Summer is in full swing, and we have come to mid-way point of the PiPN 2010 internships.   Sherry and I have been very excited to hear from the participants about their experiences thus far and what they have been learning in their placements. 

This year’s turnout was fantastic, and it felt very rewarding to see the entire process through.  It was no easy task to get to this point.  There were ups and downs, but I can say I positively learned so much and feel great about what was accomplished. 

It took time to get information out there to students and graduates about the PiPN program and what it has to offer.  I’m continually impressed by the number of people who are so passionate about fiber and needlearts, and how many were so excited to learn this program was available.   This year the number of applicants quadrupled compared to years before and we were able to place twenty-one students (twice last year’s numbers) from around the country.  It has been wonderful to see the improvements in the program and also the success of changes from years past. 

A great benefit of the program is the Alumnae Group.  PiPN students who satisfactorily complete the program attain alumnae status.  This allows them to attend trade shows and stay in the loop with TNNA and the PiPN program for two years past their internships.

I’m looking forward to keeping the alumnae a tight nit group and to keep them active in TNNA and the PiPN program.  This summer, I personally was able to reconnect with a friend I met while participating in PiPN at The University of Akron.   It had been a year since I had seen her, so it was great to be able to catch up.  The PiPN Alumnae Group made it all possible.

The weekend during the trade show in Columbus was also a blast.  The PiPN group met at the convention center downtown Friday evening for the fashion show.  This was my third show, and I’ve enjoyed the fashion show each time.  There are always a couple great standout pieces.  The collection also featured a former PiPN Student Design Competition Winner as well as a former Project Runway winner!! 

The actual trade show Saturday and Sunday was outstanding.  I am always impressed by the time and energy the exhibitors put into their booths.  I enjoy walking around to each and seeing the great displays of merchandise and products.  The energy at the shows is always a pleasure to be around.  There is an excitement and buzz in the room, which I see each time.

I’m excited and looking forward to what is next for the PiPN program.  In the last couple years I’ve been a part of it, the program has continued to develop and grow.  Exciting opportunities are just around the corner.  I’m also looking forward to hearing back from our summer participants, and we will be posting their blogs on the website for everyone to enjoy.

Until next time,
Kristi Schwechheimer
PiPN Alumnae Coordinator