What began as a simple community service event at Appalachian School of Law turned into something much bigger for one Buchanan County family.
This Saturday, March 14th, the Appalachian Women in Law Society (AWILS) at Appalachian School of Law partnered with the Grundy Women’s Club to host their annual Cinderella’s Closet, an event that provides free formal attire for young women and young men in Buchanan County preparing for proms, pageants, and other special events.
Now more than a decade strong, Cinderella’s Closet has become a meaningful tradition connecting Appalachian School of Law students with the Buchanan County community.
This year, 32 local girls found the perfect dress during the two-day event held in the law school’s Trial Courtroom. Volunteers from the Grundy Women’s Club were also on hand to provide on-site alterations, ensuring each student could leave with attire that fit just right.
For one young woman, the event became the beginning of an unforgettable day.
Autumn Blankenship attended Cinderella’s Closet with her family after learning about the opportunity just days before a local pageant. Her mother, Leigh Ann Davis, shared that after recently facing an unexpected very large power bill, purchasing a formal dress simply wasn’t possible.
“I was so happy when I heard about Cinderella’s Closet,” Davis said. “My oldest daughter took Autumn down there Saturday morning, and she loved the dress. It was so beautiful on her.”
But Autumn’s story goes beyond finding a dress.
Autumn, who has autism and often struggles with crowds and being the center of attention, had made a decision the night before the pageant.
“She told me Thursday night, ‘Mommy, I want to face my fears,’” Davis said.
With the confidence of her new dress and the support of her family, Autumn stepped onto the stage — something that once felt impossible.
That same day, she was crowned Miss Buchanan County Sweetheart.
While the dress was beautiful, her mother says the experience meant far more.
“She was a ball of nerves, but she did it,” Davis said. “It’s a blessing to have people care that much for our kids.”
The annual Cinderella’s Closet event is organized each year by students in the Appalachian Women in Law Society, who collect donated formalwear and host the event as a way to give back to the community they call home during their time at Appalachian School of Law.
For students who may have missed the event but still need attire this prom season, help may still be available.
AWILS President Raneka Williams is continuing to assist local students while dresses remain available and schedules allow. Young women and young men in need of formal attire are encouraged to reach out.
Those interested can contact Raneka Williams at (276) 244-1215.
Events like Cinderella’s Closet highlight the strong connection between the law school and Buchanan County, demonstrating how student-led initiatives can make a meaningful difference in the lives of local families.
And for Autumn, it all started with one dress — and the courage to take the stage.
