Celebrating Entrepreneurial Excellence at the Fashion Institute
FIT Recognizes Student Innovation with Bob Fisch Awards
CulturClasm and Brooks Avenue Business Plans Receive $25,000 Each in Funding for Future Growth
The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), part of the State University of New York (SUNY), has honored two exemplary students with the prestigious $25,000 Bob Fisch Awards for Entrepreneurial Excellence. These awards were established by Bob Fisch, a leader in the fast fashion retail industry and a notable author, to support the professional journeys of emerging talents in the fashion sector.
Bob Fisch, who has been influential in revolutionizing value-priced retail, expressed his admiration for the students’ dedication and creativity. He noted, "These students have inspired me through their academic pursuits. It has been a privilege to mentor them as they have infused their projects with not just skill but passion. Their journeys from starting graduate school to emerging confident professionals is truly rewarding to witness. Embracing the principle of 'pivoting,' they are now equipped to tackle future challenges while pursuing their ambitions. The future is bright for these talented individuals!"
FIT's President, Joyce F. Brown, emphasized that Fisch's assistance goes beyond mere financial aid. She stated, "Bob's role as a mentor is invaluable. His guidance during students' projects creates a unique learning environment where they can exchange ideas and expand their horizons. His belief in a reciprocal mentor-mentee relationship enriches the experience for everyone involved."
Since the inception of the awards in 2022, Fisch has granted eight entrepreneurial awards to students from various graduate programs. Dr. Brooke Carlson, the interim dean of the School of Graduate Studies, highlighted, "The impact of these awards, combined with mentorship from Bob, plays a critical role in shaping the students’ futures. We are sincerely thankful for his continued generosity."
The latest recipients of the Bob Fisch Award for Entrepreneurial Excellence include:
CulturClasm Team
Abbey DeFulviis, Erin Moronell, and Jessica Schneider from the Global Fashion Management MPS program. Their project, CulturClasm, addresses the issue of exclusive networking within the fashion industry in a major city. Their innovative approach aims to build a community for fashion professionals, fostering connections and mentorship opportunities.
Schneider remarked, "Receiving this award affirms the need for collaboration in fashion, which we aim to accomplish. We are excited to cultivate significant professional relationships." CulturClasm plans to use the funds to enhance its digital marketing efforts.
Brooks Avenue Brand
Lawson Park, a student in the Fashion Design MFA program, developed Brooks Avenue, a successful apparel brand known for its signature prints. Park stated, "This entrepreneurial journey has reinforced my creative spirit. It's motivating to receive validation from someone like Bob, and I look forward to further growing my brand." The award proceeds will support her expansion plans, including developing her thesis collection and increasing wholesale distribution.
Previous recipients of the Bob Fisch Awards include several notable graduates who have developed successful brands and initiatives, demonstrating the empowering effects of Fisch's mentorship and financial support.
Since its launch in 2021, the Bob Fisch Awards have served as an extension of a broader graduate program at FIT that promotes entrepreneurship and the importance of mentoring. This initiative provides students with essential grants, scholarships, and informational workshops aimed at facilitating academic and professional growth.
FIT's Fashion Design MFA program encourages innovative thinking through practice-based research. It welcomes not only traditional fashion students but those with diverse backgrounds, fostering a rich environment for creative experimentation. On the other hand, the Global Fashion Management MPS program focuses on a comprehensive skill set encompassing leadership, analytical thinking, and effective communication, alongside courses that address global business and marketing strategies.
About the FIT School of Graduate Studies
The School of Graduate Studies at FIT delivers advanced education across several distinctive areas, enhancing post-baccalaureate studies in fashion, business, art, and design.
About the FIT Foundation
The FIT Foundation, established in 1944, acts as the primary fundraising body for FIT, aiming to support programs that inspire students and drive innovation within the fashion industry.
About Bob Fisch
Recognized as a trailblazer in fast fashion retailing, Bob Fisch is known for his transformative leadership at rue21. He has authored notable books and continues to mentor the next generation of retail professionals through his consulting endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bob Fisch Award?
The Bob Fisch Award is a recognition given to outstanding graduate students in FIT’s Fashion programs, offering financial support and mentorship.
How has the award impacted students?
The award provides financial resources and valuable mentorship, helping students to advance their careers and entrepreneurial ventures.
Who established the Bob Fisch Awards?
Bob Fisch, the founder and former CEO of rue21, established these awards to support and empower students in the fashion industry.
What types of projects are recognized by the awards?
Projects that showcase innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurial spirit in the fashion industry are recognized by the awards.
When were the Bob Fisch Awards launched?
The Bob Fisch Awards were launched in 2021 to celebrate entrepreneurial excellence among FIT's graduate students.
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