Pensole Lewis College Collaborates with Shoes That Fit; Creates Custom Shoes for Teen with Rare Bone Growth Condition
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Posted By: P C on March 17, 2026 Recently, 13-year-old Addisyn Lumpkin of Jonesboro, Arkansas, got a footwear experience few could imagine. Standing 6 feet 5 inches tall and wearing a men’s size 22 shoe, Addisyn, one of roughly 50 people diagnosed with Weaver-Smith Syndrome, collaborated with Pensole Lewis College of Business & Design (PLC Detroit) and Shoes That Fit to design her very own custom shoes. The event at PLC Detroit, Michigan’s only HBCU and the nation’s only design-focused HBCU, allowed Addisyn to work hands-on with PLC President and renown footwear designer Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, selecting colors, logos, and unique design elements while Dr. Edwards used his patented ÜNOS By SZ (“U Need One Size”) technology to craft shoes that adapt as her feet grow. Dr. Edwards described the experience as an “incredible opportunity for the PLC Detroit staff to use their design capabilities to make a meaningful impact in her life." He added, “Working with Addisyn was inspiring. We weren’t just creating shoes—we were creating something that fits her physically and celebrates who she is.” Shoes That Fit, a nonprofit that provides brand-new athletic shoes to underserved children across the United States, partnered on the project with support from donor Jeannie Nordstrom. CEO Amy Fass called the collaboration “truly historic.” She explained, “This is the first time in our organization’s history that we’ve created a fully custom pair of shoes for a child. Addisyn’s story perfectly reflects our mission to help kids attend school with dignity and joy.” For Addisyn, who goes through roughly four shoe sizes each year, the custom footwear is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. Her mother said, “She literally grows out of shoes multiple times a year. These custom shoes will make a real difference in her daily life, allowing her to move comfortably and confidently.” The collaboration also highlighted PLC Detroit’s commitment to design with purpose. Dr. Edwards added, “At PLC Detroit, our work isn’t just about fashion or aesthetics; it’s about solving real problems. Seeing the joy and confidence these shoes brought to Addisyn made it all worthwhile.” In a few weeks, Addisyn will have multiple pairs of custom-designed shoes in hand, each reflecting her personal style and tailored to her unique needs. The experience was a reminder of how creativity and innovation at an HBCU can have a tangible impact on lives—one pair of shoes at a time. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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P C
Publicist, PCPR Communications Member Since May 2024 |
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