2024 ANNUAL REPORT
Interacting with the leaders and professionals who inspired me to pursue this path reassures me that my passion, hard work, and patience will establish my path forward. My FSF journey is just the beginning, with new opportunities over the horizon.”
—JACK WINKLER
2023 and 2024 FSF Scholar, Savannah College of Art and Design
MISSION
The Fashion Scholarship Fund is the foremost fashion-oriented education and workforce development nonprofit in the U.S.
The FSF works directly with the country’s most talented young students and awards over $1.9 million each year in scholarships to help these students succeed in all sectors of the industry, including design and product development, merchandising, marketing, and business strategy.
In addition to financial support, FSF also provides our Scholars with internship and career opportunities, mentorship, networking, professional development, and unprecedented access to the industry’s most influential creative talents and business leaders.
For 88 years, FSF has been committed to cultivating the next generation of fashion leaders.
Impact 9 Strategic Plan 10 Scholarships 12 The Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund 14
Member Schools 18
Community Colleges 21 Gala 22 Partners and Supporters 25 Named Scholarships 28
Partners and friends:
In early 2024, the Fashion Scholarship Fund announced an ambitious three-year plan to increase our impact on the fashion industry and the lives and careers of each FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar, affirming our commitment to their professional success and solidifying our focus on breaking down barriers they might face in achieving that success.
Each FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar represents important values—such as sustainability, accessibility, and inclusion—that are meaningful not only to this generation of talent but also to the fashion industry.
Through our support of these young people—the country’s top fashion-minded talent, whether pursuing creative or business disciplines—we have made remarkable progress in our work as an organization. In a few short months, we doubled the size of the FSF staff, recruiting a team devoted to expanding and strengthening the FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund’s programs.
Our growing staff is broadening our mentorship programs and working more intensively with each of our Scholars, as well as our Alumni and industry partners, to develop internship placements, make employment connections, deepen the overall engagement of our industry partners with our Scholars and Alumni, and measure our impact.
Judge our success, if nothing else, by this: in 2024, we awarded more than $1.7 million in scholarship funding to 162 young adults, including 30 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars and 32 FSF Community College Scholars. Recipients represented 75+ colleges and universities across the U.S. We awarded more than $100,000 through our new FSF Bridge Fund grant program to help the Class of 2024 Scholars take advantage of career opportunities they could not otherwise afford.
And, in 2025, we will award more than $1.9 million to 192 Scholars, including 60 Vigil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars, thanks to our successful efforts in 2024 and the continued enthusiasm and support of each of our industry partners.
It was a remarkable year and we are grateful to you, our partners and supporters, for making it possible. Thank you.
—PETER ARNOLD Executive Director
Looking back at my time as FSF Board President, I am inspired by all that we achieved. I had the honor of leading the Fashion Scholarship Fund through a period of transformational change and increasing impact. While this time was exciting, it involved very hard work, challenging us to think deeply about who we are and what we do, and to collaborate in re-envisioning our organization’s future. I am grateful to everyone—Board members, staff, Scholar and Alumni representatives, educators, friends, industry leaders, and thought partners—who gave their time and wisdom to a very rigorous strategic-planning process.
I am proud that we achieved consensus and made important commitments together. We secured the FSF’s role as a steward of Virgil Abloh’s vision and as the fashion industry’s foremost partner in ensuring a strong and inclusive talent pipeline. Thanks are due to our friend and partner Shannon Abloh, Board member Howard Feller, and LVMH. The Virgil Abloh™ “PostModern” Scholarship Fund is an initiative that will impact countless future generations.
Finally, I am grateful to Peter Arnold and his very hardworking staff. Quite simply, in every way, they made possible all that we achieved, and all that we will go on to achieve.
Thank you for your support of our shared vision.
—JOHN TIGHE Board President
As I reflect on my college journey and the challenges I’ve faced as a first-generation student from a lower-income family, I can’t help but feel grateful for the support I’ve received from FSF along the way. I now feel like I can defy the odds and expectations stacked against me.”
Since 2004, FSF has awarded $20+ million in scholarships to 3,000+ undergraduates
1,200+ APPLICANTS from 75 FSF member schools participated in the Annual FSF Scholarship Competition
$1,700,000+ in scholarship funds were awarded
162 STUDENTS received scholarships ranging from $5,000–$25,000
30 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars were named through this legacy scholarship program and a total of 100 scholarships have been awarded since inception
100+ Additional Named and Special Scholarships created by FSF partners and supporters
600+ INDUSTRY LEADERS served as mentors and judges
185+ COMPANIES partnered with FSF to develop career opportunities for Scholars FSF’s Alumni community comprised 3,000+ FORMER SCHOLARS
Thanks to a collaborative and accelerated undertaking, in December of 2023, the FSF Board of Governors ratified a new, fully developed, threeyear strategic plan to map a path forward for both FSF and the “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund. This plan is designed to achieve an even more significant and demonstrable impact on the lives of an expanded number of young adults and, in turn, the fashion industry.
On the night of the 2024 FSF LIVE Gala, and in The New York Times that same day, FSF announced this strategic plan to the broader community.
Of the 15 ambitious goals that the FSF Strategic Plan outlines, all were completed during 2024 or are well underway, including:
FSF Bridge Fund: In 2024, FSF established a Bridge Fund to remove financial barriers that would otherwise prevent Scholars from taking full advantage of important career opportunities, such as fashion-industry summer internships or capstone/senior projects. This is a completely new grant-making program for Scholars—starting with the Class of 2024. The grant size typically ranges between $500 and $5,000 and, through this program, over $100,000 was awarded to 20+ Scholars in 2024.
VAPM Expansion: From 20 students in the first cohort of Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars, the number has grown each year: to 23, then 27, then 30. In 2025, this number will increase by 100% for a Class of 2025 cohort of 60 new “Post-Modern” Scholars.
CRM Implementation: In 2024, FSF migrated all data to a new Client Relationship Management (CRM) platform to better resource the FSF’s monitoring and evaluation capacity and more effectively track, understand, and tell the story of the FSF’s impact.
Infrastructure Growth: In order to position the FSF for sustained excellence and service delivery at an increasing scale, building internal organizational capacity was prioritized in 2024 and the number of FSF team members was doubled.
Case Study Refinements: To expand its reach through the existing Case Study application pathway, FSF reformatted the 2024 Case Study prompt to make the document visually appealing and accessible to future Scholar applicants.
Reinvigorated Mentorship: The FSF refined the mentoring offering in order to support Scholars’ needs and appetites, including longer-term mentor-mentee relationships, increased training for FSF mentors/mentees, and improved availability of mentors.
Winning the FSF Scholarship Competition is a blessing I could not have predicted and it has changed my life! I’m excited for what’s to come.”
—SHAYLA PEARSON
2024 FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar, Clark Atlanta University
For most students, the first step to joining the FSF Community is to compete in the annual FSF Case Study Competition. This Competition is divided into four main disciplines—business strategy, design and product development, marketing, and merchandising. In 2024, it challenged students to solve real-life ESG problems facing the fashion industry. Depending on their chosen discipline, our 2024 Case Study Scholarship Competition asked students for the following:
• Business Strategy: Develop an ESG initiative for a brand of your choosing.
• Design and Product Development: Design a collection that evolves the sustainable practices of a fashion brand with an environmental and social focus.
• Marketing: Create an authentic campaign t o circulate information about new or existing environmental actions, goals, and/or strategies.
• Merchandising: Develop an environmentally sustainable merchandising strategy focused on fashion, core, or a mixed assortment.
