Shoes That Fit and Pensole Lewis College of Business & Design (PLC Detroit), Michigan’s only HBCU and the nation’s only design-focused HBCU, created a special custom footwear experience for 13-year-old Addisyn Lumpkin of Jonesboro, Arkansas, who stands 6 feet 5 inches tall and wears a men’s size 22 shoe. The event took place recently at PLC Detroit, where Addisyn collaborated with PLC President and renowned designer Dr. D’Wayne Edwards and the PLC staff.
PLC Detroit provides world-class education in design, offering a comprehensive curriculum, industry partnerships, and hands-on learning experiences. The institution equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the design industry while inspiring creativity, fostering innovation, and promoting diversity in design.
Dr. Edwards’ journey with Shoes That Fit began at a board retreat, where he expressed a desire to join the organization. He shared his inspiration: “I was impressed with their mission, values, and the impact they have on thousands of kids every year, and I knew I needed to help. When they told me about Addisyn, I immediately said, ‘Yes, I want to help her get shoes that fit!’”
A national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Claremont, CA, Shoes That Fit addresses one of the most visible signs of poverty in America by providing children in need with new athletic shoes. This initiative allows them to attend school with dignity and joy, prepared to learn, play, and thrive. Recognized as a California Nonprofit of the Year, the organization delivered new athletic shoes to over 218,000 children across 50 states last year alone.
Shoes That Fit CEO Amy Fass emphasized the serendipitous nature of this collaboration, stating, “Hearing Addisyn’s story while Dr. Edwards joined our Advisory Board was truly serendipitous. As a result of this extraordinary collaboration with our partners, we are honored to help facilitate, for the first time in our organization’s history, the creation of a custom pair of shoes for a child.”
Addisyn embodies resilience as one of approximately 50 individuals identified with Weaver-Smith Syndrome, a rare genetic condition causing rapid bone growth. Her mother explained, “Addisyn goes through four shoe sizes each year,” underscoring the urgent need for custom footwear tailored to her unique requirements.
Dr. Edwards used his patented technology, Sz, to create shoes specifically for Addisyn. ÜNOS By SZ, which stands for “U Need One Size,” offers an innovative footwear solution for individuals grappling with inconsistent shoe sizing. This sneaker line adapts as children’s feet grow, ensuring extended wear and comfort.
“I was excited to work with Addisyn on creating shoes that not only fit her physically but also celebrate who she is,” Dr. Edwards expressed. “It was an incredible opportunity for the PLC Detroit staff to use our design capabilities to make a meaningful impact in her life.”
He further emphasized, “At PLC Detroit, our commitment extends beyond design; it’s about making a real difference in people’s lives. Creating custom shoes for Addisyn is a testament to our belief that function with fashion can empower individuals, inspiring them to embrace their uniqueness.”
During her visit to Detroit, Addisyn collaborated with Dr. Edwards and the PLC Detroit staff to create multiple pairs of shoes reflecting her preferences in colors, logos, and other unique design elements.
This initiative is made possible through a partnership with the nonprofit organization Shoes That Fit, fueled by a generous donation from Jeannie Nordstrom. The organization also assisted with a portion of Addisyn and her family’s travel expenses.
“Shoes That Fit’s mission is to ensure that children have what they need to attend school with dignity and joy, starting with their feet!” said Fass. “We are so grateful to our funders who have made this unique experience possible. This partnership reflects our mission in action—giving a child what she needs—through the power of partnership.” Fass hopes that these custom shoes will enhance Addisyn’s comfort and mobility, enabling her to participate fully in school and in life.
The visit stands as a strong testament to PLC Detroit’s commitment to design with purpose, illustrating how creativity and innovation can foster positive change beyond the classroom.
Addisyn’s shoes will be ready in four weeks!
For more information on PLC Detroit, visit https://www.plcdetroit.com/
Photographer: JP Howard
