The Alfiero School of Business celebrated the grand opening of the Wildcat Thrift Store on Thursday, February 20. 
Wildcat Thrifts, located in the business building B206, is managed by Carol Bartlo, Assistant Professor, Department Chair, MBA Director, and Accreditation Director; and department graduate assistant, Ally Deason. The store is also staffed by Dylan Dick and Hailie Staniszewski, business student interns who focus on operations and growth, and Arturo Bustamante, a business/sport management student who created a dedicated sports corner for his sports management practicum. Additional students also donate time, as needed.
“It’s exciting for me to see students using what they are learning in their business administration and accounting courses to navigate the complexities of running a business,” said Bartlo. “With Wildcat Thrifts, students are gaining experience in operations, marketing, staffing and management, and accounting and finance. I love the students’ enthusiasm, ingenuity, and creativity to expand and grow the store. I am proud that this initiative offers a venue for recycling donated goods and provides very low-cost goods in a convenient setting for the Daemen community.”
The store thrives on donations to keep its doors open. From housewares to apparel to seasonal items, giftware, and more, there’s something for everyone. To-date, the store has welcomed over 30 customers, including students, faculty, and staff.
The hands-on experience has been invaluable to students. “Through Wildcat Thrifts, I have had the opportunity to help students launch their own business ventures, build their resumes, and gain a wide variety of business experience in a professional setting,” said Deason. “I see that this experience allows students to build their professional skill sets and confidence. This community of students inspires me, and their passion is what has led to the success of Wildcat Thrifts thus far.”
The store is open to the public Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations are accepted during business hours and on Mondays between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. There is a bake sale every Thursday, featuring confections baked by Staniszewski.
The WildCat Thrift Store will host its second fashion show on February 28 at 5:30 p.m. in the Alumni Lounge where students will model clothing from the store.