Over 1,200 qualified applicants from our 75 member schools competed for the 2024 scholarship. Our reviewing body of 500 judges (including FSF mentors, Alumni, and industry partners) selected 130 students to receive awards based on their Case Study scores, including 30 students to be awarded a scholarship from the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund. In total, 130 Scholars were awarded at least $7,500, 82 of whom received a Named Scholarship of $10,000 or more. Four topscoring FSF finalists were awarded scholarships of $15,000. One of the four finalists received the largest award of $25,000.
Of our 2024 FSF Scholars:
62% were Black, Indigenous, and People of Color
31% were Federal Pell Grant-eligible
15% were first-generation in their families to attend college
Of the 130 FSF Scholars, the four recipients with the highest scores presented their Case Studies virtually to a panel of fashionindustry leaders. The judges selected one winner for the $25,000 FSF Chairman’s Award Scholarship. The 2024 judges were:
Shannon Abloh, CEO and Managing Director of VIRGIL ABLOH SECURITIES and the President of THE VIRGIL ABLOH FOUNDATION
Sarah Benady, President, CELINE NORTH AMERICA
Tracee Ellis Ross, award-winning actress, CEO and Founder of PATTERN BEAUTY
Linda Fargo, SVP Fashion Office and Store Presentation, BERGDORF GOODMAN
Olivia Kim, Senior Vice President of Creative Merchandising, NORDSTROM
On April 8th, more than 750 members of the Fashion Scholarship Fund Community gathered, including Scholars, Alumni, industry executives, designers, and press. The event, held at NYC’s Glasshouse, celebrated the FSF Class of 2024, honored three industry luminaries, and provided live storytelling moments from each of the four FSF finalists competing for the $25,000 Chairman’s Award—FSF’s highest honor of the year.
$15,000 FINALISTS
Benjamin Callaghan
Senior at Savannah College of Art and Design who submitted a Design and Product Development Case Study on a sustainable and multidisciplinary product line focused on providing physical and emotional durability, in partnership with STONE ISLAND.
Chigozirim Nwogu
Senior at New York University who submitted a Marketing Case Study utilizing experiential learning, a second-hand marketplace, and digital workshops to create a community dedicated to sustainability, in partnership with Y/PROJECT
Joshua Tunac
Senior at Arizona State University who submitted a Business Strategy Case Study on Loewe, utilizing a proposal for sustainability transparency through standardized and openly authenticated supplychain traceability.
$25,000 CHAIRMAN’S AWARD RECIPIENT
Olivia Meyer
Senior at Kent State University who submitted a Merchandising Case Study on Sheertex and the concept of singleleg tights to combat unnecessary waste and overconsumption.
Now in its fourth year, the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund continues to uphold the vision of the late Virgil Abloh by advancing impact in the fashion industry. The fund provides scholarships and career opportunities to students who identify as Black or African American, ensuring that emerging talent receives the resources and mentorship needed to excel in the industry.
It was Virgil’s dream to identify and support the 17-year-old version of himself. He was committed to providing the “way in” to every young fashion student who was in search of it. Virgil named the fund “Post-Modern” to signify that recipients will not only receive funds, but also ongoing career-support services and mentoring through the Fashion Scholarship Fund. “Post-Modern” Scholars have been matched to internships and employment opportunities at many of the industry’s top companies, many of which are FSF partners.
The FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund were honored to continue Virgil Abloh’s legacy by welcoming 30 new VAPM Scholars into the Class of 2024. Over the past year, these Scholars have had the opportunity to engage in an array of professional-development programs, including industry discussions, networking events, and hands-on internships and experiences.
The “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund, created by designer Virgil Abloh in partnership with the FSF in July 2020, serves as a cornerstone of Virgil’s legacy and is a force for transformation in both young students’ lives and the industry. Since its inception, FSF has awarded 100 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarships in all.
As a young Black designer, watching someone who looks like me become a pillar within the luxury streetwear industry makes me feel like there are no bounds. The opportunity to work for Off-White in Milan and be a part of what Virgil Abloh built only reinforced the value of working hard, thinking big, and being your authentic self.”
Class of 2024 FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar, University of Georgia
MALLORY BUTTS
Spelman College ’25
FRANCIS
Savannah College of Art and Design, Atlanta Campus ’25
NIKA LICKERT University of Cincinnati ’26
CHIGOZIRIM NWOGU New York University ’24
SATCHEL SMITH
Thomas Jefferson University ’24
CIERRA CALMEISE University of Cincinnati ’25
FATMATA CAMARA LIM College ’25
LAURYN GIDDINGS Virginia Commonwealth University ’26 D a NAE HARRISON Spelman College ’25
M c ALLISTER University of Georgia ’24
MADDY OSBORNE
Savannah College of Art and Design, Atlanta Campus ’26
ALAHNA WHARTON
Savannah College of Art and Design, Atlanta Campus ’24
KEVIN ADDISON Indiana University ’24
GERA BAANO-STEWART II Morehouse College ’24
ZACHARY CRAWFORD Pensole Lewis College ’25
MARLEY JACOBS
BRYANNAH MINOR Columbia College Chicago ’25
SHAYLA PEARSON
Clark Atlanta University ’24
TANIAH DAUGHTREY The University of North Carolina, Greensboro ’25
AMAYA EVANS Syracuse University ’26
Savannah College of Art and Design, Atlanta Campus ’24 AMARI JONES Indiana University ’24
ASIA REDHEAD
Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah Campus ’24
JAKARIE WHITAKER
Clark Atlanta University ’25
ASHLEY REDWAY Marist College ’24
VIRGIL ABLOH™ “POST-MODERN” TALK SERIES IN 2024:
Fireside chats with leading industry figures such as Kianga “Kiki” Milele, Founder and Owner of K. MILELE, and creative architect behind celebrity fashion brands including Justin Timberlake, Jay Z, Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Tommy Hilfiger, and Rihanna.
Executive roundtable discussions with VAPM Advisory Committee and FSF Board members Howard Feller, Nata Dvir, and Mecca Mitchell
Special conversations with NBA star Russell Westbrook and legendary designer Don C, a longtime business partner of Virgil Abloh.
INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIPS AND HANDS-ON LEARNING:
Two VAPM Scholars, Bryce Raymond-McAllister and Jazminé Morrow, interned at OFF-WHITE in Milan, gaining hands-on experience in design, trend research, fabric sourcing, and backstage fashion-show operations.
Two VAPM Scholars, Alahna Wharton and Shayla Pearson, interned at LOEWE in Paris, where one explored the business side of luxury fashion—including social content, marketing, and daily operations—and the other men’s design.
These experiences, among many others, have been transformative, providing unparalleled exposure and growth opportunities for our Scholars.
INDUSTRY RECOGNITION AND SPECIAL PROJECTS:
Two VAPN Scholars were featured in Teen Vogue for their collaboration with nonprofit organization TAKE ME FISHING and sustainable fashion brand, RENTRAYAGE . This project focused on creating upcycled clothing and accessories for female anglers, reinforcing the importance of sustainability and collaboration in fashion.
EXCLUSIVE INDUSTRY EVENTS:
Three VAPM Scholars, Jakarie Whitaker, Bryce Raymond-McAllister, and Tiffany Barney, attended the Black Carpet Awards in Milan during Fashion Week, an event organized by The Afro Fashion Association and celebrating excellence across various creative industries.
Several VAPM Scholars were invited to the CFDA Awards in New York City as guests of designer LaQuan Smith and received an exclusive tour of his design studio, plus a conversation about career development.
Peter Arnold , FSF Executive Director, and Farai Simoyi, Head of the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund and Equity, participated in a year-end discussion with Jennifer Vecchio, Chief Merchandising Officer at Burlington Stores and FSF Board member, moderated by Mecca Mitchell, SVP, BURLINGTON STORES , and FSF Board members. The discussion highlighted mentorship, personal branding, and career development.
