EMU Today

YPSILANTI — Eastern Michigan University celebrity fashion icon and alumna Desyrée Nicole plans to return to campus for a series of events to kick off EMU's annual celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day, an observance held during the first week of February to commemorate progress towards equality in women's sports. The campus experience is slated for Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2024. Nicole earned her bachelor's degree in art and graphic design and will provide the EMU community and fashion enthusiasts an opportunity to engage, learn, and network. 

Nicole, the visionary founder of TODD PATRICK, a luxury menswear label based in New York City, earned national recognition for her exceptional talent and creativity by participating in Netflix's ‘Next in Fashion Season 2.’ Her journey from EMU's women's basketball star, holding the starting position as a point guard and having a Mid-American Conference Championship under her belt, to a celebrated figure in the fashion industry is an inspiring example of pursuing your passion and achieving success.

"As a former student of EMU, this visit holds a special place in my heart," said Nicole. "Returning to my alma mater is not just a homecoming; it's a reminder of where my journey began. It's a testament to the incredible opportunities and support I received here. Coming back as a leader in the fashion industry means a lot because I can inspire the next generation of EMU students and show them that dreams can become a reality."

Students will have the opportunity to participate in the following events with Nicole:

• "Ask Me Anything" Session: Nicole will host an insightful "Ask Me Anything" session, where attendees can gain valuable insights into her career, experiences, and the world of high-end menswear fashion. This interactive session will begin at 3:30 p.m. in the Student Center Auditorium at 900 Oakwood St. in Ypsilanti.
• Alumni Athlete Panel: At 5 p.m., attendees can visit the George Gervin GameAbove Center, located at 799 N Hewitt Rd in Ypsilanti, for an engaging Alumni Athlete panel. Nicole and other accomplished alumni athletes will share their transition stories and accomplishments beyond their athletic careers.
• Student-Alumni Mixer: Following the panel, at 6 p.m., students and alumni are invited to connect and network.
• Halftime Show Style Walk: The highlight of the day will be the Halftime Show Style Walk during the women’s basketball game against the University of Akron at 7 p.m. Nicole will lend her expert eye to critique current student fashions. Participants will be able to witness her fashion insights and celebrate the fusion of sports and style. Tickets can be purchased on the webpage to attend this event

This visit aligns with Eastern's strategic plan to promote student success and engagement. All events are open to the EMU community. For more information, please contact Brittany Mobley at bmobley1@emich.edu.

About Desyrée Nicole
Desyrée Nicole, founder and creative director of Todd Patrick began cultivating the brand in 2016. With no formal training specific to design and being completely self-taught, she attributes a lot of her brand development to the New York hustle. She began to dive into timeless architecture within fashion and how to navigate it for a modern approach. The brand entirely took on life in 2019 with her first collection of work. Des’ was born and raised in Waterford, Michigan, and takes many of her hometown's Midwest elements throughout her design journey. To learn more, visit the TODD PATRICK website.

About Eastern Michigan University
Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.