Since joining the Wilson College of Textiles as a staff member, I have felt like an essential member of this family. I can't say enough wonderful things about this college, its extraordinary alumni, staff, faculty and leaders, and how passionate our talented students are about textiles. I am so proud to be a member of Wilson for Life!
The impact of the Wilson College of Textiles is globally significant and personally profound. The college not only prepared and inspired me to excel in industry, but also became a permanent home for me no matter where I find myself globally.
I went to N.C. State in 1975 to study Mechanical Engineering. My first semester was boring. A kid I knew who was a senior In textiles suggested I take an Intro to Textiles class. That class did it, I switched majors, and it changed my life. I had a great career in technical textiles and now do some textile consulting. I also am lucky to be able to teach in ZTE, back where it all started!
Transitioning from zoology to textiles in my sophomore year was daunting with no apparel or textile knowledge. Thanks to the Wilson College of Textile's professors, I was equipped with the skills needed to become a tech designer, an entrepreneur, and now a colleague. A passion was instilled in me that continues to weave through my professional endeavors, creating a seamless connection between my past and present.
The Emerging Designers Showcase is my best memory of my time at Wilson College of Textiles. It wasn't just a semester project but something that had been 4 years in the making for each us. We were surrounded by our professors, families, and friends to show what we had been working for and who we were as designers. Sharing that with classmates who had become family was the cherry on top.
It's impossible to find someone who was a part of the Wilson College that does not use the word "family" to describe it. The faculty/staff empowered me and made me excited about my education. After graduating I was well equip to chase my dream job as a Material Developer at Nike for 5 years. Now I'm grateful to work at a small company in SC, closer to Raleigh, where I can be involved to give back.
Floopy Dunlap was a special faculty member during my undergraduate years at the School of Textiles. He and Mendel Robinson were instrumental in building my understanding of leadership and management.. great foundation for my career.
During a time in my life when I felt so lost, The Wilson College of Textiles made me feel safe, loved, and supported. The people at Wilson are my family and I am forever thankful for the impact they have made on my life.
M.S. Textile Engineering, 2023
Attending the Wilson Renaming Event was an impactful experience! I was a sophomore at the time and it was so special to be included in a major part of college history. Plus, I got some swag personally signed by Fred Wilson, himself!
I had a lovely conversation with Dr. Porterfield this semester and truly felt understood! She helped me get on track and I appreciate her dedication and support!
Wilson College of Textiles gave me wings to fly and dream big. The experience filled me with confidence and prepared me for leadership roles in the industry. Great faculty and staff are always an asset to any university and Wilson College of Textiles has a rich resource. Made some great and life long friendships. So grateful for everything.
Kent Hester came to my high school recruiting, and got me interested in [Wilson College]. Ended up working as a recruiter for [Wilson College] after graduation. Kent was an invaluable member of the Staff for me, as well as lots of other students through the years. He most certainly EARNED his retirement!!
NC State gave me an opportunity to ideate and create products which can stand out and serve as a differentiator.
Wilson gave me an excellent education, but it also gave me my best friend, Lilly Barozzini. We randomly were selected as roommates for STEP, she's been by my side since. After 4 years of rooming together, she is the best thing that has happened to me. As I've navigated finding myself in college, she's helped me find who I'm supposed to be. I will forever be thankful to Wilson for giving her to me!
While a senior in Textile Chemistry, I was demonstrating azoic dying during an open-house for high school seniors. Hank Rutherford, Department Head, walked in with an elderly gentlemen. The fellow asked me a question regarding my demonstration. Turns out he was Heinrich Zollinger, world expert on azoic dyes! I was floored to be demonstrating to the world expert visiting from Switzerland!
M.S. Textile Chemistry, 1980
The establishment of the Centennial Scholarship initiative by the Foundation resulted in students choosing the college of textiles who have made and continue to make an extraordinarily positive impact while there and as alumni.
You will not find a more well rounded education at this university!
Phi Psi Annual Conventions with Eta Chapter. Especially 1986 at the Hotel Viking in Newport, RI. If you know, you know.
Wilson gave me an excellent education, but it also gave me my best friend, Lilly Barozzini. We randomly were selected as roommates for STEP, she's been by my side since. After 4 years of rooming together, she is the best thing that has happened to me. As I've navigated finding myself in college, she's helped me find who I'm supposed to be. I will forever be thankful to Wilson for giving her to me!
Share Your Story