“There is nothing more powerful than standing in rooms with the people who once inspired you. Through the FSF Scholarscommunity, are met with opportunity.”
—ALANIS CASTRO-PACHECO, Class of 2025 FSF and “Post-Modern” Scholar, Susquehanna University
The Fashion Scholarship Fund (FSF) is the foremost fashion-oriented education and workforce-preparedness 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 business strategy, design and product development, marketing, and merchandising.
In addition to financial support, FSF 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 89 years, FSF has been committed to cultivating the next generation of fashion leaders.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
FSF’s Mission
Introduction 2
2025 at a Glance 9
Scholar Support Scholarships 10
The Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund 14 Named Scholarships 16
FSF Community College Program 20
Bridge Fund Grant Program 22
Future Forward Program 23
FSF Programming
Mentoring Program 24
Talent Advancement Initiatives 25
FSF University 26
Summer Scholar Series 27
FSF Alumni 30
Events and Community
FSF LIVE Gala 32
Fall Awareness Event 35
Partners and Supporters 36
Looking Forward 39
Governance and Financials
Board of Governors 42
Financial Overview 44
FSF Team 45
To our FSF partners and friends:
It’s hard to believe that two years have passed since the April 2024 announcement of our ambitious strategic plan from the stage at FSF LIVE and in the pages of The New York Times and WWD. This past year has witnessed dramatic growth. We have grown our staff from five to 12 employees, including a team devoted to the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund and equity programs. We’ve strengthened all our programs and supports and we’ve piloted new ones.
We doubled the number of Virgil Abloh™ “PostModern” (VAPM) Scholars from 30 to 60 and awarded $1.9+ million to 192 deserving young adults, including 32 Community College Scholars. We launched FSF University, a comprehensive online course designed to level the playing field for the FSF Competition and maximize its learning opportunities. In 2025, over 700 students participated in FSF University. We piloted a program for high-school students, as well as launching our multi-year “Future Forward” Scholarship Program for nine FSF and VAPM Scholars who began their FSF journey as college sophomores.
In addition, as promised in our 2024 strategic plan, we invested in data-driven impact assessment. This year, we surveyed competition applicants, educators, new Scholars, and former Scholars (our Alumni) regarding the perceived value of their FSF experience. We assessed program engagement and completion. We tracked long-term career outcomes for 2,000+ Alumni from 2000–2024 through surveys and LinkedIn research. Our findings—documented throughout these pages—attest to a track record of success and impact. One finding: 70% of all FSF Alumni since 2000, and 90% of FSF and VAPM Alumni from the Classes of 2020–2024, are actively working in the fashion industry.
Of the 160 FSF Scholarships awarded in 2025, 99 were co-branded Named Scholarships created with our partners—a significant increase from nine in 2022. We held four co-branded design competitions in 2025 with the Cactus Jack Foundation, Catalyst Brands, Highsnobiety, and Macy's, Inc. Dozens of our industry partners hosted Scholars and Alumni for panels, job shadows, showroom tours, and events in 2025. Your support makes our work possible and enriches the lives of our Scholars. I look forward to our continued partnership and the impact we will make together.
With gratitude,
PETER ARNOLD Executive Director, FSF
This past spring, I had the honor of succeeding John Tighe as FSF President. I want to thank John for his exceptional leadership and service. His was no ordinary tenure. Under his guidance, the FSF Board and staff transformed itself in scale, scope, and innovation. We succeeded quickly, and on so many fronts, through shared commitment, hard work, and the commitment of an exceptionally nimble organization, led by Peter Arnold.
We have demonstrated our ability to partner with, and challenge, the fashion community to cultivate innovative pathways for talented students. The FSF provides us with the opportunity to learn from and be guided by our future workforce in both design and business career tracks. What inspires them? What motivates them to maintain a long-term career commitment? How can we change to be compelling to the future leaders of our community? How can we represent the highest standards in embracing all viewpoints and experiences? The FSF amplifies these students’ voices and provides abundant opportunities for us to engage them.
Investing in the next generation of talent is imperative. The FSF has demonstrated that it is a uniquely capable partner through its sheer scale, reach, and visibility, as well as its “future forward” thinking and the exuberance of its efforts. And, of course, its documented ability to impact the lives and futures of college undergraduates and emerging professionals.
With pleasure, I look forward to working with Peter, his team, the Board, and our deeply appreciated partners and supporters—current and future—to both expand opportunity and strengthen our industry’s future.
Gratefully,
AMANDA SMITH Chief Exectutive Officer, Fairchild Media Group Board President, FSF
FSF IMPACT FINDINGS
In 2025, FSF surveyed 1,700 scholarship applicants, 300 educators, and over 1,000 Alumni postgraduation, and all 160 incoming Scholars completed detailed surveys sharing their unique perspectives and needs.
Survey findings—highlighted throughout the following pages— clearly demonstrate the FSF’s meaningful and measurable impact on applicants, Scholars, Alumni and the fashion industry at large.
SINCE 2005
FSF has awarded $20+ million in scholarships to 3,000+ undergraduates
1,400+ applicants from 90 schools (FSF Member Schools and non-network schools) participated in the annual FSF Scholarship Competition
$1,900,000+ in scholarship funds were awarded
160 FSF Scholars received scholarships ranging from $10,000 to $25,000
32 FSF Community College Scholars received $5,000 scholarships
66% of FSF Scholars identify as BIPOC
36% of FSF Scholars are Pell Grant-eligible
14% of FSF Scholars are first-generation in their family to attend college
60 new Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” (VAPM) Scholars were named through this legacy scholarship program
90+ Named Scholarships were created by FSF partners and supporters
400+ industry leaders served as mentors and judges
100+ companies partnered with FSF
75 colleges and universities are a part of FSF’s Member School network, including 14 HBCUs and 6 HSIs
FSF’s Alumni community is comprised of 3,000+ former scholarship recipients
For most students, the first step to joining the FSF community is to compete in the annual FSF Case Study Competition. This competition is comprised of four disciplines: business strategy, design and product development, marketing, and merchandising.
In 2025, the annual FSF Case Study Competition challenged students to explore “The Intersection of Digital Technology and Fashion.” The prompt invited students to consider what advanced digital technologies (such as AI, augmented reality [AR], and big data) mean for the future of the fashion industry. Increasing Scholars’ career awareness about the intersection of fashion and technology continues to be a high priority for FSF.
In 2025, FSF redesigned the Case Study process to make the competition even more accessible to applicants and launched FSF University, a new online course for applicants. A new “How to Apply” guide walked applicants through the Case Study submission process and offered an extensive resource list to support their research.
