Get ready for Runway 2025: A night of creativity, commemoration, and community

Runway, Buffalo State University’s Fashion and Textile Technology (FTT) Department’s 18th annual student-produced fashion show, presented by New Era Cap, returns Saturday, April 26.

Since its debut in 2008, Runway has provided students with a professional venue to showcase their talents. In addition to the onstage display of student designs, students are responsible for marketing, creative direction, logistics, production and stylistic choices. This year’s show features 22 senior designers and 100 models, along with many other student designers and participants. 

“We have a record number of senior designers this year, which is a true testament to the growing passion for fashion design and garment construction among our students,” said Dr. Shantell Reid, FTT assistant professor and senior collection instructor. “It reflects the creativity, dedication, and drive that continue to flourish in our department.”

This year’s focus, “Intersectional Identity,” is inspired by Kimberlé Williams Crenshaw’s concept of intersectionality and encourages designers to explore the overlapping layers of identity shaped by race, gender, religion, sexuality, ability, class, and culture. This focus challenges participants and viewers to reflect on the facets of their own identities, drawing attention to the ways in which our differences unite us as one. 

“Intersectional Identity challenges us to explore the complexities of our unique selves,” said Dr. Arlesa Shephard, chair and associate professor of the FTT Department. “It opens the door to deeper conversations about the shared experiences that connect us, showing how our interwoven narratives create a richer, more inclusive social fabric—one that celebrates every voice and fosters a true sense of belonging.” 

The idea was born out of the Social Justice Cohort, a space that brought together faculty and staff committed to equity and change. 

“Being part of the Social Justice Cohort was truly meaningful—an inspiring group of people coming together to learn, grow, and do the work,” said Erin Habes ’03, ’18, FTT lecturer and RUNWAY faculty director. “I’m so grateful to Ruth Goldman and John Draeger for creating such a powerful space for reflection and connection, and to my Intersectionality group for the conversations that helped shape this vision.”

A special dedication
This year’s show is dedicated to Nancy Belfer, professor emerita of design, who passed away in November 2024. Belfer was a fiber and mixed-media artist of distinction whose work was displayed in a plethora of regional and national exhibitions. She received the State University of New York 1982 Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching. 

An avid supporter of Runway since its inception, Belfer donated $1000 to the event to be presented to the winning senior collection in the form of the annual Nancy Belfer Award. 

“Nancy was a visionary who helped establish and lead the fiber design program, inspiring generations of students and leaving a powerful legacy on our campus,” Habes said. “We are deeply grateful for Ms. Belfer’s support over the past decade, and now for her family’s continued support in her honor.” 

This year, past Runway award winner Ashley Fidler ’23, a graduate of the fiber arts program, is leading students in designing a set that honors the late Belfer and her lasting impact on the campus. Brian Milbrand, technical director and equipment manager in the Communication Department, will bring the set to life through stunning visual projections. This collaboration serves as a powerful tribute to Belfer’s artistic legacy.

“We are using high-resolution scans of fabric and 3D scans of finished designs,” Milbrand said. “I hope to create visuals inspired by the textures and dimensionality of Nancy’s work.” 

Returning favorites
Many aspects of this year’s Runway will be recognizable from previous years, including a live red carpet, photo booth by BuffaloveBus (Michael Mitri, ’03); collaborations with Africana studies, theater, and dance (with two live performances); and a panel of judges comprising FTT alumni, fashion professionals, and sponsor representatives. 

“Runway is a highlight of the year for my students—a moment when Buffalo State comes together to celebrate their creativity and dedication,” said Naila Ansari, associate professor of theater and Africana studies. “Each season, I’m inspired by the incredible work of our students, faculty, staff, and sponsors who make this event possible. It’s a true reflection of our campus community’s talent and collaboration.”

This year also marks the exciting return of FTT’s collaboration with the graphic design program, led by assistant professor Shasti O’Leary-Soudant. Graphic design student Christian Chambers interned with Spicy Creative, working closely with the Fashion Show Production class to bring Intersectional Identity to life through the show’s visual branding.

“As the child of a fashion designer who once did couture, I’ve absolutely delighted in experiencing a full circle moment,” said O’Leary-Soudant. “I was honored to contribute to this stellar event through teaching and mentoring Christian, a remarkable graphic design student whose creative vision shaped this year’s campaign. Our partnership with Spicy Creative, founded by graphic design alum Joe Babcock, ’17, and Jeff Heras—gives students invaluable real-world experience and deepens the interdisciplinary spirit that makes Runway so impactful.”

Soudant also had the opportunity to revive the Runway magazine, which will be available for purchase at the event for $15.  Proceeds support students in both the Fashion and Textile Technology and Art and Design Departments.

Last year’s new addition, the Bengal Bodega, a pop-up boutique that celebrates Buffalo State University’s entrepreneurial spirit, will once again be available to shop in the lobby before and after the show. Eight student vendors will offer a curated selection of products including jewelry, pottery, vintage clothing, and embroidery.

“Bengal Bodega is a unique shopping experience,” said Dr. Ji Young Lee, FTT associate professor and Bengal Bodega co-director. “We have such talented entrepreneurs on campus.”

Bengal Bodega supports Milligan’s Food Pantry by contributing ten percent of its proceeds to combat food insecurity among students at Buffalo State.

New additions
Known for consistently expanding offerings and keeping the event fresh for annual attendees, the Runway team has put exciting new elements in place. 

This year’s experience will be elevated by several exciting new collaborations. Institutional Advancement is partnering with the show to support the Runway VIP experience; Elizabeth Grady, director of development events, is leading registration and guest engagement efforts.

“For the second year, New Era Cap is our presenting sponsor, stepping up in a way that truly matters for our students and our community,” Habes said. “I’m especially excited about the New Era Cap customization brand activation—VIP guests will get to choose from a collection of Intersectional Identity patches and heat-press them onto exclusive Runway New Era cap. It’s going to be such a fun, interactive VIP lounge—and a true celebration of creativity and collaboration.”

Additionally, the first 50 VIP guests to enter the lounge will receive a limited-edition custom tote bag designed by The Ruth Holley Studio in collaboration with Goodwill of Western New York, celebrating sustainability, creativity, and community.

“We’ve poured our hearts into this production—and now, it’s your turn to feel it,” said Alexis Roth, Runway’s co-student director. “Runway 2025 is not just a show; it’s a statement, and every designer, model, and team member has something powerful to say.” 

To learn more about Runway 2025 and to purchase tickets, please visit the Runway website. Admission is $20 for the general public and $100 for VIP access.

Belfer photo by kc kratt; Runway photos by Jesse Steffan-Colucci, Buffalo State photographer.