Stuart Weitzman on campus Nov. 12
Footprints of innovation: students invited to engage with acclaimed footwear designer
Event Information (passed)
The University of Cincinnati’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) will host renowned footwear designer Stuart Weitzman on Wednesday, Nov. 12.
Throughout the day, Weitzman will meet with UC students and faculty, participate in a public lecture and attend a luncheon, dinner and evening reception.
Through a mix of formal talks, personal interactions and social events, he will share insights into his career, creative philosophy and the business of design.
He will host a public lecture — “A Designer’s Entrepreneurial Journey on the Road Less Traveled” — from 4 to 5 p.m. in DAAP, Room 4400, with a reception to follow. The lecture is free and open to the public and will focus on entrepreneurship, design methodology and the intersection of art, function and industry.
Student dinner
UC students from all colleges are invited to apply for the opportunity to meet Weitzman in a small-group dinner setting, planned for 6 to 8 p.m. Students will have the chance to ask questions, view samples or prototypes and make personal connections with the designer and his staff.
About Stuart Weitzman
Stuart Weitzman/photo provided.
Stuart Weitzman’s passion for design has been a lifelong pursuit, leading to the internationally renowned company that bears his name. He has been honored extensively for his unique approach to entrepreneurship and for his uncompromising commitment to prioritizing function as an integral element of fashion.
His shoes have dominated red carpet events for many years and are worn by celebrities around the world. Beyoncé, Kate Middleton, Selena Gomez, Taylor Swift and Jennifer Lopez are just a few who are regularly seen in his designs, along with millions of other women in over 70 countries.
Weitzman approaches his extensive charitable endeavors with equal commitment. Among these are his ongoing support for a wide range of hospitals and medical research centers, youth and sports organizations and cultural institutions and museums.
He regularly mentors students on their entrepreneurial and design aspirations at several universities, including the University of Pennsylvania, Princeton, Yale, Caltech, Rice, Stanford, University of Chicago and the London Business School.
Weitzman is a graduate of The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, where the university has honored him by renaming their design and architecture school the Stuart Weitzman School of Design.
During his free time you may find him on the tennis court or at the ping-pong table. If you’ve got a racket, he’ll welcome the challenge.
Featured image at top of Weitzman with shoe display courtesy of the designer.
About DAAP
UC's College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP) immerses its students in classroom and studio learning as well as practice through experience-based learning in more than 20 undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs spanning a broad range of creative disciplines.
DAAP aspires to be one of the best art and design schools in the world. Students explore their passions and create art, environments and graphics that have global impact.
Degree programs are offered in communication, fashion and industrial design; architecture and interior design; fine arts, art history and art education and community planning and urban design. The college now offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in games and animation.
Related Stories
From research to resume: Grad Career Week prepares students for career paths
February 20, 2026
Graduate students at the University of Cincinnati will explore how their academic and creative work translates into professional success during Grad Career Week, March 2–6, a week-long series of workshops, networking opportunities, and skill-building sessions hosted by the Graduate College.
Discovery Amplified expands research, teaching support across A&S
February 19, 2026
The College of Arts & Sciences is investing in a bold new vision for research, teaching and creative activity through Discovery Amplified. This initiative was launched through the Dean’s Office in August 2024, and is expanding its role as a central hub for scholarly activity and research support within the Arts & Sciences (A&S) community. Designed to serve faculty, students, and staff, the initiative aims to strengthen research productivity, foster collaboration, and enhance teaching innovation. Discovery Amplified was created to help scholars define and pursue academic goals while increasing the reach and impact of A&S research and training programs locally and globally. The unit provides tailored guidance, connects collaborators, and supports strategic partnerships that promote innovation across disciplines.
Blood Cancer Healing Center realizes vision of comprehensive care
February 19, 2026
With the opening of research laboratories and the UC Osher Wellness Suite and Learning Kitchen, the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center’s Blood Cancer Healing Center has brought its full mission to life as a comprehensive blood cancer hub.