Depending on their chosen discipline, our 2025 Case Study Scholarship Competition asked students to choose an existing brand or retailer and pursue the following:
Business Strategy: Develop an e-commerce AI strategy with the goal of advancing AI integration in fashion
Design and Product Development: Design a collection in order to advance design practices in a technology-driven world
Marketing: Create a digital marketing plan that engages customers
Merchandising: Curate a product assortment maximized by data and digital technology
Over 1,400 qualified applicants from 75 FSF Member Schools and 27 non-network schools competed for the 2025 Case Study Competition.
The FSF Scholarships impact all Scholars—and have a transformational impact on Pell Granteligible students and those who are firstgeneration to college.
Of 2025 Scholars, 94% indicated that being named an FSF Scholar very strongly increased their motivation to pursue a career in the fashion industry. Pell Grant-eligible Scholars were even more likely (99%) to indicate that the scholarship was very important, as were first-generation to college students (97%).
Additionally, FSF continues to expand opportunities in the fashion talent pipeline by forging stronger relationships with HBCUs and HSIs. In total, 14 HBCUs and 6 HSIs are currently in the FSF Member School network. The FSF team also worked with applicants from 27 non-member schools to facilitate access to FSF University and provide those applicants with resources and support similar to an FSF educator partner.
“The FSF Case Study is where students learn to work independently, develop their own concepts, and approach their work with discipline. It prepares them for real-world careers.” —
FSF EDUCATOR SURVEY RESPONDENT
“The FSF has not only opened doors for me, it’s helped me walk through them with confidence. I’m so grateful for the way FSF continuously uplifts and empowers students to shape the future of fashion.”
—PRATEEKSHA PRABHAKAR 2025 FSF Scholar, Indiana University
FSF’s reviewing body of over 200 judges (including FSF mentors, Alumni, and industry partners) selected 160 students to receive awards based on their Case Study scores, including 60 students to be awarded a scholarship from the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund. In total, 160 Scholars were awarded at least $10,000, 90+ of whom received a Named Scholarship. Four topscoring FSF finalists were awarded scholarships of $15,000. One of the four finalists received the Chairman’s Award, the largest award of $25,000.
66% of FSF Scholars identify as BIPOC
36% of FSF Scholars are Pell Grant-eligible
14% of FSF Scholars are first-generation in their family to attend college
In evaluating the 2025 applicant pool, it became clear that a majority of successful applicants had learned about the competition from a school educator. With this in mind, we have deepened our relationships with educators and administrators at our 75 FSF Member Schools and nonnetwork colleges.
“I am so grateful to FSF for providing me with the resources and network needed to believe in myself and achieve my dream.”
—Rachel Stauffer Class of 2025 FSF Scholar, Kent State University
The four recipients with the highest scores presented their Case Studies virtually to a panel of fashion-industry leaders. The 2025 finalist judges were: Emily Erusha-Hilleque, Senior Vice President Macy’s Private Brands; Gabriella Karefa-Johnson, Fashion Editor, Stylist, and Consultant; Jerry Lorenzo, Founder and Creative Director of Fear of God and FSF 2025 Gala Honoree; Kristin Maa , Chief Marketing Officer of Saks Global; and Amanda Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Fairchild Media and FSF Board President. The judges selected one winner for the $25,000 FSF Chairman’s Award Scholarship–FSF’s highest honor—who was later announced at the FSF LIVE Gala in NYC on April 7th, 2025.
A senior at Virginia Commonwealth University who submitted a design and product development Case Study on a technology-driven garment proposal in partnership with AlphaTauri, focusing on fiber advancements and space-suit innovation.
A senior at University of California, Berkeley who submitted a merchandising Case Study on a proposed collaboration between Post Archive Faction and On Running, utilizing digital innovation and standardized supply-chain traceability to advance sustainability transparency in rock-climbing apparel and gear.
A senior at Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah Campus, who submitted a marketing Case Study utilizing generative AI and digital co-creation to expand Crocs’ Jibbitz platform and encourage selfexpression.
A senior at LIM College who submitted a business strategy Case Study on The Ordinary, proposing an AIdriven skincare personalization initiative designed to reduce overconsumption, improve consumer engagement, and address unnecessary waste.
The “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund, created by Virgil Abloh in partnership with the FSF in July 2020, serves as a cornerstone of Virgil’s legacy and a force for industry transformation. Now in its sixth year, it expands opportunities in fashion by providing scholarships to students who identify as Black or African American and those who reflect the creativity, curiosity, and progressive spirit that drive fashion forward. Virgil named the fund “Post-Modern” to signify recipients would not only receive funds, but also ongoing career-support services and mentoring through the FSF.
The Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund experienced significant growth over the past year, doubling its cohort from 30 to 60 Scholars and broadening the program's overall impact. The VAPM team strengthened institutional partnerships by deepening relationships with HBCUs and aligning industry partners such as LVMH and Harlem's Fashion Row’s ICON360. A strategy was initiated to expand equity opportunities to Scholars from other underrepresented groups, as well. These efforts included launching a Latine/x Advisory Group to ensure more culturally informed guidance and a diverse representation in the FSF mentor network.
100% of Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars in the Class of 2026 indicated that being named a VAPM Scholar strongly increased their motivation to pursue a fashion industry career.
92% of VAPM Alumni who graduated college worked in the fashion industry or in closely related roles in 2025.
The Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Advisory Committee also steered the launch of two new FSF initiatives aimed at high school students and talent from non-traditional paths who are interested in fashion careers. The NextGen High School Pipeline Program and the Future Forward Program were launched to foster early awareness and provide support to students throughout their academic and professional journeys.
“In an industry that wasn’t built for people who look like us, it’s essential to build more than a network. We need a community that advocates and mentions our names in rooms we haven’t yet entered. That’s exactly what the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund provides.”
–DANAE HARRISON
Class of 2024 and 2025 FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar Spelman College
“As a four-time “Post-Modern” Scholar and a mentee of Virgil Abloh, I appreciate the opportunities this scholarship has provided me and other students. Virgil was the one who inspired me to pursue fashion design, and I have come so far since seeing “The 10 Collection.” The mission of his scholarship is so important.”
2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025 Virgil
Named Scholarships are bespoke programs created by the Fashion Scholarship Fund in partnership with brands, foundations, and individual donors who support investing in the next generation of fashion talent. Each program provides FSF Scholars with a scholarship award, mentorship, and professional development. In 2025, 131 Named Scholarships (99 for FSF Scholars and 32 for Community College Scholars) were made possible by FSF partners and supporters.
