Custom Made Suits For Graduates Of CSFI Program At OSU-OKC

It’s graduation season and no matter what the capacity, after graduation, you really want to have a lasting impression, and that all starts with a great look.

It’s graduation day for the Center for Social Innovation, at OSU-OKC

“This program was created to answer what’s next,” said Ariel Moore, executive director for the CSFI program.

The program provides education and training for people coming out of jail, homelessness, substance abuse, domestic violence, and other challenges.

“Depending on where they are in their educational journey they could be graduating with a degree by the time they finish our program, but most of them are continuing the education either here or at a four year,” said Moore.

“I’ve been through twenty-six years of addiction, self-sabotage, bad choices, and became homeless,” said CSFI graduate Craig Smith.

Jonathan Triplett is the owner of Elm Grove Custom Suits, through his foundation, Custom Suits and Life Skills he provided custom-made tailored suits for each male graduate, giving them the confidence to go out into the world.

“It was very uplifting to be here today and partner with Oklahoma State and the CSFI program,” said Jonathan Triplett, owner of Custom Suits and Life Skills.

“Probably about two weeks ago they told me they were going to make me a suit, and it’s amazing. The fabric is amazing. They put my name right here on the inside,” said CSFI graduate Danny Ellerd.

“The suit, it brings out confidence, they said if you feel good, you look good, you look good, you feel good,” said CSFI graduate Antwan Warren.

For some it’s an adjustment, but one they can get used to.

“I haven’t worn a suit in about thirty-something years and this is majorly out of my comfort zone, but I look good today and I’m happy,” said Smith.

As the guys move forward into the next phase of their lives, they will do so in style.

“Job interviews, celebrations, just whatever the situation calls,” said Ellerd.

For these men, yes, clothes do matter,

“I’m ready to go, when I walk in, I feel like I belong like I belong in that meeting,” said Warren.

“To be a part of that process and to help empower them felt really great for our organization,” said Triplett.

For information about the CSFI program through OSU-OKC visit www.osuokc.edu/csfi

For information about Custom Suits and Life Skills or Elm Groove Custom Suits visit www.communitysuits.org or call 405.332.8787