Name: Beyond the Career Closet: Building equitable, scalable career readiness systems in Postsecondary CTE
Start: 2026-09-17T16:30:00-0400
End: 2026-09-17T17:15:00-0400

Beyond the Career Closet: Building equitable, scalable career readiness systems in Postsecondary CTE

Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT

Jefferson

Career readiness is shaped by far more than resumes and interview tips. For many students, hidden barriers such as access to professional attire, understanding workplace etiquette, confidence in self-presentation, and limited social capital can directly affect whether they pursue opportunities and how they are perceived when they do. This session will help postsecondary CTE leaders reframe the “career closet” as part of a broader student career development strategy rather than a standalone service.

Drawing on implementation lessons from Southern Methodist University, insights from other university pilots, and recent work on business etiquette and professional identity, presenters will share how institutions can design equitable, scalable systems that improve access, reduce stigma, strengthen employer alignment, and support student confidence. Attendees will examine how campus partnerships, alumni and employer support, data collection, and intentional student engagement can move a career readiness initiative from ad hoc to sustainable.

This session is designed for career center directors, deans, student success leaders, and postsecondary CTE administrators who want practical strategies they can adapt in their own settings. Audience participation will include peer discussion, reflection prompts, and a short planning exercise. Attendees will leave with a leadership framework, implementation checklist, and action steps for strengthening career readiness supports on their campuses.

Speakers

Evan Saperstein

Associate Director of Career Development, Southern Methodist University

Institution: Southern Methodist UniversityEmail: [email protected] title: Associate Director of Career Development
Academic credentials: Master of Education (M.Ed.), Arizona State UniversityBachelor's Degree, Florida State University Professional Roles:Associate Director of Career Development: Currently leads initiatives at the Hegi Family Career Development Center at SMU.Former Assistant Director... Read More →

Thursday September 17, 2026 4:30pm - 5:15pm EDT
Jefferson Hyatt Regency | 2799 Richmond Hwy, Arlington, VA

Concurrent Session

ACTE Postsecondary CTE Summit 2026

Evan Saperstein

Attendees (16)

Get help with the event

ACTE Postsecondary CTE Summit 2026

Evan Saperstein

Attendees (16)

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