Named Scholarship programs allow partners to recognize Scholars whose interests reflect the partner’s values and priorities, such as sustainability and innovation. For Scholars, they provide access to industry leaders, special mentorship and networking opportunities, and hands-on career-building experiences.
Named Scholars were significantly more likely to be working in the industry five years after college graduation.
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 and who reflect the creativity, curiosity, and progressive spirit that drive fashion forward.
2025 Recipients: Chloe Allen, Kweku Andoh, Lakela Bailey, Sara Balanta , Shamya Banks, Tiffany Barney, Miquelyne Barthelemy, Majesty Bland, Taylor Branch, Kari Brown, Janiyah Bryan, Niara Butler, Mallory Butts, Fatmata Camara , Alanis Castro-Pacheco, Fatoumata Cisse, Emonie Coleman, Paris Cooke-Brown, Faith Crawford, Zachary Crawford, Jordan Dixon, Amaya Evans, Tracy Ewli-Kwakutse, Celia Fennell, Sydney Geis, Ephese Germain, Lauryn Giddings, Benicio Gomez , Gabriella Gooden, Troy Hardges, DaNae Harrison, Kennedy Hoyt , Baiyinah Ings, Ishara Kelsaw-Fletcher, Amanda Kerr, A'nika Lickert , Jefferson Linares, Ashton Lovette, Bliss-Nurah Mack , Chancy Marsh, Jaidyn McCullough, Layla Mersel, Alexandria Minott , Teresa Mitchell, Uchechukwu Moghalu, Fiona Otto, Trinity Philbert , Gabrielle Ribot , Chace Rumley, Brandon Seymour, Mackenzie Speed, Malachi Star, Emma Taylor, Cierra Wajid, Jaida Wamey, Kailynn Washington, Jakarie Whitaker, Kennedi White, Aaron Williams, and Kyndahl Williams
AAFA EDUCATION FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate at an AAFA-affiliated college/university pursuing a business-related discipline or course of study.
2025 Recipient: Kimiko Quayle
AAFA GLOBAL PUBLIC POLICY SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate interested in the development of and advocacy for public policy related to the apparel, footwear, and accessories industry.
2025 Recipient: Prateeksha Prabhakar
ALLAN J. ZWERNER SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate from the University of Florida or other FSF Member School in Florida.
2025 Recipient: Hope Underwood
ALVANON x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who has an interest in size inclusivity and/or 3D-garment product development.
2025 Recipient: Celia Fennell
BCI BRANDS x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Two scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipients: Haili Bruckner and Olivia Lively
BURLINGTON STORES x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to a student demonstrating interest in a discipline or course of study relevant to Burlington Stores. The Scholar may be given special access to corporate mentors and internship opportunities.
2025 Recipient: Mattes Crichton
CACTUS JACK DESIGN ETHOS x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Three scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipients: Jordan Dixon, Amaya Evans, and Bliss-Nurah Mack
CAROLINA HERRERA x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who submits an excellent Case Study in design.
2025 Recipient: Nicole Moreno
CATALYST BRANDS x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Two scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipients: Kevin Ishizuka and Alexandra Lambrinos
DICK’S SPORTING GOODS x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates an interest in sports and/or is a former athlete.
2025 Recipient: Melanie Best
ERIC EMANUEL x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Five scholarships of $10,000 each, with additional grant and apprenticeship opportunities, awarded to undergraduates with entrepreneurial ambition and an awareness of pop culture and digital trends.
2025 Recipients: Kinnera Challapalli, Troy Hardges, Ella Hodges, Jefferson Linares, and Malachi Star
FASHIONPHILE x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipient: Sarah Ambrosius
G-III APPAREL GROUP x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipient: Sara Barthel de Weydenthal
KARL-ANTHONY TOWNS x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Two scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates with an interest in the intersection of fashion and sports.
2025 Recipients: Paris Cooke-Brown and Aaron Williams
KOHL’S x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Three scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to juniors or seniors who submit excellent Case Studies in design and product development or merchandising.
2025 Recipients: A’nika Lickert , Trinity Philbert , and Colby Zur
KURT GEIGER KINDNESS FOUNDATION x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who submits an excellent Case Study in merchandising, marketing, or business strategy.
2025 Recipient: Alanis Castro-Pacheco
LEVI STRAUSS & CO. SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, with an internship opportunity at Levi Strauss & Co., awarded to a student with interest in a discipline or course of study relevant to the company.
2025 Recipient: Amanda Kerr
LICENSING INTERNATIONAL FOUNDATION x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipient: Jaidyn McCullough
MACY’S, INC. JEFF GENNETTE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
Nine scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates selected in collaboration with Macy’s representatives and in alignment with its Mission Every One commitment.
2025 Recipients: Anoushka Ambavanekar, Jennifer DeBellis, Baiyinah Ings, Caitlyn Miller, Jake Schnur, Brandon Seymour, Emma Taylor, Olivia Zhao, and Yimo Zou
MARTY’S LIGHT: THE MARTY STAFF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate interested in menswear or another sector influenced by Marty Staff and who embodies his legacy of fearlessness, innovation, and joy.
2025 Recipient: Bryce Propst
NATIONAL BASKETBALL PLAYERS ASSOCIATION FOUNDATION X FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Two scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to BIPOC undergraduates with an interest in the intersection of fashion, sports, and culture.
2025 Recipients: Niara Butler and Malak Elhaddad
NORDSTROM x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Seven scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates with an interest in sustainability and who reflect Nordstrom’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
2025 Recipients: Majesty Bland, Erin Bond, Tiffany Chen, Zachary Crawford, Alexander Flores, Fiona Otto, and Kennedi White
PEERLESS CLOTHING x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Two scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipients: Justin Le and Lovely Grace Pilibino
PERRY ELLIS INTERNATIONAL x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipient: Oliver Riedinger
PVH FORWARD FASHION x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Nine scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates representing PVH’s commitment to pathways of opportunity in the fashion industry.
2025 Recipients: Lakela Bailey, Miquelyne Barthelemy, Kari Brown, Janiyah Bryan, Gherese Felipe, Adeena Hakim, Chancy Marsh, Claire Swadling, and Kailynn Washington
RALPH LAUREN CORPORATION x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Two scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipients: Tiffany Barney and Faith Crawford
ROSS STORES, INC. SCHOLARSHIPS
Five scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate excellence in retail leadership and merchandising.
