The University of Southern Mississippi’s Student Union recently hosted its annual Spring Makers Market. The market was held in the Union Lobby and Thad Cochran Atrium and showcased student talent, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
The 2025 event featured an array of community and student-run booths displaying handmade crafts, original artwork, baked goods, jewelry, and other locally made products. Open to artisans, creators, and entrepreneurs across campus, the market served as a platform for students to promote their small businesses and creative work.
ShedorArt, one of the featured vendors, drew attention with bold, colorful paintings that reflect themes of community and self-expression. The business is run by senior merchandising major Renika Hampton, who named her brand after a family legacy.
“The name of my business is ShedorArt, which is my middle name, Shedora, which is comprised of my grandparents Sherman and Dorothy,” Hampton said. “So family and community has heavily inspired my art. I want to create art that makes people feel good, makes people seen, and also lets them know that a community is out there, somewhere for you, whether that’s your own family or created family.”
Shedora said participating in the market gave her an opportunity not only to connect with customers, but also to move her work from private to public spaces.
“For the Makers Market, I wanted to get my paintings—one, out of my parents' house—but also to get my work out there, to show students like hey, the opportunities are there if you seek them, if you look for them,” she said.
According to Student Union organizers, around 70 percent of vendors in previous years have earned between $200 and $500 in sales during the event. Vendor tables are offered free of charge, providing a low-risk opportunity for students to test business ideas or expand their customer base.
“I think its important having a platform where students can just express their creativity and not be bogged down by academic goals,” said Intisar Waheed, a sophomore at USM.
The market attracted steady foot traffic throughout the day, with both students and faculty browsing for unique gifts and keepsakes. Some visitors were return customers, familiar with products from past markets, while others were discovering local talent for the first time.
Vendors were responsible for managing their displays, handling transactions and promoting their brands on-site.
For student artists like Renika, the Makers Market represents more than just a business opportunity. It’s a chance to share stories, connect with others and affirm that their work has value.