VIRGIL ABLOH™ "POST-MODERN" ADVISORY COMMITTEE:
Under the leadership of Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Advisory Committee Chair and FSF Board member, Howard Feller, the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Advisory Committee works to identify and initiate programs aimed at fostering support and long-term opportunities for Black students in the fashion industry.
I am blessed to have had the opportunity to attend the 2024 Fashion Scholarship Fund Gala as a two-time VAPM Scholar. I have the deepest gratitude for the entire FSF team and Board. Your continued support is invaluable, and I know the community we’ve built will blossom for the rest of my career.”
—FATMATA CAMARA 2023, 2024, and 2025 FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar, LIM College
Of the 75 FSF member schools, 14 are Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and six are Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs), identified in bold on the next page.
Through partnerships with our 75 FSF member schools across the country, the FSF has cultivated meaningful relationships with faculty members who help identify the most promising undergraduates pursuing careers in fashion design and product development, merchandising, marketing, and business strategy.
To allow greater access to the FSF Scholarship Competition, students from schools that are not in the FSF network, but who otherwise meet the FSF Scholarship eligibility requirements, may apply. The FSF team works closely with these applicants to provide them with resources similar to what they would have had access to from a FSF Educator partner.
The Fashion Scholarship Fund offers students unparalleled access to the fashion industry through a diverse range of programs and events. Opportunities for networking, interaction with industry leaders, and exposure to critical voices significantly contribute to the preparation of the next generation of professionals.”
ACADEMY OF ART UNIVERSITY | ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY | AUBURN UNIVERSITY
BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY | BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY | BROWN UNIVERSITY | BUFFALO STATE-SUNY
CALIFORNIA STATE POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY, POMONA | CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY | COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO | COLUMBUS COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN
CORNELL UNIVERSITY | DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY | DREXEL UNIVERSITY
FASHION INSTITUTE OF DESIGN AND MERCHANDISING | FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY | FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY | FORDHAM UNIVERSITY | GEORGE BROWN COLLEGE
HAMPTON UNIVERSITY | HARVARD UNIVERSITY | HOWARD UNIVERSITY | INDIANA UNIVERSITY
IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY | KENT STATE UNIVERSITY | LEHIGH UNIVERSITY | LIM COLLEGE | MARIST COLLEGE
MOREHOUSE COLLEGE | MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY | NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY | NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY | OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY | OTIS COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN
PARSONS SCHOOL OF DESIGN | PENSOLE LEWIS COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND DESIGN | PRATT INSTITUTE
PURDUE UNIVERSITY | RHODE ISLAND SCHOOL OF DESIGN | SANTA CLARA UNIVERSITY
SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN | SPELMAN COLLEGE | STEPHENS COLLEGE
SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY | TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY | THE OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA GREENSBORO | THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN | THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY | UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, LOS ANGELES
UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI | UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO, BOULDER | UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE
UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA | UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA | UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE
UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA | UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI | UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS
UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND | UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON | VIRGINIA COMMONWEALTH UNIVERSITY
WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY IN ST. LOUIS | WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
XAVIER UNIVERSITY IN LOUISIANA | YESHIVA UNIVERSITY
Bolded names signify a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) or a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI)
Hearing advice from professionals working in the fashion industry was such an impactful part of the FSF Community College Scholarship program. It gave me confidence in my path and my abilities, and it reminded me to stay true to myself.”
In 2024 and thanks to continued support from The VF Foundation, the PVH Foundation, and True Religion—FSF expanded a pilot program launched in 2021 to explore new strategies and create a stronger, more accessible talent pipeline.
The FSF Community Colleges Initiative provided the opportunity for 32 Scholars from seven two-year colleges to participate in a custom-designed career awareness experience, including assignment to 1:1 mentors and an allexpense-paid three-day job shadow experience in July. In New York, Scholars attended meetings at KITH , LEVI STRAUSS & CO. , MACY’S, INC. , PVH , and TIMBERLAND. Later that month on the West Coast, Scholars attended meetings at CITIZENS OF HUMANITY and BODY GLOVE in Los Angeles, followed by meetings at LEVI STRAUSS & CO. and KENDO in San Francisco. Community College Scholars also had access to the FSF’s educational programming, and more.
The FSF Community Colleges Initiative third-year cohort was comprised of Scholars from: El Camino College and Saddleback College (CA), Hocking College (OH), North Shore Community College (MA), Hostos Community College and Bronx Community College (NY), and Tarrant Community College (TX).
My favorite takeaway from the Community College Scholar immersive experience was learning from the panelists that there is no one clear path to success in the fashion industry. This insight has made everything feel more attainable to me.”
—DAISY GALVAN FSF 2024 Community College Scholar, Saddleback College
On April 8, 2024, the Fashion Scholarship Fund gathered more than 750 Scholars, Alumni, industry leaders, designers, and press at NYC’s Glasshouse to toast the FSF Class of 2024, honor three industry luminaries, and experience live storytelling from the four FSF finalists competing for the $25,000 Chairman’s Award—FSF’s highest honor of the year—which was awarded to FSF Scholar, Olivia Meyer from Kent State University Supermodel Paloma Elsesser hosted the evening. FSF honored Michael Burke, Chairman and CEO of LVMH FASHION GROUP; Tracee Ellis Ross, award-winning actress, CEO and Founder of PATTERN BEAUTY; and Pete Nordstrom, President and Chief Brand Officer of NORDSTROM, INC.
FSF partners played a major role in creating an important career-exploration experience for the 130 Class of 2024 FSF Scholars during the Scholars’ three-day trip to NYC in early April for the 2024 FSF LIVE Gala:
The morning of the FSF LIVE Gala, WWD hosted the 130 Class of 2024 FSF Scholars at their NYC headquarters in Manhattan for a panel with Amanda Smith, President of FAIRCHILD MEDIA GROUP; designers including Reed Krakoff, Bach Mai, and Christian Juul-Nielson of AKNVAS; and a panel of WWD directors and editors—including James Fallon, Chief Content Officer; Emily Mercer, Fashion Market Editor; and Thomas Waller, Senior Fashion Market Editor, Accessories.
That afternoon, NORDSTROM invited FSF Scholars to the Nordstrom NYC flagship store for lunch and a panel on careers in fashion and retail, featuring Jian DeLeon, Nordstrom Men’s Fashion Director; Christian Richardson, Multicultural Marketplace Leader; and Linda Cui Zhang , Associate Fashion Director.
That same afternoon, LVMH hosted the 2024 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars at Louis Vuitton’s New York showroom with a panel discussion and lunch with Michael Burke, Chairman and CEO of LVMH FASHION GROUP; Shannon Abloh, Chief Executive of VIRGIL ABLOH SECURITIES; Sharri McIntyre, VP of DEI at LOUIS VUITTON; and Mecca Mitchell, FSF Board member and SVP, Leadership and Organizational Development, DEI, and Community Impact, at BURLINGTON STORES, INC. , among others.
The morning after the FSF LIVE Gala, Scholars attended professional-development events at partner companies and Named Scholarship supporters, including ERIC EMANUEL , FASHIONPHILE , KOHLS , MACY’S, INC. , NORDSTROM , and PVH , among others. We thank our partners who helped create these memorable “behind-the-scenes” learning opportunities.
On April 8th, I was awarded the 2024 Chairman’s Award at the FSF LIVE Gala in NYC and I haven’t stopped smiling since. It was an honor to be surrounded by fellow Scholars and change-makers in the industry, and I am inspired by every member of the FSF Community.”
In January, thanks to the investment of a record number of corporate partners, FSF announced that it would award $1.7+ million in scholarship funding to the 130 members of its Class of 2024 Scholars, as well as its 32 Community College Scholars. FSF’s partners not only provided scholarship funding; they enriched the experiences of all our Scholars by providing mentorship, creating special educational and social events, offering job shadowing opportunities, and providing connections to internships and employment.