2025 Recipients: Sadie Atherton, Leynie Hester, Ishara Kelsaw-Fletcher, Emma Robinson, and Mackenzie Speed
RUNWAY OF DREAMS™ x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate whose Case Study has a direct application to adaptive fashion.
2025 Recipient: Teresa Mitchell
SAKS GLOBAL x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Ten scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates advancing sustainable and ethical fashion.
2025 Recipients: Taylor Branch, Mallory Butts, Alicia Fabella , Gabriella Gooden, DaNae Harrison, Carter Hinds, Yiheng Lu, Lukas Ross, Hiromichi Suzuki, and Kyndahl Williams
SKIMS x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Five scholarships of $10,000 each, with internship opportunities, awarded to undergraduates focused on innovation in ethical and sustainable fashion, adaptive clothing, textile innovation, and size inclusivity.
2025 Recipients: Grace Albright , Kweku Andoh, Kai Blunt , Ava Deakin, and Abigail Piontek
TAPESTRY x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipient: Rachel Stauffer
THE JEWELRY GROUP x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who submits an excellent Case Study in design and product development, merchandising, and/or business strategy.
2025 Recipient: Sharon Choi
TIGHE FAMILY x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipient: Kyd Kacani
TJX x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Five scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates interested in merchandising and/or off-price retail and who reflect TJX’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
2025 Recipients: Aydross Abdulrahim, Rajvi Dharamshi, Zetta Megenhardt , Piper Michalski, and Sofia Sarzosa
TOMMY BAHAMA x FSF SCHOLARSHIP
One scholarship of $10,000, awarded to an undergraduate who demonstrates excellence through the FSF Scholarship Competition.
2025 Recipient: Autumn Chilenski
WEISSMAN x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Four scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates with an interest in dance and who submit excellent Case Studies in design and product development, merchandising, and/or marketing.
2025 Recipients: Megan Huffnagle, Erica Lubomirsky, Alexandria Minott , and Rebecca Parker
WHP GLOBAL x FSF SCHOLARSHIPS
Two scholarships of $10,000 each, awarded to undergraduates selected in collaboration with WHP Global representatives.
2025 Recipients: Fabiana Abreu Suarez and Julie Anstadt-Hernandez
This past year, the FSF awarded 32 scholarships of $5,000 each to students enrolled in community colleges and pursuing an associate degree.
THE VF FOUNDATION x FSF COMMUNITY COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
Twenty scholarships of $5,000 each, made possible by a grant from The VF Foundation.
2025 Recipients: Elyse Abregov, Arrianna Aldridge, Ameerah Attar, Dania Badawi, Victoria Burrell, Teresa Chumpitaz , Dylan Dann, Jacari Dawson, Daniela Franco, Angelica Gutierrez-Lugo, Brisha Herbert , Ciera Hill, Kenza Iddir, Aida Katebi, Nyiel Mayen, Makayla Newkirk , Sarah Oppelt , Joshua Paz , Trinity Rodriguez , Brooke Spraggins
PVH x FSF COMMUNITY COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS
Ten scholarships of $5,000 each. Students participate in professional education programming during their Scholarship year, including an all-expense-paid Fashion-Industry Immersion Program made possible by PVH.
2025 Recipients: Chanele Brown, Courtney Cole, Rainey Colon Cabrera, Carla Lucia Piminchumo, Maleah Puente, Claudia Quintana, Minerva Ramirez Sencion, Walfri Restitullo, Kyra Vans, Eduard Yakubyk
TRUE RELIGION x FSF COMMUNITY COLLEGE BRIDGE SCHOLARSHIPS
Two scholarships of $5,000 each, awarded to students from the greater Los Angeles area with aspirations to pursue a four-year degree and a career in fashion. Renewable as multi-year support with continued eligibility.
2025 Recipients: Awutiu Akol, Christopher Rivera Guzman
The FSF Community College Program was launched in 2021 to demonstrate the potential of students pursuing two-year degrees in community college as an important talent pipeline for the fashion industry.
Thanks to continued support by The VF Foundation, PVH Foundation, and True Religion, 32 students from 10 community colleges were named 2025 FSF Community College Scholars. Each received a $5,000 scholarship and participated in exciting career-building experiences: a three-day Fashion-Industry Immersive Program in New York or California, 10 weeks of professional development through our Summer Scholar Series, and mentorship with an FSF Alumni working in their field of interest.
In New York, Scholars attended meetings at Levi Strauss & Co., Marquee Brands, PVH, and Timberland
In California, Scholars explored Ross Stores, Inc . offices and attended sessions at PacSun and Vans HQ in Orange County. Both the West Coast and East Coast groups benefited from job-search sessions at recruiting agency 24 Seven
The FSF Community College Program 2025 cohort was comprised of Scholars from: Dallas CollegeEl Centro Campus, Des Moines Area Community College, El Camino College, Hocking College, Hostos Community College, Johnson County Community College, Miami Dade College, Saddleback College, Tarrant Community College, and West Valley College.
“Being an FSF Community College Scholar opened my eyes to what’s possible. As a child of immigrants, this opportunity gave me confidence that there’s a place for me in fashion— and that my hard work will pay off.”
The FSF Bridge Fund Grant Program was launched in 2024 to provide resources that remove financial barriers and allow Scholars to say “yes” to important career-building opportunities. Scholars with demonstrable financial need may apply for a Bridge Fund Grant of up to $5,000. Over $90,000 was awarded to 25 FSF and VAPM Scholars in 2025, of which 32% of grantees were first-generation to college, 77% were Pell Grant-eligible, and 40% were VAPM Scholars.
Over $90,000 was awarded to 25 FSF and VAPM Scholars in 2025
36% of grantees were first-generation to college
76% were Pell Grant-eligible
64% were VAPM Scholars
“The FSF Bridge Fund Grant helped me cover rent, food, and transit during my summer internships in NYC. Without this financial assistance, I would not have been able to accept these opportunities and build life-long connections in the industry.”
–FSF BRIDGE FUND GRANT RECIPIENT
In 2025, FSF launched the Future Forward Program: Multi-Year Scholarship. This initiative is specifically aimed at sophomore FSF and Virgil Abloh™ “PostModern” Scholarship Fund Scholars.
The Future Forward Program was designed to provide long-term, holistic support to FSF and VAPM Scholars by awarding multi-year scholarships beginning in the sophomore year and continuing through junior and senior years of college. In addition to ongoing financial support, the program fosters a nurturing ecosystem focused on career development, mentorship, and professional exposure, with the goal of positioning Scholars for post-graduation success.
Also in 2025, and for the first time, FSF selected 30 students from three high schools for the pilot VAPM NextGen: High School Program.
