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.
