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Meet Our Faculty: Maria Skelton


Maria Skelton


Assistant Professor and Fashion Institute Internship Coordinator
School of Arts, Communication & Media
Fashion Institute

What she teaches:
Introduction to Fashion; Costume History; Intermediate Sewing; Pattern Drafting Essentials; Draping Fundamentals; Fashion Internship

Number of years teaching at SLCC:
14

Undergraduate degree:
Brigham Young University (BFA - Clothing and Textiles)


Why working at SLCC matters:
SLCC has the only fashion design and merchandising program in Utah, offering students access to topnotch education without leaving the state. SLCC has a large and diverse population and class sizes tend to be smaller, with many resources available to support students. SLCC is always working to improve access, equity, and completion – which make this an exciting and rewarding place to work.

Greatest professional challenge:
Finding ways to create and revise curriculum, and teach content encompassing the knowledge and skill sets necessary for success in the industry – while fitting everything into a 2-year AAS Degree program. My primary concern is that program graduates will be competitive in the industry.

Greatest professional accomplishment:
It’s been exciting and rewarding to see the process of continually revising the curriculum pay off in the student’s breadth of knowledge and skill sets. Student success is really at the heart of what makes teaching such a joy.


Advice for students or others:
I think it’s important for students to seek out academic advising, with program advisors, faculty, or administration (or all three).  Students who have advisors generally enjoy more effective academic and career planning, set realistic goals, and are more aware of college resources and support services, resulting in a more successful overall education experience.

Future plans:
Continuing to collaborate with our Fashion Institute faculty and program manager in order to improve and grow the fashion program. There are always changes happening in the industry and it is crucial to stay up with industry needs while continuing to find the best ways of serving our student population.

Family:
I have been married to my wonderful and supportive husband David for nearly 29 years, who is an attorney and businessman. We have three amazing children – two daughters – Alison, 21, and Elizabeth, 19, who are currently in college; and a son Daniel, 17, who is a high school senior and will be attending college next year.

Hobbies:
I love reading, sewing, knitting, and most artistic endeavors. I enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, canoeing, and camping, as well as gardening My favorite thing to do is hang out with my family.



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