Dr. Yunru Shen, Ed.D., M.F.A.

January 2021 - Present
October 2014 - September 2020

• Spearhead the academic and operational activities of the Merchandising Textiles and Design program, including curriculum development, faculty leadership, and student recruitment.
• Lead the strategic planning process to enhance program accreditation, resulting in the successful preparation and submission for AAFCS accreditation.
• Direct the development and digitalization of the curriculum to align with industry standards, integrating advanced textile principles and fashion technology into the program.
• Foster collaborative relationships with national and international fashion businesses, art centers, and industries to provide students with unique learning opportunities.
• Co-lead the department in securing and managing research grants totaling over $200,000, enhancing the program's resources and expanding opportunities for students.
• Mentor and train faculty members and staff, ensuring the effective delivery of the program and supporting their professional growth.
• Integrate advanced technology, AI tools, and Blackboard Learning Management System to optimize student engagement, performance tracking, and personalized learning experiences.

Courses:
Basic Textiles Spring 2019, 2021- 2024
Advanced Textiles Spring 2019, 2021- 2024
Introduction to the Apparel Industry Fall 2018 - 2020
Textiles/ Apparel Selection/ Design Fall/Spring 2014–2021, 2023–2024
Principles/Apparel/Design Fall 2014 – 2024
Advanced Apparel Design Fall 2014 - 2024
Fashion Illustration Spring 2015 – 2024
Fashion Buying and Merchandising Procedures Spring 2015 – 2021
Merchandising, Textiles and Design Internship Spring 2023 – 2024

• Sourced fabrics and trims and assisted the technical designer and product manager in selecting fabrics and trims for prototypes.
• Drew sketches/flats and drafted pattern making for garments for a Spring 2014 runway show.
• Prepared presentation boards for a product development presentation to the creative director.

September 16, 2013 - November 21, 2013

• Taught students fashion and illustration drawing techniques to help them understand the construction of garments.
• Evaluated garments and art work.
• Mentored fashion and art students on career goals.
• Helped students develop their first art exhibitions or fashion runway shows.

Courses:
Menswear Construction Fall 2013
Menswear Patternmaking I Fall 2013

March 20, 2013 - November 21, 2013

• Helped set up directions and goals for fashion undergraduate students.
• Led students to succeed in their curriculum and enhance their fashion techniques in multiple fashion classes.
• Advised students on time management and organization.

Courses:
Introduction to Fashion Sketching Spring and Winter 2014
Advanced Fashion Sketching Spring and Winter 2014
Introduction to Fashion Design Fall 2013 and Spring 2014
The Design of Business Fall 2013
Fashion Technology Spring 2013
Computer-aided Fashion Design Spring 2013
Introduction to Textiles Spring 2013
Survey of Asian Art Spring 2013

• Partnered with the Creative Director on the design process and production of garments.
• Incorporated the latest trends into designs and created women’s designs using Japanese one-piece draping.
• Advanced patternmaking, adjusted measurements of patterns, conducted model fittings and decided the finishings/details of the garments for products.