Jessica Anderson Garcia ’13, who earned a bachelor’s degree in strategic communication, was selling ads for CBS Media in Dallas when her sister-in-law came to her with an idea to create modern jewelry that shows school pride.

Together with another sister-in-law and friend, the women co-founded Kyle Cavan in 2018.

The TCU line of jewelry from Kyle Cavan can be purchased at the TCU Campus Store. Courtesy of Jessica Anderson Garcia

Their New York-based company offers sterling silver, 14-karat gold and gold-plated necklaces featuring a university seal or iconic campus structure. The line of jewelry, which also includes earrings, bracelets and more, can be customized with engraving, gemstones or charms.

In five years, Kyle Cavan has grown to 20 employees. The New York Times included the company’s necklaces on its 2023 list of best graduation gifts.

“The variety of different classes I took at TCU helped prepare and shape me into wearing many hats in the startup world,” said Garcia, who works as director of partnerships. “I do everything from graphic design, social media, copywriting, photography, sales.”

The team has established licensing agreements with 200 universities. Garcia believes the hefty catalog might entice a larger company to acquire Kyle Cavan someday.

The TCU collection is sold at the TCU Campus Store and online. Coming soon is a 3D rendering of Frog Fountain that will be used in cufflinks, lapel pins and necklaces.