Senior Sloane’s Capstone project began as a study of fashion sustainability but evolved

into a deeper examination of consumer culture, overconsumption, and the personal and societal

forces that drive them. While she initially focused on the environmental impact of clothing

production, Sloane pivoted after she encountered reporting that reframed sustainability as a

behavioral issue rooted in consumerism. This shift led her to explore how shopping habits, identity,

and self-esteem intersect, and how these dynamics contribute to fashion waste.

Through extensive research, interviews, and experiential learning, Sloane examined

sustainability from multiple perspectives. She conducted in-depth interviews with fashion

sustainability scholar Dr. Sara Idacavage and other professionals working toward more ethical

fashion systems, gaining insight into how education, policy, and creativity can drive meaningful

change. These conversations helped demystify industry claims around “sustainable fashion” and

inspired Sloane to believe that individual choices can contribute to larger solutions.

A central component of the project was a ten-month personal commitment to abstain from

purchasing new clothing. This experience challenged Sloane to confront her own consumption

habits, rethink impulse buying, and develop more intentional approaches to shopping. Alongside

this commitment, she worked at a resale clothing store, where she observed consumer behavior

firsthand and learned how affordability, emotion, and body image influence purchasing decisions.

The job reinforced her understanding of resale as an accessible, impactful sustainability solution

while also building professional confidence and responsibility.

As a culminating contribution, Sloane organized two Community Closet events that invited

peers to donate and shop for secondhand clothing. The events successfully redistributed hundreds

of items, reduced waste, and sparked conversations about alternative consumption. More

importantly, the project fostered personal growth: Sloane developed confidence in public

speaking, professional communication, and leadership, discovering the power of initiative and

connection.

Ultimately, Sloane’s Capstone became both an academic study and a personal journey. By

examining sustainability through the lens of consumer behavior, she gained a clearer sense of her

values, her voice, and the kind of impact she hopes to make—demonstrating how student-driven

research can lead to meaningful change, both within a community and within oneself. “This project

is a study in sustainability,” she said, “but in turn, it forced a mirror on me to grapple with my

insecurities and grow in confidence.”

Athens Academy’s Capstone Project is an opportunity for Upper School students to explore

a passion via four criteria: research, mentorship, experiential learning, and an outward

contribution. Each student submits a research paper detailing an aspect of the project, and theydefend the project before a committee of faculty and administrators, similar to a Ph.D. oral

defense. Students whose projects are approved by the committee receive the Capstone

designation at commencement in May.

Athens Academy is an independent, co-educational school for students in K3 through 12th

grade, located on a beautiful 152-acre campus in Northeast Georgia. Now in its 59th year, Athens

Academy pursues its mission of “excellence with honor” through academics, athletics, fine arts,

and service and leadership. Ranked the #1 private school in Athens, #7 private school in the state

of Georgia (out of 400+ schools), and #1 private school in North Georgia (Niche.com).

For more information, please contact Kelley Cuneo, communications director, at

[email protected] or 706-433-2410