April 24, 2017

Last term Design & Merchandising students partnered with SEAMAAC, an organization whose mission is to support immigrants, refugees, and their families as they seek access to opportunities that will advance the condition of their lives in the United States. SEAMAAC acknowledges the indescribable challenges that immigrants and refugees face in their pursuit for freedom,  and is dedicated to aiding refugees in adapting, surviving, and succeeding in this country.

Students were enlisted to create and install store displays and windows for the 7th Street Corridor, between Wolf Street and Snyder Avenue in South Philadelphia. This area of the city is an emerging neighborhood that supports a diverse group of immigrants, refugees, and their families, creating a unique environment that combines a variety of backgrounds and influences in one district.

The retailers that were selected for participation varied across store type and cultural background, including Nusantara, a local convenience store; No.1 Chinese Express, a take-out restaurant; No.1 Market, a produce, seafood and meat market; and Sav-More, a pharmacy. Students were faced with the challenges of bridging language barriers and becoming acquainted with and utilizing new cultural influences and understandings. Armed with these new skillsets, students were able to better impact window design changes and drive new traffic to the businesses.

To learn more about the Design & Merchandising program and the many opportunities it houses, click here.