We are pleased to share some partnership highlights below and others incorporated throughout this report. We are grateful to all FSF supporters for their meaningful impact on our Scholars’ lives.
In February, NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP announced their second cohort of 10 Neiman Marcus Group x FSF Scholars, awarding $10,000 each to Cierra Calmeise of University of Cincinnati; DaNae Harrison of Spelman College; Fatmata Camara of LIM College; Lauryn Giddings of Virginia Commonwealth University; Mallory Butts of Spelman College; Amaryllis Dunklee of The University of Texas at Austin; Andrea Hernandez of Savannah College of Art and Design; Megan Lenzi of Iowa State University; Olivia Porter of Clemson University; and Tammy Wang of The University of North Carolina. These 10 Scholars demonstrated talent in and commitment to advancing sustainable and ethical fashion through their Case Studies and were each paired with a mentor from the NMG team. These Scholars were dressed by Neiman Marcus Group for the 2024 FSF LIVE Gala in order to look and feel their best for the celebratory event. The third cohort of Neiman Marcus Group x FSF Scholars was announced in January 2025. The scholarships support NMG efforts to advance sustainable products and services as part of their 2025 ESG strategy.
In April and in celebration of Earth Day, the FSF partnered with CITIZENS OF HUMANITY to launch a tote bag designed by Class of 2022 FSF Scholar, Giulia Palermo. Citizens of Humanity donated 100% of the retail price of every tote sold to the FSF.
To kick off the summer, MARQUEE BRANDS helped jumpstart our summer programming by hosting the 2024 FSF Summer Kickoff for FSF Scholars, Alumni, Board members, and friends at their NYC headquarters.
In June, we announced the KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS x FSF SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM , which will support two Scholars from the Class of 2025. The program is funded by the NBA star in order to advance the fashion business or design careers of underrepresented students. Additionally, we announced the new TJX x FSF SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM , created with a generous grant from THE TJX FOUNDATION , which will award scholarships to five students from the Class of 2025 who demonstrate excellence in merchandising through their Case Study submissions.
Also in June, FSF and MACY’S, INC. announced the winners of the Macy’s, Inc. Men’s Design and Marketing Challenge: 2024 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar and Nordstrom x FSF Scholar Shayla Pearson, who graduated from Clark Atlanta University; and 2023 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar Angel Stewart , who received her degree from Iowa State University. Shayla, who interned in men’s design at LOEWE during Summer 2024, will have one of her Macy’s, Inc. designs developed and produced. Angel, who interned at TODD SNYDER in Summer 2023, presented her marketing strategy to the Macy’s, Inc. marketing team.
In July, NORDSTROM hosted their 2024 NORDSTROM x FSF SCHOLARS Saba Farajollahi of Savannah College of Art and Design, Atlanta; Marley Jacobs of Savannah College of Art and Design, Atlanta; Latifah Hirchi-Vogl of Colorado State University; Kay Kuhon of Ohio State University; Shayla Pearson of Clark Atlanta University; and Jakarie Whitaker of Clark Atlanta University—for a three-day trip to Seattle in order to visit the Nordstrom headquarters and meet with team members. The Nordstrom x FSF Scholarships are awarded to six undergraduates who demonstrate an interest in sustainability and who represent Nordstrom’s commitment to inclusion and diverse representation in the fashion industry.
Also in July, SKIMS and the FSF created a robust career-awareness partnership program. The six 2024 SKIMS x FSF Scholars—Alyssa Albano of Lehigh University; Eunice Chong of University of Pennsylvania; Samantha Fay of University of Southern California; Erika Gesell of Virginia Commonwealth University; Elena Roesler of Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising; and Alaina Wodarek of West Virginia University—completed an eight-week virtual SKIMS internship and were hosted by the company for a week at the SKIMS Los Angeles headquarters, where they shadowed department heads, attended meetings, and learned about the SKIMS design process. The SKIMS x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS are awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate talent and commitment to innovative solutions around thematic areas of interest for SKIMS, such as advancing ethical and sustainable fashion, adaptive clothing, textile innovation, and size inclusivity. SKIMS renewed the SKIMS x FSF Scholarship program in 2025.
The FSF Community Colleges Initiative, in its third year, brought 32 students pursuing associate degrees to NYC and Los Angeles/San Francisco in July for four-day in-person immersive experiences. The FSF Community Colleges Initiative is made possible by THE VF FOUNDATION , PVH FOUNDATION , and TRUE RELIGION , each of which supported Named Scholarships for the Initiative.
The West Coast Community College Industry Immersive Program included time in greater Los Angeles—touring and hearing from professionals at BODY GLOVE and CITIZENS OF HUMANITY—and in San Francisco, where Scholars toured and visited with employees at LEVI’S and KENDO BRANDS.
The NYC Community College Industry Immersive Program included tours and informational sessions at the NYC headquarters of FSF partners KITH , LEVI’S , MACY’S, INC. , and PVH , and at the TIMBERLAND NYC flagship store. Additionally, PVH arranged for their 10 PVH x FSF Community College Scholars to be matched with PVH corporate and brand employees as 1:1 mentors.
To kick off the fall season, PVH hosted FSF Scholars and Alumni for a panel conversation with CALVIN KLEIN leaders, including: Jess Lomax , Chief Design Officer and FSF Board member; Amanda Molinaro, Vice President of Women’s Merchandising; Marcus LeBlanc , Vice President of Global Menswear Design; and Katie Underhill, Vice President of Global Integrated Marketing. Attendees were taken on a walkthrough of CK’s Summer 2025 Showroom, where they engaged with the designers and merchants who create the iconic CK products.
In October, Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars were invited to the CFDA Awards in New York City as guests of designer LaQuan Smith. They then received an exclusive tour of his design studio, followed by a conversation on professional development and industry insights.
Also in October, FAIRCHILD MEDIA President and FSF Board member Amanda Smith and WWD hosted several FSF Scholars and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars at the WWD
in NYC.
In November, the FSF Community gathered at the LINGUA FRANCA TOWNHOUSE atop the brand’s West Village boutique for an inspiring evening of connection, conversation, and celebration. The event was hosted by Rachelle MacPherson, Lingua Franca founder; Amanda Smith, FSF Board member and Fairchild Media Group CEO; and Peter Arnold , FSF Executive Director, and welcomed industry leaders, FSF Alumni, and friends to toast the future of fashion. Attendees heard from past Chairman’s Award recipients—2024 winner Olivia Meyer and 2023 winner Clay Lute.
In December, HEARST MAGAZINES once again made FSF the beneficiary of their “A Season without Swag” campaign, redirecting participating companies’ client holiday-gift spending to a non-profit of their choice.
We thank our 2024 partners for their important investments in and commitment to our Scholars. For information about creating a custom partnership initiative with FSF, contact DEVELOPMENT@FASHIONSCHOLARSHIPFUND.ORG
The Named Scholarships for 2024 made a difference in the lives of our talented young visionaries while contributing to the vitality of fashion and related industries. Many of these contributions provided meaningful mentoring and internship or entry-level job opportunities, directly impacting students’ success and nurturing the future leaders of our industry.
VIRGIL ABLOH™ “POST-MODERN” SCHOLARSHIPS
Kev Addison, Gera Baano-Stewart II, Tiffany Barney, Mallory Butts, Cierra Calmeise, Fatmata Camara , Zach Crawford , Taniah Daughtrey, Amaya Evans, Shanese Francis, Lauryn Giddings, DaNae Harrison, Marley Jacobs, Amari Jones, Amanda Kerr, Nika Lickert , Bryce McAllister, Bryannah Minor, Gabrielle Moore, Jazmine Morrow, Naventi Muhammad , Chigozirim Nwogu , Maddy Osborne, Shayla Pearson, Asia Redhead , Ashley Redway, Elleanor Ross, Satchel Smith, Alahna Wharton, and Jakarie Whitaker
The Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund is administered by the FSF. As conceived by Virgil Abloh in 2020, its mission is to expand opportunities in the fashion industry by providing scholarships to students who identify as Black or African American.