The schools are:
Design and Architecture Senior High School (Miami)
High School of Fashion Industries (NYC)
New Design High School (NYC)
Orientation sessions were held in May 2025 and participants were invited to join the FSF Summer Scholar Series Programs.
The FSF is committed to fostering the next generation of fashion talent through its signature Mentoring Program. Of the 160 Class of 2025 Scholars, 157 were matched with an industry mentor based on affinity groups and career-aligned interests. These thoughtful pairings create meaningful professional connections and measurable value for both Scholars and mentors.
The FSF mentoring community is a group of creative and business professionals that includes mid-level to C-suite executives from companies within the FSF partner and supporter network.
In 2025, 31 FSF mentors were also FSF Alumni—previous FSF Scholarship recipients. For FSF Alumni, mentoring is an opportunity to give back, as well as an important leadership and professional development experience.
96% of Scholars indicated that matching and working with a fashion industry mentor or mentors is very important to them
If you’re interested in mentoring the next generation of fashion, please email fsfprograms@fashionscholarshipfund.org.
“The FSF Mentorship Program has been transformative. My mentor encouraged me to advocate for myself in the workplace. Through her guidance, I have gained confidence in my professional journey.”
—TRACY EWLI-KWAKUTSE 2025 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar, University of Maryland Eastern Shore
FSF staff worked to connect all 160 Class of 2025 Scholars to career-building internships and post-graduation employment by cultivating relationships with recruiters, compiling employment and internship opportunities, and communicating with Scholars during placement season.
In February and again in September of 2025, 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 full-time job opportunities and summer internships. Scholars and Scholar applicants participated in 1,750+ one-on-one video interviews with acquisition representatives from fashion’s leading companies and brands.
To learn how your company can participate in the next FSF Talent Acquisition Event, please contact rsvp@fashionscholarshipfund.org.
In 2025, FSF hosted several Virtual Campus Visits, welcoming prospective 2026 FSF Scholarship Competition applicants from our 75+ Member and 25+ non-member schools across the country.
During the virtual presentations, Scholar panelists and members of the FSF team shared information on the application process and the benefits of competing in the FSF Scholarship Competition. Additionally, the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund hosted virtual campus visits in partnership with HBCUs, including the Atlanta University Center (AUC) featuring Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College.
To help the Class of 2026 Scholar applicants prepare for the 2026 Case Study Competition, the FSF also hosted multiple virtual “Case Study Q&A” sessions, where applicants were given the opportunity to connect with FSF Alumni and glean insight on how they had succeeded in winning their FSF Scholarships.
100% of firstgeneration Scholars indicated that “developing knowledge and skills to find and secure a job in the fashion industry” was very important to them.
89% of Scholars (including 94% of VAPM Scholars, 94% of Pell-eligible Scholars, and 96% of first-generation Scholars) indicated that connections to internships were very important to helping them pursue their career goals.
Additionally, over 100 Alumni members volunteered as Case Study mentors, helping applicants with their submissions throughout the rigorous process.
In 2025, the Fashion Scholarship Fund launched FSF University, an innovative digital program designed to expand access to the FSF Scholarship process for students from all backgrounds—especially those at institutions with limited fashion-education resources.
This initiative was informed by extensive one-on-one conversations with educators across the country about how to best support students from groups historically underrepresented in the fashion industry.
FSF University provides a free, self-paced curriculum delivered through Arizona State University’s Canvas learning system and offers structured guidance through the FSF Case Study application process.
The program includes seven on-demand modules, featuring video presentations, interactive quizzes, and assignments that walk students through researching, drafting, refining, and submitting competitive Case Studies. Students can complete the coursework on their own schedule.
Additionally, students earn a Certificate of Completion that can be showcased on resumes and professional profiles.
FSF University is open to any eligible scholarship applicant, regardless of whether their school participates in the FSF Member network, and it reinforces FSF’s commitment to leveling the playing field and broadening the pipeline of diverse talent entering the fashion industry.
“As someone who is not at an FSF Member School, I loved FSF University. It helped me complete my Case Study. Getting advice and having someone with me each step of the way was so important.”
—2025 APPLICANT
The FSF Summer Scholar Series consisted of 10 weeks of virtual programming, training, and in-person events that were broken down into two weekly professional development sessions: Workforce Preparedness Courses and Master Classes.
FSF’s Workforce Preparedness Courses focused on specific topics and skills to help Scholars be better prepared for a fashion career. Additionally, FSF offered Master Classes. These sessions allowed Scholar applicants, Scholars, and Alumni to hear from industry experts about their own professional journeys and the challenges they’ve faced in their careers.
The FSF offered a Certificate of Completion to those who attended 4+ Workforce Preparedness Courses and 3+ Master Class sessions over the course of the series. More than 100 attendees were awarded a Certificate of Completion and highlighted their accomplishments on their CVs and LinkedIn profiles.
To kick off the 2025 FSF Summer Scholar Series, members of the FSF community came together to connect and network at an in-person cocktail event. The event was hosted by Marc Mastronardi, FSF Board member and President of Equinox , and held at the Equinox HQ in Hudson Yards.
The first virtual session in the 2025 FSF Summer Scholar Series was a Workforce Preparedness Course that gave an overview of the 2026 Case Study Competition topic, “Harnessing the Power of Partnerships: Cross-Industry Collaborations.”
During this session, Scholars were given an inside look at some of fashion’s most unexpected collaborations. Moderated by FSF Board Vice President and Macy’s, Inc. Chief Merchandising Officer, Nata Dvir, the session explored ways in which fashion brands are partnering with companies outside of the fashion sector. Attendees heard from: Leo Gamboa , Vice President, Merchandising and Design Collaborations at Levi Strauss & Co.; David Whetstone, Director, Design Collabs and Energy for The North Face; and Danielle Testa , FSF's 2026 Case Study prompt author.
The next session was a discussion held in partnership with Fifteen Percent Pledge. The “Scholar to Startup: Turning that Idea into a Profitable Business” virtual event gave key insights to fashion students aiming to bridge the gap between creative vision and execution. Attendees heard from successful entrepreneurs on how to refine a concept, identify an audience, and build a brand that resonates.
The session’s panelists included: Jonathan Cohen, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Jonathan Cohen Studios; Kathryn Fortunato, Co-Founder, Head of Sales and Operations of Lizzie Fortunato; and Jessica Rich, Founder of JESSICA RICH. The event was moderated by Robert Burns, Senior Director of Growth and Development-Black Brands at Fifteen Percent Pledge
At the end of June, FSF hosted a Master Class exploring “An Inside Look at The Met’s Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”, with The Met’s Guest Curator Monica L. Miller and Moderator Marley Marius, Features Editor at Vogue. This one-hour session dove into the Spring 2025 exhibition of The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute, which examined 300 years of Black fashion.
