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Lincoln Trail College is expanding support for students preparing to enter the workforce with the opening of its Professional Clothing Closet, a free resource offering work-appropriate attire for job interviews, internships, and new employment.
The closet grew out of a project developed last year through the Leadership Crawford County program. With financial backing from the Lincoln Trail College Foundation and support from several community partners, the idea moved from planning to implementation over the past year. The space opened quietly midway through the fall semester and has since become a steady stop for students seeking professional clothing they may not otherwise have access to.
The Professional Clothing Closet is open to current LTC students as well as local high school students. All items are available at no cost, and students may select the clothing they need without appointments. Hours will vary by semester, but this fall the closet has operated on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to 2 p.m.
Harley Jean, an LTC student serving in a work-study position, has played a key role in organizing and staffing the closet. She works with donated items, maintains the space, and helps students find clothing suited to their field of interest. Jean said the goal is to create an easy and welcoming experience for anyone who visits.
Clothing donations have come from community members, local businesses, and LTC employees. Items include shirts, pants, skirts, suits, shoes, and accessories in a range of sizes. Students may choose multiple pieces to build outfits that meet workplace expectations in areas such as healthcare, business, manufacturing, and customer service.
Tona Ambrose, president of Lincoln Trail College, said the project reflects ongoing collaboration between the college and the wider community.
“The Professional Clothing Closet is a practical way to remove barriers for students,” Ambrose said. “When community partners, the Leadership Crawford County program, and our Foundation came together to make this happen, it showed what is possible when we focus on student needs.”
Because the closet is run with the help of work-study students and volunteers, hours may shift each semester.
Ambrose said the initiative aligns with LTC’s broader efforts to support students beyond the classroom.
“Preparing for a job interview or the first week of work can be stressful,” she said. “Having access to appropriate clothing gives students one less thing to worry about.”
Students who want to use the Professional Clothing Closet can visit at the posted times or reach out to the Student Services Office for more information.
