student intern.