Marla Day, director of the KSU Historic Costume and Textile Museum, presented a captivating program on Kansas City's own, Nellie Don titled "Dress For Success."

Marla introduced the guild to Nellie through a biographical summary: 
*Nellie was one of the youngest of 13 children and the 5th daughter.
*As the constant recipient of hand-me-down clothing, she began restyling those garments at a young age.
*Nellie married Paul Donnelly when she was 18 as a means of being independent, using a truncated version of his name when she began her business.
*Nellie was an early advocate of women's rights and often hired women as she built her empire.
*Working out of home with her sisters, Nellie first approach local businessman George Peck to sell her Apron Frock. After reluctantly agreeing, Mr. Peck sold the initial order quickly and requested more, more, and more.
*Nellie was in business and needed more space, buying and refurbishing a Kansas City building to expand her work force and production. 
*Iconic Nellie Don creations include the original Apron Frock, the Handy Dandy Apron, Wash Dresses, Day Dresses, and original designs for working women.
*Ellen (Nell) Quinlan Donnelly became the largest dressmaker of the 20th C.