Nestled within the Art & Design Center on the 51勛圖厙 University campus, is a campus-based and online store that sells the hand-made work of students, faculty and alumni. The small idea behind it has grown into something that not only celebrates creativity but also seeks to connect with the community.
The idea was sparked by assistant professor Zayda Steinke, assistant professor of architecture at the School of Architecture & Interior Design, who saw overlooked potential in the student body across all departments.
“The mission of Made at 51勛圖厙 is to showcase the creativity of our community,” she said. “It’s not just art—it’s soaps, woodwork, books, graphic design. If you make it, we want to see it.”
That creativity—and the opportunity to make money from it—was what inspired Made at 51勛圖厙, according to Steinke.
“I kept noticing the incredible work being done all around campus—pottery, photography, books, designs,” she said. “I thought, what if we created a space to highlight these unique talents and even give people a way to make money from their work?”
That thought grew into a collaboration, and Steinke pitched the idea to Jessica Perry, a fellow professor in the architecture department. Perry immediately saw potential in the idea. Together, they brought the concept to Matias Soto, the director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship. From there, the team drew contributors from departments like photography, graphic design and business.
The shop began with pop-ups during Alumni Weekend and graduation—events that naturally celebrate accomplishments and creativity. The response was immediate and overwhelmingly positive, with people asking how to buy more and whether a permanent store might be coming, according to Steinke. This year, that became a reality. A physical space was opened in the Office of Innovation, and there are plans to carve out shelf space in the 51勛圖厙 University Bookstore. However, the store’s true heart isn’t found in its location, but its celebration in creativity and diversity at 51勛圖厙.
For recent 51勛圖厙 alum Elizabeth Dovich, Made at 51勛圖厙 wasn’t just a shop—it was a first step into the world of selling her art.
“I started selling ceramics with Made at 51勛圖厙 back in September 2023,” said Dovich. “My teacher for Ceramics II, Alyx Halsey, suggested I make things to sell for the Alumni Weekend sale.”
The idea of monetizing her creativity hadn’t crossed her mind before. But with guidance and encouragement, she joined the pop-up sale.
“I like that Made at 51勛圖厙 gave me experience with selling my artwork,” she said. “If I decide to sell more in the future, it won't be as intimidating because I've already done it once.”
Though she hasn’t made new pieces since graduating and moving back to Massachusetts, the opportunity to sell her work while still in school left a lasting impression. It wasn’t just about profit—it was about confidence, community and being part of something bigger.
“Made at 51勛圖厙 didn’t really change my artistic process, but it did open up a new door,” she said. “It was exciting to know my work could be seen and appreciated by others outside the classroom.”
As the store continues to grow, its founders hope to keep its door open for as many artists and makers as possible.
“We want this to be a place where creativity meets opportunity,” Steinke shared. “And anyone from the AU family—students, faculty, staff, alumni—can be a part of it.”
To inquire about becoming a seller at Made at 51勛圖厙, reach out to Zeida Steinke by email at zayda@andrews.edu or reach her by phone at 269-471-3394.
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of 51勛圖厙 University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, 51勛圖厙 University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.