April 04, 2014

ConKerr Cancer is a non-profit organization whose mission is to comfort children with life-changing illnesses, by providing cheery pillowcases and sewing lessons to brighten what is often a frightening hospital stay. After ConKerr founder Cindy Kerr and her husband visited the College, our Fashion Program was enthusiastic about getting involved with the cause to help brighten children’s lives.

Students in our Construction Skills class handpicked fabrics to create 28 pillowcases for chronically ill children served by the organization. Under the instruction of Professors Anita Dennis and JaeYoon Jeong, and with the help of Fashion graduate assistants, students designed the pillowcases using a pattern provided by ConKerr.

Westphal’s work with ConKerr continued at the organization’s annual benefit on March 21^st, held at the Please Touch Museum in Fairmount Park. Children of all ages and their families attended in their best pajamas for a night of exploring, carousel riding and dancing. Students in our Graphic Design and Design & Merchandising programs, with help from Graphic Design Professor Jody Graff and Design & Merchandising Professor Nick Cassway, designed and built a photo booth for the event that featured four different background choices—each inspired by childhood dreams—including a space adventure, a royal castle, an underwater scene and a superhero experience. Children and their families took pictures in the booth and used props designed by our students. The photo booth was a huge success, and will soon be in the URBN Center Lobby (3501 Market St.) for all to indulge in taking whimsical selfies. To learn more about ConKerr Cancer, click here.