This Spring semester, Fashion Design students gathered in the FIT building for “Vested Interest,” an engaging workshop on how to create a “high-end” vest conducted by Professor Blackman over the course of three dynamic sessions. The event began with details of the history of vests, highlighting how the garment has evolved over the years yet still remains timeless. Professor Blackman also explained how, although the vest requires less fabric and CMT (Cut, Make, Trim) effort than a shirt, its perceived value is much higher — a theme that carried on throughout the entirety of the workshop.
Students then observed a hands-on demonstration focused on creating a welt pocket, a feature traditionally used for formal wear. Professor Blackman emphasized how welt pockets are smaller and more refined than regular pockets, helping to enhance the sophistication of a garment. Students were then shown how to properly fuse the bias on the vest using an iron, a technique that both strengthens the fabric and creates a cleaner sewing line, elevating the craftsmanship and value of the piece.
Throughout the workshop, Professor Blackman showed students the step-by-step process of making a vest, from cutting fabric to skilled sewing techniques. Highlighting both machine sewing and hand-sewing methods, the workshop provided an insightful introduction to tailoring work. The importance of precise handwork, a trademark of tailoring, was a key takeaway for all participants.
By the end of the workshop, students had gained valuable technical skills and insights for the art of tailoring and the construction of vests. Professor Blackman showed great expertise and passion, helping participants to approach their work with greater focus on detail and craftsmanship, highlighting FIT’s commitment to providing career-driven insight into the world of fashion and giving students a memorable look into the world of tailoring and design.
On November 27, the Department of Technology and Society hosted a warm and festive Thanksgiving Dinner in the SUNY Korea Lounge, bringing together students and faculty for an evening of community and celebration. As the department’s first-ever Thanksgiving gathering, the event served as a meaningful opportunity to share cultures and create new traditions together. The event not only offered students the opportunity to share a holiday meal with members of the department but also fe
SUNY Korea students came together in B105 on November 26, 2025, for Smart Career Building with AI, a hands-on career readiness workshop hosted by the Career Development Center in partnership with the TSM faculty. Led by Professor Joseph S. Cabuay, the session offered students a practical look at how AI can support their professional journeys, while reminding them that technology works best when guided by thoughtful and responsible humans. Throughout the workshop, students explored t
On November 21st, 2025, SUNY Korea marked the end of the year with a spectacular Year-End Party themed Prom – Masquerade Party. Hosted at the IGC Dining Hall, the event brought together more than 100 attendees including students, faculty, and staff, with friends and family members also joining in the celebration. The evening commenced at 6 PM with a warm welcome from the event’s MCs, Yasemin and Jeongmin, followed by a toast from SUNY Korea President Arthur Lee. The j
The 2025 SUNY Korea Research Challenge once again showcased the energy, curiosity, and dedication of its students and faculty. This year’s event brought together a total of 59 teams, including 33 from Stony Brook University (SBU), 16 from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and, for the first time, 10 teams from GLOCAL, a new initiative designed to promote collaboration between students, faculty, and industry partners. The challenge continued its mission of nurturing innova
On Wednesday, November 12th, 2025, SUNY Korea hosted a special seminar titled “The History of Western Music through Cello Works,” featuring guest lecturer and professional cellist Dr. Sae Rom Kwon alongside collaborative pianist Dr. Hyo Jung Song. The event brought together students, faculty, and classical music enthusiasts for an insightful journey through the evolution of Western music. Dr. Kwon opened the session with an introduction to how musical styles and f