Cardinal Create Conference

Cardinal Create is an annual fall conference designed specifically for middle and high school students interested in fashion design, fashion merchandising, interior design, interior merchandising and management. This dynamic, hands-on event brings students to the University of the Incarnate Word campus to explore creative careers, experience college life and connect with industry professionals.Student putting fabric on a mannequin

Teachers can register their class for this free, educational experience that combines career exploration, professional insights and interactive workshops.

What Students Will Experience:

Campus & Facilities Tours

Explore our state-of-the-art fashion labs, design studios, and campus facilities to envision your future in higher education.

Current Student & Professional Panel

Connect with UIW fashion management and interior design students who share their college experiences and tips for success. Hear directly from fashion designers, merchandisers, interior designers and industry leaders about their career paths and advice for aspiring creatives.

Hands-On Creative Workshops

Participate in interactive sessions where you'll work alongside current students and faculty on real design challenges and creative projects.

Register Your Class for Fall 2026

Registration for Cardinal Create Fall 2026 will open in August 2026!

Important Registration Details:

  • Class size limit: 20 students per class to ensure we can accommodate multiple schools and provide quality experiences
  • Teacher supervision required: Teachers must remain with their students throughout the conference
  • Each student MUST complete the media and liability form to attend: students and guardians must complete the online liability waiver and media release form in order to attend the event.
  • Who can attend: Students in grades 7-12
  • Cost: Free for all registered students and supervising teachers

Space is limited and fills quickly. Register early to secure your spot! Registration will open late summer 2026.

Every student must complete a Student Waiver and Release Form before attending the event. 

Who Should Attend Cardinal Create?

Cardinal Create is designed for students in grades 7-12 who:

fashion student working on a floor plan
  • Are considering careers in fashion design, fashion merchandising, interior design, interior merchandising and management
  • Want to explore creative business and entrepreneurship opportunities
  • Are curious about college programs in design fields
  • Enjoy hands-on creative work and want to try new techniques

Teachers from fashion, art, design, business and career exploration classes are encouraged to bring their students.

Why Attend Cardinal Create?

  • Free admission for all registered students and teachers (grades 7-12)
  • College credit exploration – learn about fashion and interior design degree programs
  • Career discovery – explore diverse paths in creative industries
  • Professional networking – connect with industry experts and educators
  • Hands-on learning – experience what design education really looks like
  • Campus experience – see UIW's facilities and feel the college atmosphere
  • Small group setting – limited to 20 students per class for personalized attention

Questions About Cardinal Create?

For more information about the Cardinal Create Student Conference, including registration details, schedule and logistics, please contact:

UIW Fashion Management Department

Dr. Lalon Alexander
Department Chair, Fashion Management
210-805-1207

We look forward to welcoming your students to campus!