The International Academy of Design and Technology found its way to San Antonioin April 2007. One year ago, the Academy–San Antonio opened its doors to studentsacross the San Antonio community.
With opportunities to earn specialized Associate Degrees in Graphic Design and FashionDesign and Marketing, the Academy is an established national institution that providesindividuals the chance to gain the skills needed for a career in design. Creative expressionis encouraged in all aspects of the learning experiences and interactive, hands–on teachingis a hallmark of all instruction at the Academy. The Academy welcomes students from adiversity of backgrounds as they set their sights on succeeding in the world of design andfashion.
Lisa Kamenick, who was recently named President of theAcademy–San Antonio, understands the importance of enhancingminds and preparing students for their future careeropportunities.
“The Academy students have the advantage of learningfrom industry professionals. Many of the instructors not onlyhave a degree in their field, but they have significant industryexperience,” she said. “In fact, many of our faculty members areadjunct – meaning they teach part–time and work in their fieldfull–time. This enables Academy students to consistently obtainindustry current knowledge.” Academy students can earn a degreein as little as eighteen months.
With the extensive variety of post–secondary educationalopportunities available, the Academy understands the value ofseeking success in San Antonio’s creative community. “Manystudents come in with some experience in our industry buthave not attained a degree to back up the experience. Othersare new to their program of choice and are engaged with facultyin learning about the industry. Those with some backgroundprior to starting classes will be challenged to expand and developtheir own talents.”
On April 2, the Academy–San Antonio welcomed prospectivestudents and the city of San Antonio to experience the college’sfacilities and programs. Nick Verreos, Project Runway–Season 2 celebrity, hosted Imagine 2008, the official grandopening and fashion show at the Academy.
The spring event showcased the designs of the Academy’sown students, highlighting their fashion expertise and creativity.More than 450 people enjoyed tours of the facilities, opportunitiesto experience the classroom environment and wereentertained by models strutting the students’ designs down thecatwalk.
“The most satisfying aspect of working at IADT is to watcheach student grow professionally and intellectually,” Kamenickremarked. “As we approach our first graduation class, the facultyand staff feel a sense of pride. The campus is small and is itsown community—it feels very much like a family. There is realjoy as we assist our students in preparing for their futures.”
In the last 25 years, the Academy has grown to include morethan ten locations nationwide, including Chicago, Las Vegas,Seattle and Tampa. Founded by Clem Stein, Jr., a former Searsexecutive, the original Academy was created as a post–secondaryeducation focused on merchandising and design.
The Academy is honored to make its new home in thenorthwest region of a city with as much culture and history asSan Antonio, and looks forward to becoming an integral part ofthe community.
“One of our goals is to continue to bring extraordinary designtalent to the San Antonio area,” said Kamenick. “We wantour students to set a standard of excellence for design in thearea and to contribute to the development of the city as an innovativedesign hub, both locally and nationally.”
