Opportunity Knocks at this Closet Door
Sitting in a cushioned chair in the social gathering area of the Male Resource Center (MRC) Jamal Biggs, Director of the MRC, reflected on what motivated him to create the Vault, a collection of pre-loved professional attire available for students. “The inspiration was the result of talking with students over time about their goals to be successful not just in the classroom but when attending professional networking opportunities and other events. Out of these talks grew the idea to provide an additional resource, one that can help MRC students further develop personal, social and leadership skills –get that extra boost when it comes time to apply to a four-year school or interview for a job.”
The Vault, located in the Upper Level of the Student Union across from the MRC, has a wardrobe to do just that.
It is a gleaming and spacious walk-in closet with glass panels, allowing students to see the wide selection of clothing and accessories. The Vault also includes a dressing room.
“Ideally, we would like students to make an appointment to browse the closet but we understand that last-minute opportunities come up so we want to help in any way we can to assist them pick out what they would like to wear.”
Donations are accepted on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:00pm-5:00pm. The clothing that is accepted are new/gently used suits, blazers, dress pants, polo shirts, ties, blouses, and dresses. Shoes will be available however donations are not accepted for shoes.
Jamal expressed his deep appreciation for the support the MRC Vault has received through the Alliance Bernstein Gives (ABGives) and The Robinhood Foundation. He noted the great ongoing support of faculty and staff to help stock the Vault.
The center welcomes all Queensborough students, faculty, and staff without regard to race, gender, national origin, and other characteristics. Services offered at the Male Resource Center are designed to address systematic barriers that often prevent self-identified Black and Latino males from reaching degree completion, including leadership training, mentorship opportunities, academic tutoring, career counseling, specialized employment and internship opportunities, and community events. The Male Resource Center is a landmark achievement for Queensborough geared toward creating, positive, lifechanging differences for all students with transformational, inclusive, and equitable opportunities that will ensure academic success is strengthened by a sense of connection and belonging.
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