Scholars Launch Collegiate’s First In-House Uniform Store

When Collegiate’s previous uniform vendor unexpectedly closed its storefront last fall, a group of high school students saw an opportunity not just to solve a problem, but to build a business.

What began as a project in Mr. Grimm’s Business Adventures class quickly evolved into tangible development of an in-house Collegiate uniform store. From researching vendors to pitching a plan to school leadership, five students took ownership of the process, gaining firsthand experience in business strategy and collaboration.

The team got to work by reaching out to local schools and vendors to learn how a school based uniform store could operate. They connected with a Memphis-area school that operates a similar in-house uniform store, and scheduled a meeting with a local supply vendor that could help bring Collegiate’s vision to life.

Each student contributed in a different way, whether it was designing marketing materials, researching pricing, or managing communication. “We had to balance different personalities and ideas,” Taylor (CSM Class of 2026) added. “It really taught us how to be patient with each other and work like a team.”

One of the goals of the store was to make uniforms more accessible and affordable for Collegiate families. “The old uniforms were more expensive,” Chrisan (CSM Class of 2026) said. “And families had to drive far just to get one item.”

Ms. Alvarado, Collegiate’s Student Finance Coordinator, who is now leading the implementation of the store, said she was proud of the students’ initiative. “They saw a problem and they wanted to fix it,” she said. “When they realized the school was going to take their idea seriously, they were elated and proud of the change they were creating.”

Mr. Grimm said the experience gave students a hands-on understanding of how businesses function. “It mirrors what they would experience in a real business or organization, giving them hands-on practice in a setting that feels authentic. They’re able to exercise nearly every skill we hope to develop in our students including communication, both written and verbal, creativity, confidence in their ideas, and the ability to apply those ideas in real learning situations.”

Beyond logistics and planning, these scholars say the experience has changed how they think about business and their own potential. “I respect business owners more now,” said Taylor. “There’s a lot that goes into it.”

Chrisan echoed that sentiment: “We now have real business experience. I think that’s a really valuable thing to have as we are putting together our resumes for future jobs and for college.”

The new uniform store is scheduled to open in July and will provide affordable, convenient uniform options for Collegiate families. More than that, it is a lasting reminder of what students can accomplish when given the tools and trust to lead.

Want to help a Collegiate scholar start the school year with confidence? Give to our uniform fund and make sure every student is equipped for success. Click the link below to give.