On Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in partnership with Harding’s Center for Professional Excellence, JCPenney will be closing their doors to the public and opening their doors to the Harding community for the evening.

From 6-9 p.m., Harding students, faculty and staff will be able to “Suit Up” at the local JCPenney location in Searcy with a 40 percent discount on professional clothing, accessories and shoes as well as products from the beauty salon and Sephora counter within the store. In addition, prizes will be awarded throughout the evening, Sephora will be providing mini makeovers, and the salon will offer free consultations and discount coupons for future visits.

Brian Harrington, director of the Center for Professional Excellence (CPE) located within the Paul R. Carter College of Business Administration (COBA), coordinated the event and is excited about the opportunity for students, especially in light of upcoming career fairs, on-campus interviews and networking opportunities as students prepare for a first job.

“For many students Harding is a long way from home, and they cannot run home to get a suit,” Harrington said. “First impressions are extremely important during the interview process, and we want students to be able to present themselves in the best possible way.”