Noelle Stamm '26 is more than a fashion student. She is a thoughtful creator who draws inspiration from music, culture, and the people around her. She is also a well-rounded individual, balancing hands-on fashion experience with leadership, business coursework, and community involvement. Style, for her, is both self-expression and a way to explore identity and artistry. 

Why Marist?

A Fashion Merchandising major with a concentration in Promotion and a Business minor, Noelle chose Marist because it offered a fashion education grounded in creativity, community, and real-world experience.

“Once I discovered that I could actually major in fashion merchandising, my heart was really set on Marist,” Noelle said. “I’ve always been super passionate about fashion, and the idea of turning that passion into a career was exciting. I also wanted variety and something that would challenge me, which is why I chose to add the business minor.”

Originally from Buffalo, N.Y., Noelle knew she didn’t want a fashion school experience that felt narrow or detached from the larger university environment. Marist offered both a strong fashion program and a close-knit, supportive community that encouraged growth and exploration.

Faculty, Fashion, and Support

“The fashion merchandising program has been incredible. Who you learn from matters so much,” Noelle said. “Our faculty are highly experienced and really invested in our success.”

Noelle credits her professors with helping her build confidence and stay focused on her goals. Their guidance encouraged her to stretch creatively, take risks, and develop a clear, personal perspective.

Learning by Doing in the Steel Plant

Experiential learning has defined her time at Marist, from the Silver Needle Runway Fashion Show Production to courses that turn theory into practice. 

The Steel Plant, home to fashion, art, and design programs, has been central to that experience.

“We’re really lucky to have a building designed for collaboration. You learn alongside design students, fine arts students, and other creatives. It’s a space where ideas become real.”

The Maker Lab became a particularly meaningful space for her. There, she experimented with apparel production, embroidery, vinyl heat transfer, and photography. Even though she is not a fashion design major, she took advantage of every resource available.

From Passion to Profession

Noelle began exploring the fashion industry early. She started a custom apparel business in high school, creating hoodies and sweatshirts for friends, clubs, and sports groups. Later, her work at Aerie in high school and on college breaks helped her gain sales and merchandising experience.

Her path has come full circle, recently accepting a full-time job offer. After graduation, Noelle will join American Eagle Outfitters as an assistant merchant following a 16-week training program. She is excited to bring her creativity, merchandising knowledge, and collaborative mindset into a professional environment post-graduation. 
 

Paris as a Classroom

“Paris is the most iconic fashion city in the world,” Noelle said, describing her semester abroad as a transformative experience that shaped her professional and personal journey.

She would learn about trends and industry history in the classroom, then step outside into streets lined with curated boutiques, chic cafes, and cutting-edge Parisian style. Everywhere she turned, people were effortlessly tailored, bold, and avant-garde, making the city itself feel like an extension of the classroom.

“Living there for four months was the best time of my life. The personal growth, the friendships, the beauty of the city; it was unforgettable.”

Her favorite place to reflect was along the Seine. 

“Being there always grounded me. Whether I was stressed about school or travel, sitting by the river with a view of the Eiffel Tower reminded me how lucky I was to be there. My friends and I would picnic there with wine, cheese, and baguettes. It was magical.”

Finding Confidence in Community

“I would describe the Marist community as passionate, supportive, and tight-knit. People here really want to see each other succeed.”

Her involvement as Chief Communications Officer for the Student Government Association allowed her to help shape campus culture while developing her leadership and communication skills. Through her Tri Sigma Sorority partnership with the Liberty Partnership Program, she also supported local students with mentorship and academic encouragement.

These experiences helped her gain confidence and build meaningful connections across campus.

Music and Style

Music influences Noelle’s creative process and her personal style. She builds playlists for different moods and draws inspiration from artists like Tyler, The Creator, Kendrick Lamar, and The Marías. Her style leans into what she calls "polished streetwear" with playful, expressive details and accessories, often including her headphones as part of her outfit. For her, fashion is about presence, comfort, and personality.

Embracing Possibility

“The growth I’ve experienced here means everything to me. The belonging, the connections, the academics. It all comes together in a way that feels meaningful.”

Marist has been a place where she learned she does not have to choose a single identity.

“You can be a leader and an artist. You can explore what you love and try something new. When you lean into that, everything opens up.”

Noelle’s Advice

“There was a time early on when I struggled to find my place. The turning point was stepping outside my comfort zone. Get involved. Say yes to new things. There’s something here for everyone, but you have to take the first step.”

Inspired to do More

In our "Inspired to do More" series students, faculty, staff, and alumni share their unique Marist journeys. In Marist's "and, not or" spirit, these members of our community have embraced diverse opportunities, excelling in academics, activities, leadership, and service. Each story highlights how Marist's values inspire them to pursue excellence, connect with others, and make a meaningful impact.