Seniors Kelli Alfieri and Lauren Sciacca created and coordinated Mission ImPROMible during their sophomore year. This year was the Communication Club’s third successful year hosting the event, held on Sept. 14 and 15 on 2nd floor Admin. Not only were students of Seton Hill University (SHU) shopping, there were people of the Greensburg community browsing the packed clothing racks, as well.
The event carried over 400 gowns, each priced under $100, 75% off the retail value. The dresses were donated from different local prom dress boutiques including: The Exquisite Bride, The Winner, The Prom Shoppe and The White Orchid. Notable designers and lines included Tony Bowls, Jovani, Maggie Soretto and Riva.
Alfieri’s employment at bridal boutique The Exquisite Bride played a major role in making this event a success each year. “Working at Exquisite Bride has helped me so much with Mission ImPROMible! I already had connections with several stores for donations and knew when they would be getting rid of old stock. It also taught me how to manage difficult customers, how to get girls excited about the dress, and what alterations could be done to make it look even better.”
This semester, the proceeds from this sale will go to The Communication Association for various community outreach initiatives. Over 60 gowns were sold during the two-day sale. “The sale was a complete success for us. We are continually surprised by the outreach that our event has achieved and the support from the community,” Sciacca said.
Sequins, polka dots, plaid, feathers, ruffles and animal prints were all present at the Communication Club’s Mission ImPROMible. “It is a chance to wear an adorable cocktail gown that may be too dressy or glitzy for a recital, wedding, etc. We sold short and long and it was just something the girls felt like they could have a good time in!” said Alfieri.
Mission ImPROMible has cumulatively raised approximately $15,000 for various local, national and international charities, such as Mission Honduras and Keep A Breast Foundation. “Generally each semester we pick a different charity to support. We did Mission Honduras for two semesters, Keep a Breast one semester, and the Communication Club for two semesters. This time we donated to the Club to help fund our different community outreach programs.” said Alfieri.