Pensole Lewis College (PLC Detroit), the nation’s sole design-focused Historically Black College and University (HBCU), is excited to announce its latest initiative: PLC LIGHT SCHOOL. Launching on January 27, 2025, this free seven-week evening program aims to open new doors for Detroit residents by providing hands-on career education led by industry leaders such as StockX, the Detroit Pistons, Carhartt, and other innovative Michigan-based organizations. PLC LIGHT SCHOOL is designed to enhance diversity in the design field, serving as a guiding light for aspiring creators eager to transform their ambitions into reality.
The in-person program will take place on Mondays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. from January 27 through March 13, 2025. Participants will benefit from the expertise of top professionals from PLC Detroit, StockX, the Detroit Pistons, Carhartt, and other local creators.
PLC LIGHT SCHOOL offers a unique, project-based curriculum that emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications, enabling students to cultivate the skills necessary for tangible career opportunities. This initiative underscores PLC Detroit’s longstanding commitment to empowering Black talent and expanding access to design education while amplifying underrepresented voices in the industry.
Rather than simply replicating a traditional night school model, PLC LIGHT SCHOOL is tailored to the specific interests of Detroit’s creative community, fostering a robust support network for local brands and thought leaders.
Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, president of PLC Detroit, emphasized that this initiative arose from the community’s demand for accessible design education.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with esteemed Detroit organizations like StockX and the Detroit Pistons, who share our commitment to empowering creatives and future professionals in Detroit,” Edwards stated.
This partnership highlights PLC’s vital role in career education and professional growth within Detroit’s design landscape. By collaborating with local organizations and educational institutions, PLC is actively nurturing talent and innovation, ensuring that the design community remains vibrant and dynamic.
StockX’s Chief Impact Officer, Damien Hooper-Campbell, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating that PLC LIGHT SCHOOL enables individuals in Detroit to explore their passions more deeply.
“At StockX, we believe in the transformative power of access and education. Partnering with PLC Detroit and the Detroit Pistons, we are equipping the next generation of creative talent with essential skills, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive in the design industry,” Hooper-Campbell remarked.
Recognizing that many adults seek night school to enhance their skills or pivot to new careers, PLC LIGHT SCHOOL offers flexibility for those juggling daytime commitments. By providing evening classes, PLC Detroit champions the idea that knowledge can illuminate new paths and possibilities.
Courses will cover Accessories Design, Apparel Design, Footwear Design, Graphics, Product Marketing, Social Marketing, and Web Design. Students will present their projects to representatives from PLC Detroit, StockX, and the Detroit Pistons, with selected projects potentially being produced and sold online at StockX. Proceeds from sales will be reinvested into the program to ensure its continued growth.
Bilal Saeed, Vice President of Brand & Marketing Strategy for the Detroit Pistons, expressed pride in partnering with PLC Detroit and StockX to launch this transformative initiative.
“This program reflects our commitment to fostering diversity and creating opportunities for Detroit residents,” Saeed said. “By supporting PLC Detroit’s free, hands-on career education program, we aim to empower the next generation of creative leaders and cater to the unique interests of our vibrant community.”
Benefits for Participants
- Accessible evening classes in creative career education
- Open to Metro Detroit residents seeking new career pathways
- Learn the professional creative process from industry experts
- Receive mentorship from PLC Detroit, StockX, the Detroit Pistons, Carhartt, and more
- Opportunity for selected projects to be produced and sold online at StockX, with proceeds supporting program growth
Eligibility
- Must be a Metro Detroit resident
- High school graduate or adults 18+
Application Deadline: Sunday, December 29, 2024, @ 11:59 PM ET. Apply at www.plcdetroit.com/lightschool
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