Students from 18 High Schools Attend 2023 Primp for Prom Event in Woodward

April 26, 2023

Nearly 250 dresses were given away to students from 18 high schools in three states during the ninth annual Primp for Prom event recently held in the Woodward High School Practice Gym.

This year more than 400 dresses and nearly 100 pairs of shoes were donated to the Northwestern Oklahoma State University department of social work that co-sponsors the event with Woodward High School.

“Primp for Prom is an event that promotes human and community well-being and highlights the generous spirit of others,” Dr. Kylene Rehder, department of social work chair, said.

This event is something that Woodward High School looks forward to helping with each year.

“It’s always fun to see students have the prom dress shopping experience,” said Primp for Prom co-director Stefanie Alexander, Woodward High School employee. “My favorite part of the event will always be seeing the look on the girls' faces when they find the perfect dress.”

Chantal Rocha, a senior social work major from Woodward, had the opportunity to see what goes into setting up the event and the effort it takes to make it happen.

“It was amazing to see how many students came by to try on dresses and ended up with their perfect dress and a smile on their faces,” Rocha said. “It feels rewarding to see the students happy and that you have helped with something positive.”

This year nearly 250 dresses were given away during the annual Primp for Prom event co-sponsored by the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Department of Social Work and Woodward High School. Some volunteers include (front row, left to right) Amy Ireland, Camryn Howard, Dr. Kylene Rehder, Jonathan Wales, Chanel Meinders, (back row, left to right) Caton Elwood, Melanie Yager, Bailey Pelland, Tara Leonard, Maci Howell, Krystan Pierce and Codi Harding. 

Camyrn Howard, a senior social work major from Woodward, has loved her volunteer experiences with Primp for Prom throughout the years.

“Primp for Prom is an amazing opportunity for high school students in need of affordable prom attire,” Howard said. “The energy throughout the entire event is so empowering, and I feel as though everyone leaves with not only a beautiful dress but with a boost in confidence.”

Rehder expressed appreciation on behalf of the department of social work to those who helped with the event’s success including her co-director, Stefanie Alexander; Woodward High School administration, students and staff; Northwestern-Woodward campus dean Dr. Jonathan Thomason; Woodward Leadership Advisory Board members; Posh Bridal and Prom of Oklahoma City; Northwestern social work student volunteers; Social Work alumni and professional social workers; Celebrations of Woodward; Carlie Gallegos of Forgan, and all the generous dress and accessory donors from across northwest Oklahoma. She noted a special thanks to the administration of Woodward High School for playing host to the event.

“Please understand this event is about more than dresses,” Rehder said. “We see it as a means to embody our university and professional commitment to serve. This community event provides financial support to families, builds a sense of community, models service, and promotes positive self-images, confidence and empowerment to young people.”

For more information about this event or the department, please contact Rehder at kdrehder@nwosu.edu or (580) 327-8135. For additional information on Northwestern’s social work department, visit https://www.nwosu.edu/school-of-arts-and-sciences/social-work.

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