Pennoni Honors College

Message from the Dean

Congratulations to our Class of 2026 Custom-Designed Majors! On behalf of the entire Pennoni Honors College community, I applaud your achievements in reaching this major milestone. Each of you has forged your own unique pathway, driven by your ambition and desire to improve our world. Just as you succeeded at Drexel, we know you will continue to be successful no matter where your life's journey takes you next. The world will truly benefit as you apply the skills, knowledge and experiences you gained at Drexel to make a difference in the things that matter most. Always remember that you are now Forever Dragons and will join our growing Drexel alumni family. You will always have a home at the Pennoni Honors College, and we cannot wait to welcome you back. Go Dragons!

Neville Vakharia, PhD

About the Keynote Speaker

Kevin Matthews '14, one of the first graduates of Drexel University’s Custom-Designed Major, exemplifies the value of interdisciplinary thinking and adaptability in building a dynamic global career. Originally from Boston, Matthews moved to Philadelphia in 2008 to begin his studies at Drexel University, where he ultimately designed a course of study focused on the global fashion industry.

At Drexel, Matthews pursued a multidisciplinary approach, integrating sociology, history, economics and business to better understand the fashion industry. As a STAR Scholar, he explored the intersection of technology and textiles, and later conducted research on masculinity in menswear retail, culminating in a senior thesis that was presented at academic conferences and published in Critical Studies in Men's Fashion.

Following graduation, Matthews began his career at Urban Outfitters, where he advanced rapidly as a buyer, earning promotions and contributing to company-wide training initiatives. He later expanded his expertise through legal studies at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, including a year abroad at Sciences Po in Paris.

While completing his legal studies, Matthews transitioned back into the fashion industry, joining Dover Street Market Paris, where he supported the development of emerging brands at the intersection of creativity and commerce. He continued this work in Milan with Slam Jam before returning to Paris to lead global commercial strategy at CamperLab.

His career reflects a commitment to embracing change, bridging disciplines and fostering innovation within the global fashion landscape. It is with great pride that he returns to Drexel to share his journey with the next generation of graduates.