Students Bring Style and Heart to Runway
Milan Institute of Cosmetology students in Reno transformed more than just hair and makeup on Friday, July 18 – they helped transform lives through the power of beauty and community service.
Talented students volunteered their skills and time to prepare models for “Recycle the Runway,” an innovative fashion show fundraiser hosted by Dress for Success Reno. This creative event challenged local designers to transform donated clothing into stunning runway-ready ensembles, all in support of empowering women to achieve economic independence.
A Perfect Partnership for Empowerment
Dress for Success Reno – Northern Nevada is the local affiliate of a global non-profit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing professional attire, support networks, and development tools. Their mission aligns beautifully with Milan Institute of Cosmetology’s commitment to community service and professional development.
For the cosmetology students, the event provided an invaluable opportunity. They were able to apply their skills in a real-world setting while giving back to their community.
Robin Walsh, Director at Milan Institute of Cosmetology Reno, couldn’t contain her enthusiasm about the event’s impact.
“I have been to a lot of fundraising events,” Robin said, “and this one was very impressive; very creative and dynamic and full of engaging activity.”
The positive energy was infectious, extending beyond the event’s creative elements to the students’ professional growth. Walsh noted the personal satisfaction her students experienced: “Our cosmetologist had a really good time preparing the runway models, and they looked so great in their full outfits!”
Building Skills Through Service
This type of community engagement aligns perfectly with Milan Institute’s broader mission of producing graduates who will be successful and of service to their community. The school regularly participates in community service initiatives, recognizing that real-world experience is essential for developing both technical skills and professional confidence.
Similar to other Milan Institute community partnerships, such as their collaboration with Vituity Cares Foundation to provide free haircuts at medical clinics for the homeless and underinsured, the Dress for Success event allowed students to practice their craft while making a meaningful difference.
A Creative Force for Good
As fashion shows like “Recycle the Runway” continue to gain popularity across the country, they offer powerful platforms for combining sustainability, creativity, and social impact. For the Milan Institute students who participated, the experience provided not just portfolio-building opportunities but also the satisfaction of using their emerging skills to help other women feel confident and beautiful.
The event exemplifies how beauty education extends far beyond the classroom, creating opportunities for students to develop both professional expertise and community connections that will benefit them throughout their careers. Through initiatives like this, Milan Institute of Cosmetology continues to fulfill its mission of meeting the needs of both students and employers while contributing meaningfully to the broader community.