The summer lineup also included “Dream Role Ready: From Resume to Reality”. For this session, talent leaders from major fashion companies gave students insights on every stage of the interview process. The discussion covered an array of topics from applying for a first role to preparing for a career move.
In early July, Raul Lopez , Founder and Creative Director of LUAR , hosted a Master Class in conversation with Laia Garcia-Furtado, Vogue Runway’s Senior Fashion News Editor. Lopez shared how his Dominican heritage, Brooklyn upbringing, and commitment to cultural authenticity shaped LUAR’s rise into one of today’s most exciting fashion labels.
Next in the lineup, FSF Scholars, Alumni, and Scholar applicants joined FSF for an insightful conversation with Robin Givhan, friend of FSF and Pulitzer Prize–winning fashion critic and author. During this session, moderated by Edward Enninful OBE , Robin discussed her anticipated new book, Make It Ours, and unpacked the cultural impact of the late fashion-industry visionary and former FSF Board member, Virgil Abloh
Another Summer Scholar Series highlight included a conversation with Rachel Scott , Founder and Creative Director of Diotima , Creative Director of Proenza Schouler, and recipient of the CFDA's Empowered Vision Award (2024) and the Fashion Trust’s Ready-to-Wear Award (2025). Scott shared how she built a global brand rooted in Jamaican craft, cultural storytelling, and contemporary design. The session was moderated by Creative Director Edward Buchanan
The Class of 2025 Scholars also attended an in-person event in partnership with Carolina Herrera that was designed to support each student’s journey through the FSF Mentorship Program. From building one-on-one relationships to expanding professional networks, this session offered strategies to help Scholars foster authentic connections that drive long-term success.
At the end of July, FSF hosted a virtual panel discussion on how social content shapes the fashion landscape. “Maximizing Your Presence Through the Power of Social Media in Fashion” explored how students can strengthen their social presence— whether they’re building a brand or managing their company’s channels. Speakers included: Charlotte Bentley, Director of Strategic Communications at Moda Operandi; Angel Stewart , Social Media Strategist at Tailored Brands and 2023 FSF Scholar; Lauren Youngblood , Creative Production Lead at Meta and 2013 FSF Scholar; and Moderator Sam Todd , FSF Social Media and Brand Marketing Consultant.
In August, the FSF community tuned in for a Master Class focused on how to stay in-theknow in the current fashion media landscape. Hosted by Amanda Smith, CEO of Fairchild Media Group and FSF Board President , the conversation featured top editors from WWD, including: Alex Badia , Style Director; Evan Clark , Deputy Managing Editor; and Kristen Tauer, Deputy Eye Editor.
To close out the 2025 Summer Scholar Series, FSF Scholars and Alumni toasted the end of the season at The Met. They enjoyed a self-guided tour of the “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” exhibit followed by refreshments on the Cantor Roof Garden Bar.
96% of Scholars indicated that “developing knowledge and skills to feel confident and prepared in navigating the fashion industry and advancing in my career” was very important to them
“It’s honestly impossible for me to pick just one favorite session because I truly enjoyed all of them! Each gave me meaningful exposure, fresh insight, and a chance to grow.”
—2025
FSF continues to elevate the leadership and voices of our Alumni. In the past year, and for the first time, two FSF Alumni joined the FSF Board of Governors to represent their peers and bring their unique perspectives to program planning and implementation.
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 Senior Designer for United Legwear & Apparel Co.; 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 Project Manager, Collaborations and Partnerships at Levi Strauss & Co.; and Marrisa Wilson, 2013 FSF Scholar from Marist University and Founder and Creative Director of MARRISA WILSON NY. The group works closely with the Alumni Committee Chair and FSF Board member, Celeste Gudas, Founder and Chairwoman of 24 Seven, Inc.
After the FSF LIVE Gala on April 7, 2025, over 60 members of the Alumni community gathered at AS IS NYC. The meet-up offered Alumni the opportunity to connect with fellow members and celebrate the evening in a relaxed, social setting.
In May, FSF expanded its national footprint by hosting a West Coast Alumni event that brought together Alumni members and FSF Scholars. The in-person event featured a panel conversation between Jess Cuevas, Multimedia Artist, Stylist, and Art Director for Willy Chavarria; and Christina Frank , Curator at the ASU FIDM Museum. The evening concluded with an FSF community-building reception that created meaningful connections across regions and generations of the FSF network.
To kick off the fall season, the FSF Mentoring Committee in partnership with Calvin Klein hosted FSF Scholars and Alumni for an inside look at how Calvin Klein teams align strategy, creativity, and execution to launch impactful collections and campaigns. Speakers included: Rose Bent , Senior Director Sourcing and Product Development-Women's Apparel; Ashley Caffiero, Director of Merchandising Men's Wovens, Tailoring, and Outerwear; Lucas Dishian, Manager, Global Integrated Marketing; Marcus Lablanc , Head of Men’s Design; Clay Lute, Global Merchant-Men’s Denim, Moderator, and FSF Alumni member; and Lauren Slatter, Senior Director at Omni Channel DMM-Men’s Apparel.
Later in the year, FSF launched a new virtual Alumni Leadership Series, designed for mid-career Alumni who want to make a greater impact. This four-part series featured FSF Board members: Sam Archibald, Chief Merchandising Officer of Fanatics Commerce; Celeste Gudas, Founder and Chairwoman of 24 Seven Talent; Marc Mastronardi, President of Equinox; and Mecca Mitchell, SVP of Leadership and Organizational Development, DEI, and Community Impact at Burlington Stores, Inc. The leaders shared real-world insights on topics such as mentorship, strategic thinking, and career transitions.
“I learned many lessons through FSF, but the most important is the power of your network. From classmates to internships, many of the industry people you meet will stay with you throughout your career.”
On April 7, 2025, more than 900 industry leaders, designers, press, and FSF Scholars and Alumni gathered at NYC’s Glasshouse to toast the FSF Class of 2025, 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.
FSF honored Erin and Sara Foster, Co-Founders, Favorite Daughter; Jerry Lorenzo, Founder and Creative Director, Fear of God; and Tony Spring , Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Macy’s Inc. The 2025 Gala was hosted by Designer Christian Siriano and Supermodel Coco Rocha
in creating an exciting career-exploration experience for the 160 Class of 2025 FSF Scholars during their three-day trip to NYC for the 2025 FSF LIVE Gala:
• On the morning of the FSF Gala, Scholars were invited to a breakfast and “Fireside Chat” with Tony Spring , Chairman and CEO of Macy’s, Inc.