AAFA EDUCATION FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP
Mahsa Firoozkouhi
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded annually to an undergraduate at an AAFA-affiliated college/university pursuing a business-related discipline or course of study.
ALVANON x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Julian Tong
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded annually to an undergraduate from a top engineering school who has an interest in size inclusivity and/or 3D garment product-development.
AMERICAN APPAREL & FOOTWEAR ASSOCIATION (AAFA) GLOBAL PUBLIC POLICY SCHOLARSHIP
Elena Harris
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded annually to an undergraduate interested in the development of, and advocacy for, public policy related to the apparel, footwear, and accessories industries.
BURLINGTON STORES x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Tiffany Barney
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates an interest in buying, marketing, merchandising, and/or supply chain, and who is a rising senior and would consider a summer internship at the Burlington Stores corporate office in Burlington, New Jersey, or Los Angeles, California.
DELTA GALIL x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Anoushka Ambavanekar
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a major in retailing.
DICK’S SPORTING GOODS x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Jack Winkler
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates an interest in sports and/or is a former athlete.
ERIC EMANUEL x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Kev Addison, Alyssa Cozzoni, Amaya Evans, LeeAnn Huang, and Parth Suri
Five scholarships of $10,000 each (with additional grant and apprenticeship opportunities), awarded annually to undergraduates with entrepreneurial ambitions and their finger on the pulse of pop culture and digital/social trends. Created by Eric Emanuel in 2022.
FASHIONPHILE x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Annika Geissberger
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded annually to an undergraduate who successfully competes in the FSF Scholarship Competition.
FASHION SCHOLARSHIP FUND CHAIRMAN’S AWARD
Olivia Meyer
One scholarship of $25,000, awarded to the overall FSF Scholarship Competition winner each year and funded by the members of the FSF Board of Governors.
FSF FINALIST AWARDS
Ben Callaghan, Chigozirim Nwogu, and Josh Tunac
The 2024 FSF Finalist Awards (three scholarships of $15,000) are made possible by LVMH, Nordstrom, and WWD and are awarded to three of the top four finalists in the FSF Scholarship Competition with the highest-scoring Case Studies.
GLORIA VANDERBILT SCHOLARSHIP—BY ONE JEANSWEAR GROUP
Eesha Patel
One scholarship of $12,500, awarded annually to an undergraduate who is an emerging leader, demonstrates exceptional vision and entrepreneurship, and expresses an interest in denim through their Case Study project.
KENNETH COLE x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Annabella Thornton
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who successfully competes in the FSF Scholarship Competition.
KOHL’S x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Gretchen Fehn, Finley Peterson, and Ian Vailliencourt
Three scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates in their junior or senior year who submit excellent Case Studies in either design and product development or merchandising.
LICENSING INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Remy LeMaire
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded annually to an undergraduate who successfully competes in the FSF Scholarship Competition.
LEVI STRAUSS & CO. SCHOLARSHIP
Bailey Musnicki
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates interest in a discipline or course of study relevant to Levi Strauss & Co. The Scholar may be given special access to internship opportunities and corporate employee mentors.
MACY’S, INC. JEFF GENNETTE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Olivia Aker, Geo Arevalo, Olivia Byam, Zach Crawford, Bryce McAllister, Lily Noble, Mayesha Nujhat , Plern Rattanaprakarn, and Makayla Trapp
Nine scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded annually to undergraduates who successfully compete in the FSF Scholarship Competition. Selected in collaboration with representatives from Macy’s, Inc., as part of Macy’s, Inc. commitment to its Mission Every One to create a more equitable future for all.
MARTY’S LIGHT: THE MARTY STAFF SCHOLARSHIP
David Vega
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded annually to an undergraduate with an interest in menswear or another fashion-industry sector influenced by Marty Staff, and who embodies Marty’s legacy and demonstrates fearlessness, inspiration, innovation, joy, and energy.
NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Mallory Butts, Cierra Calmeise, Fatmata Camara , Amaryllis Dunklee, Lauryn Giddings, DaNae Harrison, Andrea Hernandez, Megan Lenzi, Olivia Porter, and Tammy Wang
Ten scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates demonstrating talent and commitment to advancing ethical and sustainable fashion.
NORDSTROM x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Saba Farah, Latifah Hirchi-Vogl, Marley Jacobs, Kay Kuhon, Shayla Pearson, and Jakarie Whitaker
Six scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate an interest in sustainability and who represent Nordstrom’s commitment to inclusion and diverse representation in the fashion industry.
PEERLESS CLOTHING x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Ellie DiPaolo
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who successfully competes in the FSF Scholarship Competition.
PVH FORWARD FASHION x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Madison Chan, Lauren Garcia , Bryannah Minor, Gabrielle Moore, Jazmine Morrow, Emily Nguyen, Cheyenne Otero, and Asia Redhead
Eight scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or People of Color) representation with a keen interest in the fashion industry and who represent PVH’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, and creating greater pathways to opportunity in the industry.
RALPH LAUREN CORPORATION x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Naventi Muhammad
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who successfully competes in the FSF Scholarship Competition.
ROSS STORES, INC. SCHOLARSHIPS
Megan Alleborn, Julianna Busa , Emily DeNero, Alahna Wharton, and Sharon Wu
Five scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded annually to undergraduates who demonstrate excellence in retail leadership, present a Merchandising Case Study, and are preferably based in the Northeastern U.S.
RUNWAY OF DREAMS™ x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Mitch Perez
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded annually to an undergraduate whose submitted Case Study has a direct application to furthering the future of adaptive fashion design for people with disabilities.
DAVID E. & JACQUELINE S. SIMON CHARITABLE FOUNDATION x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Katherine Haidvogel
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who successfully competes in the FSF Scholarship Competition.
SAP x FSF INNOVATION SCHOLARSHIP
Javi Benson
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to a student who demonstrates innovation and interest in a discipline or course of study relevant to SAP.
SKIMS x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Alyssa Albano, Eunice Chong, Samantha Fay, Erika Gesell, Elena Roesler, and Alaina Wodarek
Six scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate talent and commitment to innovative solutions around thematic areas of interest for SKIMS, such as advancing ethical and sustainable fashion, adaptive clothing, textile innovation, and size inclusivity.
TIGHE FAMILY x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Elleanor Ross
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who is Federal Pell Grant-eligible and first-generation to attend college.
TOMMY BAHAMA x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Vanessa Gissel
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded annually to an undergraduate who successfully competes in the FSF Scholarship Competition.
VERA WANG x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Heather Morey
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who successfully competes in the FSF Scholarship Competition and who demonstrates an interest in bridal through their Case Study project.
WEISSMAN x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Amari Jones, Erica Lubomirsky, Maddy Osborne, and Emily Tran
Four scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded annually to undergraduates who demonstrate an interest in dance and who submit excellent Case Studies in the following disciplines: design and product development, merchandising, and marketing analytics.
WHP GLOBAL x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Ashley Redway and Jennifer DeBellis
Two scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded annually to undergraduates who successfully compete in the FSF Scholarship Competition.
WYNN RESORTS x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
Benjamin Coryell
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who successfully competes in the FSF Scholarship Competition.
ALLAN J. ZWERNER SCHOLARSHIP
Sofia Enriquez
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate from the University of Florida or any other FSF member school in Florida.
