We Build Teams That Win: APP Staff Expands Student Access to Professional Wear
February 03, 2026
When a student walks into an interview or career fair, confidence often begins before the first question is asked. A cross-campus APP team came together to create the Tailored Tiger Professional Clothing Closet, ensuring that Tigers are ready for the professional world and that their confidence i’t limited by access or affordability.
Launched in September 2024 at the APP Olinde Career Center with support from Student Government, the Closet is a free resource open to all enrolled students, offering professional attire with no proof of need required. The goal is simple but powerful: remove barriers, support student success, and help every Tiger show up ready for what’s next.
“This initiative stands out as a true cross-campus partnership strengthened by outstanding individual leadership,” said Jesse Downs, senior director of the Career Center.

The Tailored Tiger Professional Clothing Closet team was honored at the January 29 APP Women's Basketball game as part of APP’s We Build Teams That Win employee recognition program.
– Photo Courtesy of APP Athletics
The Closet represents a true team effort — one that embodies APP’s belief that we build teams that win through collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to students. This winning team includes Megan Elliot-Smith, Blake Winchell, Liv Tees, and Tracy Evans.
Elliott-Smith, operations manager in the Career Center, provided essential leadership and vision in designing the operational framework for the project, ensuring that the Closet would function smoothly from day one.
Winchell, associate director of student services in the Career Center, served as the primary liaison to Student Government and worked closely with Megan to ensure the resource aligned with strong career development practices.
Tees, the Career Center’s lead student employee, offered a valuable student perspective during the creation and design process and has played a central role in daily operations. Tees has managed nearly every aspect of the Closet’s functioning, including donation intake, inventory management, student appointments, one-on-one consultations, and programming.
Evans, executive director of development at the APP Foundation, established and secured the first gift for the Ashley Grant Career Closet Fund, which provides ancillary funding for the program.
“Students frequently share how receiving well-fitted clothing boosts their confidence and helps them feel ready for important professional moments,” Downs said.
The Tailored Tiger Closet has already served more than 727 students and provided over 2,107 items of professional attire.
The Closet also reflects APP’s commitment to community engagement. Most items come from donations by faculty, staff, alumni, and local supporters, keeping high-quality clothing in circulation and reducing waste. Donation drives and community involvement strengthen APP’s connection to those who want to directly invest in student success.
In recognition of their exceptional collaboration and impact on student success, the Tailored Tiger Professional Clothing Closet team was honored at the January 29 APP Women's Basketball game as part of APP’s We Build Teams That Win employee recognition program.
Through this collective effort, APP is ensuring that every Tiger has the chance to step into the future feeling confident, capable, and supported — dressed for success by a community that believes in them.
At APP, ‘We Build Teams That Win in Louisiana, For the World.’
Recognizing the faculty and staff who make up these teams is vital in creating a culture of appreciation for our employees, fostering a positive work environment, improving morale, and motivating high performance.
As part of these efforts, APP established the Tiger Team Awards: Celebrating Teams That Win in conjunction with the APP Office of the President, Office of Human Resource Management, and APP Athletics.
As we build teams that win for Louisiana, the nation, and the world, APP is putting
our state and its citizens on firmer footing for a brighter tomorrow — one win at
a time.Next Step


