This Michigan Student Could Win $15K for a Duct Tape Tux

As incoming college students across the country prepare for campus life, one Michigan teen is already turning heads thanks to his unique outfit that could land him a college scholarship.

Calder Westerman, who is a soon-to-be freshman at Ferris State University, is one of 10 finalists in this year’s Duck Brand “Stuck at Prom” Scholarship Contest.

If you've never seen it, this is a quirky and creative competition that challenges high school students to design and wear prom attire made entirely from duct tape.

Calder went all-in, crafting a convertible tuxedo that’s as impressive as it is sticky. His creation, built entirely from colorful Duck Brand duct tape, earned him a spot in the national finals, and now he’s in the running for a $15,000 scholarship.

The winner will be decided by public vote, so yes, that means you can help send a Michigan kid to college just by clicking a button.

Every finalist in the contest shows off jaw-dropping levels of creativity, but Calder’s tux isn’t just a suit, it transforms from a tux into a racing suit. According to his submission, it’s based on Japanese racing legend Keiichi Tsuchiya. (Also known as the drift king)

He made a helmet, and even 3D printed a trophy boutonniere (how cool!)

If he wins this contest, the scholarship will help him kick off his journey at Ferris State this fall. And with that awesome Bulldog on his tux, he’s repping his future school pretty well.

NEXT: Can Michigan residents use University libraries? The answer is complicated ⬇️
Want to see Calder’s tux and cast your vote? Head to the Duck Brand website before the contest closes. Let’s help bring this scholarship home to Michigan.

Can Michigan Residents Access the State's Public Univesity Libraries? The Answer is Really Complicated

Public libraries are generally founded on the premise they are free and open to all. After all, it's in the Michigan Constitution that all state residents have access to a local library. But what about the state's public universities? Access to these institution by residents of Michigan varies greatly.

Here's a look at the borrowing policies of every public university library in Michigan.

Gallery Credit: Eric Meier

Now Open in 2025: West Michigan's Hottest New Restaurants

We can all get stuck in restaurant ruts. If you're looking for a new spot to grab a bite and a beverage, read on!

New West Michigan dining destinations include bakeries, authentic Mexican restaurants, Cajun eateries, new American cuisine, vegan joints, even a beloved Grand Rapids breakfast and lunch joint that's been resurrected. Check out the new bars and food trucks too!

As more restaurants open up, we'll continue to add to this list, so check back!

Gallery Credit: Janna