Thirty-two scholarships of $5,000 each, awarded to students enrolled in community college in pursuit of an associate degree. Scholars are paired with FSF Alumni as mentors and undertake an intensive career-awareness and skills-building program, including an all-expense-paid, in-person industry immersion experience in New York City or San Francisco.
THE VF FOUNDATION X FSF COMMUNITY COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
Diego Aparicio Pacheco, Jadyn Babb, Dalena Campbell, Allyssa Comagon, Jae’oni Davis, Fatoumata Diaby, Jennifer Duong, Daisy Galvan, Julianna Houston, Joan Kigotho, Derek Oblinger, Stephanie Oliveira de Araujo, Ellyot Perkins, Ray Rodriguez, Yalexa Rodriguez, Gabrielle Schaub, Mayrin Vazquez, Monique Vasquez, Ansley Wexler, and Eduard Yakubyk
Made possible by a grant from The VF Foundation, 20 scholarships of $5,000 each, awarded to students enrolled in community colleges in pursuit of an associate degree.
PVH x FSF COMMUNITY COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
Arrianna Aldridge, Daviana Chacon Dugarte, Sabrina Conti, Kristina Gonzalez , Diana Hernandez, Olivia MacCrae, Mellissa Miller, Stephan Reavish, Trinity Rodriguez, and Simon Yuan
Ten scholarships of $5,000 each, awarded to students enrolled in community colleges. Students participate in professionaleducation programming during their scholarship year, including an all-expense-paid fashion industry immersion experience made possible by PVH.
TRUE RELIGION x FSF COMMUNITY COLLEGE BRIDGE SCHOLARSHIPS
Awutiu Akol and Isabella Halqvist
Two scholarships of $5,000 each, awarded to students from the greater Los Angeles area who are enrolled in community college and with aspirations to transfer to a four-year degree program and pursue a career in fashion (scholarship is renewable with continued eligibility). Scholars are paired with mentors and participate in an intensive career-awareness and skillsbuilding program, including the summer industry immersion experience.
In February and again in September of 2024, the FSF hosted virtual Talent Acquisition Events. More than 750 Scholars and Scholar applicants were connected with over 100 recruitment representatives from 70+ leading fashion companies for fulltime job opportunities and summer internships in the fashion industry.
To learn how your company can participate in the next FSF Talent Acquisition Event, please contact INFO@FASHIONSCHOLARSHIPFUND.ORG
I had a wonderful experience interning for the womenswear team of Off-White in Milan, Italy. Being a Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar has given me so much, but I never imagined that I would be afforded this kind of opportunity. My passion is streetwear and to say that I worked for one of the biggest luxury streetwear brands gives me the inspiration I need.”
In 2024, FSF hosted several Virtual Campus Visits. With 400+ registrants for each session, these virtual events welcomed prospective 2025 FSF Scholarship Competition applicants from our 75+ member and non-member schools across the country. During these virtual presentations, Scholar panelists and members of the FSF team shared information on the benefits of competing in the FSF and VAPM Scholarship Competition and the application process. The recorded versions of the presentations were also made available on the FSF site as a helpful resource for 2025 FSF Case Study applicants.
FSF also deepened its commitment to expanding opportunities in the fashion-talent pipeline by forging stronger relationships with top-performing HBCUs and HSIs. One of the Virtual Campus Visits was held to engage potential applicants attending one of the HBCUs included in the Atlanta University Center Consortium: Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College.
To prepare the Class of 2025 Scholar applicants to succeed in the 2025 Case Study Competition, the FSF hosted multiple virtual “Case Study Q&A” sessions. During these sessions, applicants were given the opportunity to connect directly with FSF Alumni and glean insights on how they had succeeded in winning their FSF Scholarships.
Over 100 members of the Alumni community volunteered as Case Study mentors and helped applicants with the rigorous submission process. Applicants shared positive feedback on the opportunity and received valuable support with developing and finalizing their Case Studies.
In 2025, FSF will launch FSF University, an exciting new initiative to support students from groups that are underrepresented in the fashion industry. Insights from these conversations will inform FSF University’s role in providing additional programming for students at colleges and universities with limited fashion-education resources.
• Research shows that college students are most likely to drop out during their freshman and sophomore years.
• VFF provides multi-year scholarships from sophomore to senior year, ensuring financial stability and academic continuity.
• In addition to funding, Scholars will receive mentorship, professional exposure, and career-development support in order to improve retention rates and post-graduation success.
The FSF is committed to fostering the next generation of fashion talent through its signature Mentoring Program. Of the 130 Class of 2024 Scholars, over 125 were matched 1:1 with an industry mentor according to discipline, job function, geographic location, company, and alma mater. The benefits of the mentoring pairings were invaluable for both Scholars and mentors.
In 2024, FSF partnered with the 100K Mentor Challenge, an innovative platform that is used to administer the Mentoring Program. Among many support features, the platform provides a “mentoring preparation guide” to inspire meaningful mentoring conversations. It also helps mentors establish specific goals early in their mentoring sessions that can be measurably attained during their experience.
The FSF mentoring community is a diverse group of creative and business professionals and includes mid-level to C-suite executives from companies within the FSF network of partners and supporters.
One-third of FSF mentors are also FSF Alumni—previous FSF Scholarship recipients. FSF Alumni find the opportunity to give back to Scholars both rewarding and as a leadership-development opportunity. Near-peer mentorship by a mentor who enjoys a common background or experience with their mentee, such as race/ethnicity or first-generation to college status, is of particular importance.
If you’re interested in mentoring the next generation of fashion, email INFO@FASHIONSCHOLARSHIPFUND.ORG
Success is fueled when hard work meets meaningful connections—and the FSF is the perfect platform to do just that. Being an FSF mentor has been so rewarding. It’s allowed me to provide mentees with the advice I wish I had sooner in my career. The FSF is a fantastic reminder that there is room for everyone to succeed in the fashion industry.”
FSF Mentor, Louis Vuitton America
Having
personal conviction and surrounding yourself with people who believe in you is really important. If you love this industry, then just keep going. I think having been told ‘no’ so many times is what created the big ‘yes’ for me.”
The FSF Summer Scholar Series consisted of 10 weeks of robust virtual programming, training, and events. This programming provided weekly professional-development sessions consisting of both Workforce Preparedness Courses and Master Classes.
FSF’s Workforce Preparedness Courses focused on specific topics and skills that Scholars might not be learning in school, in order to better prepare them for a career in fashion. Certain sessions also provided potential applicants with the opportunity to learn more about the 2025 FSF Case Study Competition, which focused on technology, as well as the four Case Study prompts.
In addition, FSF offered Master Classes. These informative sessions allowed Scholars, Scholar applicants, and Alumni to hear firsthand from industry experts about their professional journeys and the challenges they’ve faced.
The Fashion Scholarship Fund offered a Certificate of Completion to those who attended 4+ Workforce Preparedness Courses and 3+ Master Classes over the course of the Summer Scholar Series. Over 100 attendees were awarded a Certificate of Completion.
To kick off the 2024 FSF Summer Scholar Series, members of the FSF Community came together to connect, network, and toast the season. This highly anticipated cocktail event was held on MARQUEE BRANDS’ beautiful terrace overlooking downtown Manhattan.
The first session in the 2024 series was a Workforce Preparedness Course exploring the “Integration of Technology into Fashion.” Hosted by SAP, this virtual one-hour panel discussion featured industry executives from some of FSF’s partner companies and delved into the symbiotic relationship between fashion and technology, unveiling how technological innovations are revolutionizing the way consumers engage with fashion.
From augmented-reality fitting rooms to AI-driven personalization, the discussion illuminated the transformative impact of technology on shopping trends, supply chains, and consumer behavior. Insightful conversations and realworld examples provided by senior executives gave attendees valuable insights into how to leverage the tech/fashion convergence in order to drive innovation and stay ahead in the retail-fashion ecosystem. This event also helped prepare Scholar applicants competing in the 2025 Case Study Competition.
