A 1982 graduate of Kwantlen’s Fashion Technology program, as well as the co-founder of Sugoi Performance Apparel, Dr. Carol Prantner has been a long-time supporter of Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s Fashion Technology Program.

In addition to sponsoring an annual student award, as well as serving on the university’s fashion advisory committee, Dr. Prantner is actively involved in the department’s curriculum development and regularly mentors and hires Kwantlen graduates.

“It’s amazing to see the students' appreciation,” she said. “As a graduate from a few decades ago and co-founder of Sugoi, I have seen technical sportswear evolve in the most exciting and dynamic ways. My goal is to help inspire students to look outside the box for functional solutions in active sportswear design.”

Grateful for the opportunity to give back to the institution that kick-started her career, Dr. Prantner says Kwantlen gave her the confidence she needed to launch a business “that started in a basement and become a lifetime success.”

“Support from the community acts as a bonus for an outstanding effort, as well as an incentive for an exhilarating career,” she added. “Such awards create motivation to strive for better design and functionality.”