Polaris launches fashion design and merchandising program with industry leader at the helm

MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, Ohio — Polaris Career Center will launch a new Fashion Design and Merchandising Program in fall 2026, partnering with Kent State University’s School of Fashion.

Internationally recognized designer Jevon Terance will lead the two-year offering.

The program will be housed at Berea-Midpark High School and will be open to students from all six Polaris partner high schools, according to Polaris.

It is designed to immerse students in the fashion industry, from design and production to trend forecasting, branding and retail strategy, while offering hands-on experience.

Doug Miller, director of marketing and community engagement for Polaris Career Center, said the new program grew out of a desire to expand career-technical options and a survey that showed strong student interest.

“We’re committed to providing cutting-edge career-technical programs that open exciting opportunities for students,” Miller said.

“When we identified a unique program need, we partnered with the Kent State University School of Fashion to help design a meaningful higher-education pathway.

“We also surveyed students across our six partner school districts to assess demand and the response was overwhelmingly positive.

“Based on this strong interest, we hope to fill the program this fall.”

Miller said Terance stood out among candidates because of his experience and the connections he can bring to students.

“Jevon brings nearly 20 years of industry experience and a lifetime dedicated to fashion,” Miller said.

“His background, expertise and professional connections will make this program truly shine.

“With a passion for the fashion industry and an unmatched commitment to mentoring young people, we’re thrilled to have him leading this exciting new program.”

Terance, a Lorain resident, is the founder and owner of the Jevon Terance Fashion Line, established in 2007, according to Polaris.

His work has appeared on major fashion stages, including multiple appearances at New York Fashion Week between 2018 and 2025 and a Paris Fashion Week presentation in 2015.

Polaris said his boutique is based in Lorain and his work is represented through showrooms in Miami and New York City.

Polaris also cited Terance’s youth education work, including teaching programs that involve sewing, sneaker design and fashion technology.

Polaris said he mentors Kent State students for university credit through a program tied to the university.

The new Polaris program is intended to go beyond traditional high school art or sewing classes by connecting students to industry expectations and providing a college-aligned pathway, Miller said.

“Thanks to our partnership with Kent State University, students will have a direct pathway to college if that’s the direction they choose,” Miller said.

“In addition, they’ll be exposed to the broad scope of the fashion industry, including design, production, trend forecasting, merchandising, marketing and more.”

Kent State’s School of Fashion is working with Polaris to ensure that the coursework aligns with the university’s curriculum.

Kent State will also help promote the program, Miller said.

“As noted earlier, Kent State University’s School of Fashion is working closely with us to help design this program so it aligns seamlessly with their curriculum,” Miller said.

“They are also committed to supporting promotion efforts and are willing to take their resources on the road to highlight the fashion industry, our program and this valuable partnership with Kent State.”

Miller said students who complete the program will be prepared for a range of entry-level jobs after graduation, including retail sales, visual merchandising and marketing roles.

Additional education can open doors to careers such as fashion design, buying, retail management, branding and costume design.

“The fashion design and merchandising field offers a wide range of opportunities, from entry-level roles to careers that require additional education and training,” Miller said.

“With further education, graduates can pursue careers as fashion designers, buyers, retail managers, marketing or brand coordinators, fashion show coordinators, costume designers and more.”

For more information, Polaris encourages interested sophomores and parents to visit its website or contact Julie McGarey, assistant principal, at 440-692-2110.

Applications for the 2026-27 school year are now being accepted.

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