Next in the summer lineup was a Master Class with author and WWD Archives Editor Tonya Blazio-Licorish in conversation with industry-icon and trailblazer Bethann Hardison , President/Creative Director at Bethann Management Co. Inc. Audience members tuned in for a sneak peek of “Black in Fashion: 100 Years of Style, Influence & Culture.” The new book, co-written by Tonya, celebrates the indelible impact of Black voices in fashion, as captured by Women’s Wear Daily contributors and photographers since the publication’s inception in 1910. Scholars and Alumni also heard from former model, entrepreneur, and the “Godmother of Fashion,” Bethann Hardison, who shared profound moments in fashion over the decades.
The following day, Thomas Waller, Senior Fashion Market Editor, Accessories at WWD, hosted a special FSF SUMMER SCHOLAR SERIES conversation with New York designer Daniella Kallmeyer. The designer reflected on building her namesake label, KALLMEYER , and the 2012 launch of her collection.
In early July, FSF hosted a Master Class session with celebrated New York designer, Maria Cornejo. The designer shared her journey as the founder of the beloved fashion-conscious label ZERO + MARIA CORNEJO with FSF Scholars and Alumni.
Next up, celebrity stylist and Creative Director Jason Bolden hosted a Master Class in conversation with WWD’S Style Director, Alex Badia . Jason shared his journey in fashion, from his illustrious styling career to co-founding JSN Studio and his role on the Netflix series “Styling Hollywood.” Scholars and Alumni heard invaluable advice from both Jason and Alex on how to break into and stand out in the fashion industry.
Later in the month, American fashion designer Christopher John Rogers joined VOGUE RUNWAY Fashion News Writer and FSF Alumnus, José Criales-Unzueta . During this Master Class, Christopher shared his vision behind his New York City-based designs and how his brand creates emotional clothing with a focus on effortless dressing. Christopher and José reflected on their fashion-industry journeys, from Christopher launching his namesake label through his senior thesis at Savannah College of Art and Design in 2016, to the lessons they’ve both learned on their paths to success.
Another Summer Scholar Series highlight included an exclusive tour of the CAROLINA HERRERA ATELIER in New York City—a fashion house recognized for beautifully crafted collections synonymous with fearless, elegant style. Scholars and Alumni enjoyed a light breakfast and tour, followed by a Q&A session with Emilie Rubinfeld , President of CAROLINA HERRERA, LTD. and FSF Board member.
Later in the summer, FSF hosted a conversation with the designer, founder, and creative force behind KIDSUPER , Colm Dillane . Scholars and Alumni joined FSF for an insightful conversation about Colm’s artful approach to fashion that has earned him recognition as Louis Vuitton’s first-ever guest menswear designer in 2023.
Over the course of the summer, FSF hosted a four-part Workforce Preparedness Course series to help prepare Scholar applicants competing in the 2025 Case Study Competition. Each of these four virtual events honed in on one of the FSF’s Case Study prompts: business strategy, design and product development, marketing, and merchandising. The events gave Scholars and Scholar applicants an overview of the 2025 Case Study theme—“The Integration of Technology into Fashion”—and provided insight on how technology is reshaping the fashion industry.
The first event in the series provided an overview of merchandising, followed by an in-depth look at the related 2025 Case Study prompt. Attendees heard advice from industry experts Rachel Fusco , VP Merchandising and Wholesale, FENDI; and Kristen Apicella , SVP/GMM at ROSS STORES; as well as Olivia Meyer, 2024 FSF Chairman’s Award recipient from Kent State University; and Danielle Testa , 2025 Case Study prompt author, 2008 FSF Scholar, and Assistant Professor at Arizona State University.
The second installment of the four-part series was “Tech in Fashion: A Deep Dive into the Design and Product Development,” which gave an overview of the field, followed by an in-depth look at the 2025 Design and Product Development Case Study prompt. FSF Scholars, Scholar applicants, and Alumni heard from industry experts Lisa Cirelli , Director of Product, Recommendations and Personalization at NEIMAN MARCUS GROUP; and Bradley O’Brien , EVP of Product Design and Development at TOMMY BAHAMA; as well as Ben Callaghan , 2024 FSF finalist from Savannah College of Art and Design; and Danielle Testa , 2025 Case Study prompt author, 2008 FSF Scholar, and Assistant Professor at Arizona State University.
During the next session, “Tech in Fashion: A Deep Dive into the Marketing Discipline,” viewers heard from Monisha Agrawal , VP of Global Marketing, TIFFANY & CO.; and Jameel Spencer, Chief Marketing Officer in Residency, WHP GLOBAL; as well as Chigozirim Nwogu , 2024 FSF finalist from New York University; Jane Terrell , 2018 FSF Scholar and 2020 FSF finalist from Virginia Commonwealth University; and Danielle Testa , 2025 Case Study prompt author, 2008 FSF Scholar, and Assistant Professor at Arizona State University.
The four-part Workforce Preparedness Course series concluded with a discussion on “Tech in Fashion: A Deep Dive into the Business Strategy Discipline.” Advice was given from industry experts Nishma Chhabra , Head of Strategic Initiatives, Lifestyle Division at RALPH LAUREN; and Rachel Treanor, Senior Director of Business Insights and Strategy at LOUIS VUITTON; as well as Josh Tunac , 2024 FSF finalist from Arizona State University; Mia DeMeola , 2023 FSF Scholar from Fordham University; and Danielle Testa , 2025 Case Study prompt author, 2008 FSF Scholar, and Assistant Professor at Arizona State University.
To wrap it all up, FSF Alumni toasted the end of the FSF Summer Scholar Series season by joining fellow members of the FSF Community at The Met, where they enjoyed a self-guided tour of the museum and “Sleeping Beauties” exhibit, plus refreshments.
VIEW THE RECORDINGS OF THE 2024 SUMMER SCHOLAR SERIES EVENTS >
I’ve found job connections, advice, and friends through the FSF and I’m excited to see where these opportunities take me. I am so thankful I got involved with the FSF during school. I truly don’t know where I would be without the FSF Community!”
—JANE TERRELL 2018, 2019, and 2020 FSF Scholar, Virginia Commonwealth University
The mission of the Alumni Association is to continue the relationships formed through the FSF Scholarship program, to advance FSF Alumni in their career pursuits, and to create a dynamic Alumni program that builds loyalty to the Fashion Scholarship Fund.
The FSF Alumni Association is comprised of over 3,000 previous FSF Scholarship recipients and led by a dedicated group: Dave Canfield , 2014 FSF Scholar from Lehigh University and Head of Strategy at Zelig Technology; Lindsay Choi , 2013 FSF Scholar from Oklahoma State University and Menswear Designer for DKNY at OVED GROUP and Co-Founder of EPILOGUE STUDIO; Melissa Feeney, 2016 FSF Scholar from Lehigh University and Director of Data Science at ROLLER RABBIT; Brittany Katz , 2011 FSF Scholar from Washington University in St. Louis and Director, Demand Planning—Americas at CHRISTIAN DIOR COUTURE; Sam Son , 2020 FSF Scholar from Virginia Commonwealth University and Merchandising Lead, Collaborations and Partnerships at LEVI STRAUSS & CO. ; and Marrisa Wilson , 2013 FSF Scholar from Marist College and Founder and Creative Director of MARRISA WILSON NY. The group works closely with the Alumni Committee Chair, Celeste Gudas , Chairwoman and Founder of 24 SEVEN, INC. and FSF Board member.
In January, Alumni joined a virtual session on “The State of Fashion,” presented by THE BUSINESS OF FASHION . They gleaned insights as industry experts Robin Mellery-Pratt , Head of Content Strategy at BoF; and Alice Gividen , Associate Director of Content Strategy at BoF, discussed themes that will shape the global fashion industry in the years ahead.
