Daisha Bates: Alumni Spotlight

For Daisha Jabarri Bates ’17, (Magna Cum Laude, Fashion Buying, & Merchandising) the fashion hustle never ends.

Bates is a full-time personal stylist and shopper at Rue Gilt Groupe, a part-time personal stylist at SnapStyle, and a social and virtual stylist at Chico’s. Simultaneously she is continuing her education at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City.

After graduating from Herkimer College, Bates attended Buffalo State where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Fashion & Textile Technology with a concentration in Fashion Merchandising.

 “My time at Herkimer College inspired me to really pursue my dreams in the fashion industry and to go after what I really wanted. Amy Roepnack, my fashion professor during my time at Herkimer, was such an amazing, inspiring, creative industry professional that taught me so much,” Bates said.

Daisha explained that her classes, particularly the ones taught by Roepnack, helped foster and solidify her passion for fashion.  

“I believe there is a place for every emerging fashion professional that wants to make it in the industry if you have the determination and drive for it,” she said.

Bates expressed gratitude for Herkimer College as it motivated her to continue to learn and grow in all aspects of life, not just fashion. She dubs herself a ‘lifelong learner’ and believes fashion can change and shape the lives of others as it has shaped hers.