Written by Ashley Wehrs, Images sourced from @scaddotedu and @mechalroe
Jan. 20 was an undeniable celebration of democracy. The inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris was and is a testament to the power of patience, perseverance and the dedication of volunteers who would not call a win without counting every vote. Throughout the inauguration, surrounding media, and even the campaign trail, SCAD alumni have been there every step of the way:
1. Designer and Founder of the Christopher John Rogers Brand, Christopher John Rogers
Alumnus Christopher John Rogers (B.F.A fashion 2016) created Harris’s standout Inauguration outfit; a stunning purple coat and matching dress.
2. Photographer and Director Kelia Anne MacCluskey
Alumna Kelia Anne MacCluskey (B.F.A. photography 2016) photographed President Biden for Time Magazine and Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman for the New York Times. “I only had about one minute with Joe. I’ve never been under so much pressure in my life,” MacCluskey said.
3. Creative Designer, Author and Illustrator Mechal Renee Roe
Alumna Mechal Renee Roe, who studied illustration, fashion and multimedia in 2005, illustrated the No. 1 New York Times bestseller “Superheroes Are Everywhere,” authored by Vice President Harris.
4. Textile Designer Sydney Benda
Alumna Sydney Benda (B.F.A. fashion 2016) designed the floral print on Senator Amy Klobuchar’s mask. Benda originally created the print (along with several others) for Target’s Universal Thread brand. The prints were used to create masks, blouses, dresses and more. Klobuchar’s choice was a delightful surprise.
5. Fashion Designer Jonathan Cohen
SCAD Fashion mentor Jonathan Cohen dressed First Lady Dr. Jill Biden during the ringing of bells ceremony in honor of the lives lost from COVID-19.
