St. Thomas University’s signature spring event celebrates student creativity, academic excellence, and Miami’s cultural flavor through fashion
Fast food, fashion, fine dining, and Florida designers take the stage
Over 700 fashion lovers and food enthusiasts are expected to gather on April 3, 2025, as St. Thomas University (STU) transforms its Miami Gardens campus into a runway-meets-gourmet wonderland for the fourth annual “Flourish” Fashion & Food Showcase.
Headlining designers Yas González and Project Runway Season 17 winner Jhoan Sebastian Grey will lead a night of cutting-edge fashion, joined by couture talents like Sharon Osp and The House of Suits. Meanwhile, culinary guests like Chef Richard Ingraham, Lorna’s Caribbean & American Grille, Texas Roadhouse, and Paella y Olé will serve up bold flavors for every palate.
But one of the biggest surprises? “McDCouture”—a student-designed fashion line using repurposed McDonald’s materials like fry boxes, McFlurry spoons, and Happy Meal containers. Created by St. Thomas University’s Fashion Merchandising and Design students, the collection redefines sustainable creativity.
A celebration of student talent, community sponsors, and STU’s growth
This year’s showcase isn’t just about style and flavor—it’s about opportunity. Nearly 100 students are helping organize the event, gaining hands-on experience in event planning, culinary arts, marketing, and design.
Local businesses and major sponsors like McDonald’s, E.C. Management Corp., La Tropical Beer, and the Lopez Family Foundation are backing the event. Proceeds fund study abroad opportunities and scholarships for students in St. Thomas University’s growing fashion and culinary programs.
Since 2018, St. Thomas University’s enrollment has soared by 78%, with new academic offerings that absorbed students from recently closed schools like the Miami International University of Art & Design and Johnson & Wales North Miami.
As President David A. Armstrong, J.D. leads the university through a $123 million expansion, including plans for a 99,000-square-foot nursing and STEM building, St. Thomas University proves it’s not only surviving in today’s academic landscape—it’s flourishing.
Don’t miss a beat — Stay connected!
Want more stories like this? Subscribe to the Calle Ocho News newsletter for exclusive coverage on education, community events, and local success stories. Are you a local business or brand ready to connect with South Florida’s vibrant audience? Contact Pressnet Corp. to explore advertising opportunities with Calle Ocho News — your gateway to the heart of Miami.
Add Comment