UCM Fashion Merchandising

08/16/2026

Welcome to the UCM Fashion family Dr.Sung! She’s got her official merch and is ready!
Dr. Jihyun Sung earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Keimyung University in South Korea in 2015, followed by a Master of Science degree in Design and Merchandising from Colorado State University in 2017. She completed her Ph.D. in Consumer and Design Sciences at Auburn University in 2021. Following her doctoral studies, she served as a faculty member at Central Michigan University, where she taught courses and mentored students in fashion retailing, styling, and visual merchandising.
Her research interests include consumer behavior, emerging retail technologies, and visual merchandising, with a particular interest in how merchandising displays and evolving consumer perceptions and expectations of technology continue to shape the retail and fashion industries.

Sung will teach Principles of Fashion Merchandising, Professional Image Management, and Materials for Interior Furnishings. As an educator, Sung is passionate about preparing students for successful careers by connecting classroom learning with real-world applications and fashion industry trends. While teaching and research are important parts of her academic work, what truly motivates her is building close connections with her students and helping them find their own paths, explore opportunities, and prepare for their future careers.

08/11/2026

We want to recognize our 2025-2026 student award winners! Each year, outstanding fashion students are presented with awards for their hard work throughout their time in the UCM Fashion program.

Avery Barr was presented to the outstanding student award for her combined academic achievement, leadership and overall contribution as a student. Avery graduated in spring 2026 and is now working in the Kohl’s corporate office in product sourcing.

Rachel Gardner was the recipient of the leadership award for her contribution to the Fashion Shop. Rachel worked many hours making shirts, working at events, and contributing to the success of the Fashion Shop micro business. We appreciate her dedication and are excited that she has one more year with us.

Jey Earl was awarded the leadership award for Fashion Business Association. Jay was involved in FBA her whole time at UCM and served as president her last year at UCM. She provided a welcoming and fun atmosphere for the organization. Jey is now working as a management trainee at the Buckle.

Campbell Mayer was the first recipient of the Betty Doris Fitterling Smith scholarship. This scholarship was founded by Ms. Sarah Bailey in honor of her aunt Betty with the aim to help perpetuate the art of quilting.

During the same reception, Professor Melissa Abner received the College of Health Science and Technology faculty service award.

Congratulations to all of our student winners! We can’t wait to see what you continue to do in your future.

07/06/2026

Our department (SIST) at UCM is looking for a new office professional! You can see the description and apply at the link below.

1. Provide administrative support to include: plan, document, and monitor budgets. Provide financial guidance to the department chair and faculty regarding the status of accounts and approval expenses. Prepare weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual budget reports and reconciliation as requested. Adm...

05/27/2026

Congratulations to our spring and summer 2026 fashion graduates! We are proud of you and excited to see your next adventure.

05/26/2026

We're loving the spring S/S26 KCFW Magazine.
See the whole magazine https://www.magcloud.com/webviewer/3290471?__r=8890393&s=v

05/13/2026

Read about Avery’s journey and achievements as a fashion major at UCM.

Countdown to Commencement - Avery Barr 🎓

Avery Barr, a Fashion major and Computer Information Systems (CIS) minor from Savannah, Missouri, came to the University of Central Missouri (UCM) with a passion for fashion. Now she’s graduating with the knowledge, skills and experience needed to turn that passion into a career.

Tap or click the link to read Avery's full story: https://bit.ly/49sP9bj

The University of Central Missouri offers a community of support, allowing students to redefine what’s possible as they forge a path to their future. With help from faculty and staff, UCM students are empowered to be the heroes of their own stories and as we prepare for Spring 2026 Commencement, we're shining a spotlight on some of those stories.

04/06/2026

Join us for our annual Recycle, Restyle, Revamp Fashion Show to see how fashion can thoughtfully made with people and the planet in mind. This is part of UCM Earth Week events and opens for the Senior Showcase collections. It is free and open to the public. UCM Outdoors UCM Elliott Student Union

04/03/2026

We had another amazing experience at KC Fashion Week! A group of student ambassadors, joined by alumni, 2 students as PR interns, a student’s collection on the runway, and guests from the Alumni Foundation. What a great way for students to network, learn, and contribute to the KC Fashion Industry- thank you KCFW leadership and staff!