Near the intersection of Seventh Avenue and 39th Street in New York City’s garment district, a sculpture of a large, golden button stands suspended on a needle by silvery thread.
Photo, and header photo, by Rami Daud, senior photographer, University Communications and Marketing
The Big Button is a popular destination for Kent State University fashion students studying at Kent State University New York City Fashion, which is located nearby.
An Immersive Academic Experience
Kent State's New York City Fashion is located in the city’s garment district. Living in the city and visiting design and fabric houses or showrooms, retail stores, buying offices and other areas of the fashion industry are part of the immersive experience students receive in this study-away program.
Some of these experiences, including instructor-guided site visits, are part of a required class called the NYC Study Tour. Ann Walter, director of Kent State New York City Fashion, said the class provides students with a holistic view of the fashion industry.
“The purpose is for the students to have a better understanding of not just design or merchandising, but all aspects of the fashion industry,” she said.
Photo by Rami Daud, senior photographer, University Communications and Marketing
Kent State’s New York City location offers students in Kent State's School of Fashion unique opportunities that they wouldn’t be able to get anywhere else in the world. Courses are taught by instructors who have worked or are currently working in the fashion industry. Students have opportunities to network directly with industry professionals who can offer their insights into the inner workings of fashion. Plus, students have opportunities to complete internships with well-known fashion or fashion-related companies that call New York City home.
Photo by Rami Daud, senior photographer, University Communications and Marketing
The Story of the Big Button
The original Big Button was black. Erected in 1996, it was part of an information kiosk. As mobile devices became the go-to source of information, the kiosk became obsolete. The Big Button, however, was a beloved landmark, so when the kiosk went away, plans were made for a bigger, brighter button.
On Feb. 26, 2023, the new, golden Big Button was dedicated, as a continued celebration of the neighborhood’s rich history and dynamic future.
Photo courtesy of Kent State NYC Fashion