Apparel Design

Alumni Residency Program 

Bridge the Gap Between Graduation and Career

Purpose

Edessa School of Fashion recognizes the challenges recent graduates face when transitioning from academic life to a professional career in the fashion industry, particularly the financial barriers to securing studio space. To bridge this gap, Edessa offers studio access to emerging fashion designers through our Designer in Residence program. This residency provides not only dedicated creative space but also structured mentorship designed to support each designer's growth, whether they aspire to launch their own label or pursue opportunities within the broader fashion industry.

Expectations

Residents are expected to fully engage in the Edessa community by developing a minimum eight-look collection for the annual fashion show, participating in workshops, critiques, and networking events, and contributing to community engagement initiatives. They will also take part in presentations and exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing their growth and design evolution.

Overview

The Designer in Residence program at Edessa School of Fashion runs from June 1 to May 31 and requires a one-year commitment. Residents are provided with dedicated studio space within the school, along with mentorship from Edessa faculty and established industry professionals. Participants gain access to exclusive workshops, critiques, and networking events designed to support their professional development. Each resident is expected to create a minimum eight-look collection to be showcased in Edessa’s annual fashion show. The program also includes opportunities for community engagement, as well as presentations and exhibitions throughout the year.

Apply

 Applications open each spring.
For questions, contact us at admissions@edessa.fashion.

Current Residents

  • Patricia Golden graduated December ‘23 from Mount Mary University leaving with multiple awards; “Best-In-Show” & “Best Senior Collection.” Her Senior collection was featured in Madison’s Musem of Contemporary Arts. She’s worked under Elena Velez in New York Fashion Week and in Milwaukee’s fashion week. At her time at Nordstrom, Golden worked her way up from being an apprentice seamstress to a tailor. She has experience in quality control, with her time with Shopbop. Currently, her skill is being used as Potawatomi’s Casino | Hotel’s Retail Fashion Designer. 

  • Bolingo Bokuli is a passionate and innovative fashion designer who earned her Bachelor of Arts in Fashion Design from Mount Mary University in 2024. Her work is defined by a deep appreciation for African heritage, bold use of color, and a commitment to sustainability, ethical values, and cultural diversity.

    Bolingo has showcased her designs at the Mount Mary University Fashion Show, Milwaukee Fashion Week, and the Milwaukee Art in Bloom Fashion Show—where she presented an unconventional wedding dress that blended artistry with couture craftsmanship. She gained industry experience through an internship with Florence Eiseman.

    Bolingo continues to expand her creative vision while engaging with the local design community. Her design philosophy centers on quality, simplicity, and affordability, creating garments that are timeless, meaningful, and accessible.