The Fashion Scholarship Fund (FSF) has announced its Class of 2025 Scholars, a cohort of promising young talents poised to shape the future of National Fashion. Seven students from Columbia College Chicago are among the honorees, demonstrating the school’s commitment to fostering innovation and leadership within the fashion industry. These scholars will be recognized at the FSF LIVE Gala in New York City on April 7, 2025.
Redefining National Fashion Through Innovation
This year’s FSF scholars represent a diverse group of emerging leaders who are pushing the boundaries of national fashion through groundbreaking projects. Their work leverages cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) to address real-world challenges in design, merchandising, and retail. The scholars’ case studies explore the intersection of fashion and technology, offering fresh perspectives on how innovation can drive positive change within the industry. This prestigious national cohort includes five first-time recipients, one two-time recipient, and one three-time recipient of the $10,000 scholarship. Four scholars were also recognized as Virgil Abloh “Post-Modern” Scholars, a distinction dedicated to promoting equity and inclusion in fashion.
Columbia College Chicago: A Hub for National Fashion Talent
Among the standout projects is a study by three-time Virgil Abloh “Post-Modern” Scholar and Ralph Lauren Corporation x FSF Scholarship recipient, Tiffany Barney. Inspired by the 2024 Summer Olympics, Barney explored the use of jewelry as self-expression in athletics. Her research led to the development of a data-driven merchandising plan for New Balance, aimed at making athlete-inspired jewelry accessible to a wider audience. Fellow scholar, Olivia Byam, focused on the evolution of WNBA uniforms. Using AI-powered body tracking software, Byam designed performance-enhancing apparel that empowers athletes and reflects the growing prominence of women’s basketball.
Addressing Real-World Challenges in National Fashion
First-time FSF Scholar Sassy Dougherty tackled the opportunity for DICK’S Sporting Goods to expand its adaptive and single-shoe offerings. Utilizing DICK’S AI database, Dougherty developed a strategy to personalize the customer experience and optimize sales for this niche market. The collaborative environment at Columbia College Chicago played a crucial role in the scholars’ success. Students benefited from mentorship, peer feedback, and the guidance of faculty members like Associate Professor Dana Connell, who challenged them to refine their ideas and produce impactful work.
The Future of National Fashion: Diversity and Inclusion
The FSF will award over $1.9 million in scholarships to more than 190 students nationwide, reflecting a commitment to diversity and inclusion within the national fashion landscape. The 2025 Scholars represent a wide range of backgrounds, with 66% identifying as BIPOC, 14% as first-generation college students, and 36% as Pell Grant-eligible. These exceptional students are not only contributing to the advancement of national fashion but also paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future for the industry. Their recognition at the FSF LIVE Gala signifies their potential to become influential figures in the world of fashion. These Columbia College Chicago students embody the future of national fashion, merging technology with creativity to drive meaningful change and innovation.