The following month, FSF Alumni came together for an evening of community-building at MOLESKINE’S NYC flagship store at Moynihan Station—a special retail boutique that also serves as a supportive space for artists and creatives. Attendees enjoyed refreshments and music while a sketch artist brought their ideas to life on a purchased Moleskine notebook of their choosing. A percentage of all sales proceeds at the Moleskine flagship on the date of the event benefited FSF.
After the FSF LIVE Gala on April 8, Alumni were invited to catch up with fellow members of the FSF Alumni community during a casual event.
Alumni and the FSF Community toasted the end of the FSF Summer Scholar Series season at The Met in August. Guests enjoyed a self-guided tour of the “Sleeping Beauties” exhibit and then met at the museum’s Petrie Court Café for refreshments.
To close out the year, the FSF Board of Governors, Scholars, and Alumni met in November for an evening of community-building at FASHIONPHILE’S flagship store in Chelsea. FASHIONPHILE has been a long-time partner and important beneficiary to the FSF, and the event gave the FSF Community the opportunity to reconnect while enjoying refreshments and music.
In January 2025, WWD provided two pages in WWD Digital Daily announcing the Class of 2025 FSF Scholarship recipients and thanking FSF’s generous supporters. The ad was linked to a FSF microsite introducing our newest class of Scholars to the industry and featuring each scholarship recipient’s Case Study, CV, and profile.
VIEW THE CLASS OF 2025 FSF SCHOLARS, INCLUDING THE FIFTH COHORT OF “POST-MODERN” SCHOLARS >
The 160 members of the Class of 2025 represent a wide range of creative and business disciplines and attend 100+ colleges and universities across the U.S. 66% of our new Scholars are BIPOC, 14% are first-generation to college, and 36% demonstrate a financial need. The Class of 2025 includes 60 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars, bringing the total number of scholarships awarded through this legacy program—founded by Virgil Abloh at the FSF in 2020—to 160.
The FSF Board of Governors is a network of influential fashion-industry leaders representing a broad range of expertise in retail, wholesale, e-commerce, ESG, HR, and other sectors. Members of the Board of Governors are deeply engaged with the FSF’s mentorship, internship, and professional-development programs. Board members also provide invaluable career advice, guidance, and hands-on professional development experience for Scholars.
VIRGIL ABLOH+ Off-White Founder and Chief Creative Director
MIKE ALIC Management One President
MICHAEL ALLISON+ Burlington Stores EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer
SAM ARCHIBALD* Fanatics Commerce, Inc. Chief Merchandising Officer
PETER ARNOLD* Fashion Scholarship Fund Executive Director FSF Board Chairman
CAROLYN D’ANGELO* Gordon Brothers Senior Managing Director, Head of Brand Operations
NATA DVIR* Macy’s, Inc. Chief Merchandising Officer
HOWARD FELLER* H Feller Enterprises Founder
MIKE FRALIX [TC]2 President and CEO
KIERA GANANN* Delta Galil SVP and Global GM; Ralph Lauren Intimates and Sleepwear
HEATH GOLDEN* Marquee Brands Chief Executive Officer
ALEX GRINBERG Movado Senior Vice President; Customer and Consumer Programs
CELESTE GUDAS* 24 Seven Chairwoman and Founder
STACIE HENDERSON* TOD’S Group Chief Marketing Officer, Americas
DAVID KATZ*
Randa Apparel & Accessories EVP and Chief Marketing Officer
MATT LAUKAITIS Alpha Insight Partners Founding Principal
JESSICA LOMAX Calvin Klein Chief Design Officer
MARC MASTRONARDI* Equinox President FSF Board Chairman
MECCA MITCHELL
Burlington Stores, Inc. SVP; Leadership and Organizational Development, DEI, and Community Impact
KENNETH NOLAN
The Kasper Group Vice President of Design
DAN ORWIG* Peerless Clothing President
KRISTIN REHBERG Kohl’s VP of Design
PAUL ROSENGARD* WHP Global Senior Advisor
HEATHER ROUSSEL
Levi Strauss & Co. Vice President, Merchandising; Global Women’s, Accessories and Collaborations
EMILIE RUBINFELD
Carolina Herrera Ltd. President
MICHAEL SETOLA* Tharanco Lifestyles CEO and President
The Chairman’s Circle was established in 2023 as a non-governing body of prominent individuals who bring knowledge, support, and ambassadorship to the Fashion Scholarship Fund on an “as needed” basis. They include selected emeritus members of the FSF Board of Governors who serve as powerful allies in advancing FSF’s mission, impact, and sustainability.
FSF Chairman’s Circle members represent a wide variety of industries, sectors, and areas of professional expertise related to FSF’s mission. They are influential individuals who lend prestige and credibility to the Fashion Scholarship Fund through their professional achievements and/or field leadership and they are key to advancing the FSF’s work.
KEITH BAPTISTA PRODJECT Managing Partner
KAREN MURRAY Fivestory Owner
GLEN ELLEN BROWN Ember Advisory Co-Founder and Managing Partner
PETER SACHSE Tailored Brands Chief Executive Officer
JUNE DEFABIO Abercrombie & Fitch EVP; Global Strategy and Business Development
WILLIAM SUSMAN Cascadia Capital LLC Managing Director
ABBEY DONEGER DONEGER | TOBE President and CEO
KENNETH WYSE Wyse Consulting, LLC President
YEHUDA SHMIDMAN*
WHP Global Founder, Chairman, and CEO FSF Board Vice President and Treasurer
STANLEY SILVERSTEIN
WHP Global Chief Commercial Officer
AMANDA SMITH* Fairchild Media Chief Executive Officer
GENA SMITH LVMH, Inc., North America Chief Human Resources Officer
MAUREEN STORCH
American Apparel & Footwear Association Senior Vice President, Membership
CHIP THOMPSON*
Ralph Lauren President and Head of Womenswear, Men’s and Women’s Footwear, Accessories; North American Wholesale
JOHN TIGHE* Tailored Brands President FSF Board President
LANA TODOROVICH* Industry Consultant
JENNIFER VECCHIO* Burlington Stores Group President, Chief Merchandising Officer
MEGHAN WILLIS Under Armour VP of Product Development, Apparel and Accessories
MICHELLE WLAZLO JCPenney Brand CEO
Board and Chairman’s Circle lists as of March 1, 2025 +In Memory *Executive Committee member
The Fashion Scholarship Fund shares my commitment to inspiring and empowering the next generation of leaders. It’s crucial to provide mentorship and networking opportunities to elevate these talented creators, and the future of fashion.”
—NATA DVIR Chief Merchandising Officer, Macy’s Inc. Board Member, Fashion Scholarship Fund
GEORGE GREVILLE Director and Creative Consultant
ELECTA VARNISH Industry Consultant
DEBRA MALBIN
Debra Malbin Associates Founder
Fiscal Year 2024 (ending July 31, 2024)
*These are pre-audited numbers
Peter Arnold Executive Director
Marie Colletta Head of Education Programs
Carly-Ann Fergus
Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund and Equity Initiatives Manager
Janaé Helaire Events and Communications Assistant
Anya Kaplan Director of Partnerships and Marketing
Ashley Kemp Internship and Mentoring Programs Manager
Lindsay Quackenbush Partnerships and Marketing Assistant
Katherine Simone Education Programs Manager
Farai Simoyi Head of Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund and Equity
Alyssa Zinola Director of Events and Special Projects
224 West 35th Street Suite 500
New York, NY 10001
212.278.0008
info@fashionscholarshipfund.org
Instagram: @fashionscholarshipfund www.fashionscholarshipfund.org
Annual Report design by ajackdesign.com
2024 ANNUAL REPORT