• In the afternoon, Scholars joined WWD for a panel discussion at their New York offices. The students heard from industry executives, including James Fallon, Chief Content Officer, WWD and Fairchild Media Group; Deirdre Quinn, CEO and Co-Founder of Lafayette 148; Jackson Wiederhoeft , Owner and Designer of Wiederhoeft; and Henry Zankov, Founder and Designer of ZANKOV Studio.
• The morning after the FSF LIVE Gala, Scholars attended professional development events at partner companies and Named Scholarship supporters, including FENDI , Louis Vuitton , Macy’s , Nordstrom , PVH , SKIMS , and Tiffany & Co., among others.
We thank all our partners who helped create memorable “behind-the-scenes” learning opportunities for FSF Scholars.
“The FSF LIVE experience in New York City was truly unforgettable. Being surrounded by fellow Scholars and industry leaders expanded my network and opened doors. I felt supported, inspired, and connected to the FSF community”
In November, the FSF community gathered at the home of James LaForce and Stephen Henderson for an inspiring evening of conversation and celebration. The event was hosted by Amanda Smith, FSF Board President and CEO of Fairchild Media; Daniella Kallmeyer, Founder and Creative Director of KALLMEYER; Brandon Maxwell, Founder and Creative Director of Brandon Maxwell; and Peter Arnold , FSF Executive Director. Attendees heard from Fatmata Camara , the 2025 Chairman’s Award winner; and 2025 finalist Flora Medina
Thanks to the investment of a record number of corporate partners, FSF awarded $1.9+ million in scholarship funding to 160 members of its Class of 2025 Scholars, as well as 32 Community College Scholars. FSF’s partners not only provided scholarship funding—they enriched the experiences of our Scholars by providing mentorship, creating educational and social events, offering job-shadowing opportunities, and providing connections to internships and employment.
We are pleased to share some partnership highlights below. We are so grateful to all FSF supporters for their meaningful impact on our Scholars’ lives.
In partnership with Macy’s, we were proud to announce FSF Scholar Hiromichi Suzuki as the winner of the Macy’s I.N.C. Design Challenge. Hiromichi's capsule collection embodied the spirit of I.N.C., showcasing a fresh perspective on modern womenswear. In addition to receiving a $10,000 prize, one of his designs was manufactured, marketed, and sold by Macy’s.
In February, Jordan Dixon, 2025 Cactus Jack Design Ethos Scholar; Amanda Kerr, 2024 Cactus Jack Design Ethos Scholar; and Kailynn Washington, 2025 Virgil-Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar, attended the Cactus Jack Foundation HBCU Celebrity Softball Classic in Houston, Texas. Additionally, Scholars participated in a design workshop at Cactus Design Center, where they had the opportunity to display their work and meet with Founder Travis Scott and his team.
FSF Alumna Ahmrii Johnson, Class of 2020, 2021, and 2022 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar from Parsons School of Design, alongside Class of 2020 Scholar Daveed Baptiste, were featured in KidSuper’s “The People’s Runway” during New York Fashion Week. Vogue Runway reported on the event.
In April, FSF and Catalyst Brands launched a design competition inspired by The Blackprint , challenging participants to explore how cultural movements define success, resilience, and innovation. The winning Scholar, Fatmata Feika , Class of 2023 FSF Community College Scholar (who later matriculated to Kent State University); and runner-up, Courtney Cole, Class of 2025 Community College Scholar, both from Hocking College, received a cash prize, mentorship from Catalyst Brands leadership, and the opportunity to have their graphic printed on a t-shirt produced and sold by JCPenney.
FSF Executive Director, Peter Arnold , was invited to speak at The Wall Street Journal’s “The Future of Everything” conference, where he took the stage with Gena Smith, J. Crew Group’s Chief Human Resources Officer and FSF Board member, to discuss AI in the fashion industry.
This past summer, the five 2025 SKIMS x FSF Scholars—Grace Albright , Parsons School of Design; Kweku Andoh, Fordham University; Kai Blunt , Syracuse University; Ava Deakin, University of Southern California; and Abigail Piontek ,
University of Missouri—participated in a virtual internship program at SKIMS. The SKIMS x FSF Scholarships are awarded to undergraduates who demonstrate talent and commitment to solutions around areas of thematic interest for SKIMS, such as advancing ethical and sustainable fashion, adaptive clothing, textile innovation, and size inclusivity. The internship culminated with a week-long immersive trip to Los Angeles where Scholars worked with managers, shadowed various leaders, and learned about the SKIMS design process. Each Scholar also presented a final project to the SKIMS team.
FSF partnered with Coach, the Coach Foundation, and Tapestry to include Scholars in Coach Dream Day 2025, an annual event that offers students the opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments alongside industry leaders. Throughout the experience, Scholars engaged with Coach team members, gained insight into the brand’s craftsmanship-driven approach, and connected with professionals across the organization.
FSF also announced the launch of the Coach Foundation x FSF Scholarship Program. Beginning with the FSF Class of 2026, the program will support Scholars who demonstrate a commitment to pursuing careers in leathercraft. The initiative is designed to equip students with specialized leathercraft skills while creating career pathways through an immersive summer internship program and professional mentorship opportunities.
As a Kurt Geiger Kindness Foundation x FSF Scholar and 2025 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar, Alanis CastroPacheco, Susquehanna University, gained a global perspective on the fashion industry through an immersive internship with Kurt Geiger. In May and June, Alanis worked across the brand’s New York and London offices, gaining hands-on experience in PR, marketing, and the operations of a global fashion company.
At the end of July, Nordstrom hosted their seven 2025 Nordstrom x FSF Scholars—Majesty Bland , Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design; Erin Bond , Otis College of Art and Design; Tiffany Chen, Lehigh University; Zachary Crawford , Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design; Alexander Flores, Parsons School of Design; Fiona Otto, Arizona State University; and Kennedi White, Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah Campus—for a three-day trip to Seattle to meet with the Nordstrom team. Scholars toured the company headquarters, learned from Nordstrom executives about the business, and networked with their mentors.
Highsnobiety and the Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund partnered to create a limited-edition t-shirt celebrating the power of collaboration in fashion and design. Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars and Alumni competed to design one of the 20 t-shirts included in a collection honoring Highsnobiety’s 20th anniversary to be showcased during Men’s Fashion Week in Paris. The winner of the competition, Ahmrii Johnson, Class of 2020, 2021, and 2022 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholar, who attended Parsons School of Design, received a design stipend and traveled to Berlin for the 20th Anniversary celebration.
In September, and in partnership with the Institute of Black Imagination, BIPOC FSF community members attended an in-person conversation among Black creative leaders from across the African diaspora that explored culture-shifting work in fashion and creative industries. Speakers included: Marielle Bobo, VP of Content at Shoptalk; Sandrine Charles, Co-Founder of the Black in Fashion Council; and Antoine Gregory, Founder of Black Fashion Fair, with moderation by Dario Calmese, Founder of Institute of Black Imagination
Later in the year, FSF partnered with LVMH’s LEAD (Employees of African Descent) ERG and hosted VAPM x LVMH LEAD: From Passion to Profession, a virtual session that connected Scholars with senior leaders in luxury retail. Speakers included: Jason Johnson, Senior Manager of Human Resources at Christian Dior Couture and LEAD ERG President; Jill Pemberton, LVMH Chief Financial Officer, North America; Kaelan Sharperson, Grand Vendeur, International Elite Clients Team at Christian Dior; and Samantha Warrick, LVMH Chief Strategy and Operations Counsel.
The Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund collaborated with ICON360 in 2025 to host The Black Visionary Masterclass Series. This three-part virtual series brought together students, young professionals, and industry trailblazers and focused on cultural storytelling, networking, and personal branding. Speakers included: Travis Burgin, Strategic Consultant, formerly VP, Brand and Culture Engagement, Gucci; Randy Cousin, SVP, Global Business Unit Lead of Runway and Collaborations, Tommy Hilfiger; Imani Ellis, Founder and CEO, CULTURECON and The Creative Collective; Patrick ‘Fresh’ Henry, Founder and Creative Director, Richfresh; Busayo Olupona , Founder, Busayo; and Jovan Martin, VP, Media-North America, LVMH.
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 2025 partners for their important investments in and commitment to our FSF Scholars. For information about creating an impactful partnership initiative with FSF, contact development@fashionscholarshipfund.org.
In January 2026, WWD published two pages in WWD Digital Daily announcing the Class of 2026 FSF Scholarship recipients and thanking FSF’s generous supporters. The ad was linked to an FSF microsite that introduced our newest class of Scholars to the industry and featured each scholarship recipient's Case Study, CV, and profile information.
View the Class of 2026 FSF Scholars , including the sixth cohort of “Post-Modern” Scholars. The 160 members of the Class of 2026 represent a wide range of creative and business disciplines and attend 130+ colleges and universities across the U.S.
67% of our new Scholars are BIPOC, 19% are first-generation to college, and 42% demonstrate a financial need. The Class of 2026 includes 60 Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholars, bringing the total number of scholarships awarded through this legacy scholarship program to 220.
FSF, the 2025 FSF LIVE Gala, and FSF partner initiatives garnered substantial news coverage in 2025.
READ MORE ON THE FSF WEBSITE
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. In 2025, FSF elected two FSF Alumni to its Board as part of a new commitment to continual Alumni Board representation. Alumni also served important roles in FSF Board committees.
VIRGIL ABLOH+ Off-White Founder and Chief Creative Director
MIKE ALIC Industry Consultant
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
DAVID BASSUK AlixPartners Partner and Managing Director, Global Leader, Retail
KRISTY CASTELLUCCIO
Levi Strauss & Co. Vice President of Wholesale, Sales Ops and Strategy
CAROLYN D’ANGELO*
Gordon Brothers Senior Managing Director, Head of Brand Operations
NATA DVIR*
Macy’s, Inc.
Chief Merchandising Officer FSF Board Vice President
HOWARD FELLER* H. Feller Enterprises Founder
MIKE FRALIX [TC]2 President and CEO
KIERA GANANN* The Children’s Place
Senior Vice President, Head of Merchandising
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 CAPECE MINUTOLO * Beauty 4U Chief Executive Officer
DAVID KATZ*
Randa Apparel & Accessories EVP, Chief Marketing Officer
HILDY KURYK Artemis Strategies Partner
MATT LAUKAITIS
Alpha Insight Partners Founding Principal
JESSICA LOMAX
Calvin Klein Chief Design Officer
MARC MASTRONARDI* Equinox President
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
EMILIE RUBINFELD Carolina Herrera Ltd. President
MICHAEL SETOLA* Tharanco Lifestyles CEO and 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 FSF Board President
GENA SMITH J.Crew Group, LLC 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, and Accessories-North American Wholesale
JOHN TIGHE* Tailored Brands President and CEO FSF Board Chairman
LANA TODOROVICH* Saks Global Chief Global Brands Officer
JENNIFER VECCHIO* Burlington Stores, Inc. Group President, Chief Merchandising Officer
MEGHAN WILLIS Under Armour VP of Product Development, Apparel and Accessories
MICHELLE WLAZLO JCPenney Brand CEO
MELISSA WORTH
Abercrombie and Fitch Co. EVP, MD Americas
+In memory
*Executive committee member
The Chairman’s Circle is a non-governing body of emeritus members of the FSF Board of Governors that serves as a powerful ally 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—influential individuals who lend prestige and credibility to the Fashion Scholarship Fund through their professional achievements and/or field leadership. They are key to advancing FSF’s work.
KEITH BAPTISTA PRODJECT Managing Partner
GLEN ELLEN BROWN Ember Advisory Co-Founder and Managing Partner
ABBEY DONEGER
DONEGER | TOBE President and CEO
DEBRA
MALBIN
Debra Malbin Associates Founder
PETER SACHSE Tailored Brands Executive Chairman of the Board
WILLIAM SUSMAN Cascadia Capital LLC Managing Director
ELECTA VARNISH Industry Consultant
KENNETH WYSE Wyse Consulting, LLC President
Board and Chairman’s Circle lists as of March 1, 2025
“My commitment to FSF stems from a belief in the transformative power of creativity and design in shaping the future of fashion. I am continually inspired by everyone I meet through the Fashion Scholarship Fund, and I’m proud to be part of an organization that empowers the next generation of leaders.”
–JESSICA LOMAX Chief Design Officer, Calvin Klein Board Member, Fashion Scholarship Fund
Fiscal Year 2025 (ending July 31, 2025)
Peter Arnold Executive Director
Isael Andrade
Virgil Abloh™ “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund and Equity Program Operations Assistant
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
Namra Khan Internships and Mentoring Program Manager
Corrina O’Brien Head of Advancement
Lindsay Quackenbush Partnerships and Marketing Manager
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
