Center for Retailing Studies Partnered with CLC to Deliver Unique Educational Experience at New York Fashion Week: The Shows

As New York again became the epicenter of the fashion world for the February 2020 Fashion Week, marketing students Haley Seiba ‘20 and Amanda Dyer ‘20 were treated to a one-of-a-kind educational experience thanks to a collaboration between Texas A&M University, CLC, the university’s exclusive trademark licensing agency, and IMG’s fashion events division. Dyer and Seiba were 2 of 17 students from 9 universities that participated in the program designed to support innovation and the development of future leaders in the fashion industry.

This unique academic enrichment program provided a behind-the-scenes look at the fashion industry, including entry into select runway shows and networking opportunities with industry leaders, as well as a panel discussion with entrepreneurs and executives with top collegiate licensees. The students experienced two NYFW runway shows, as well as backstage tours to observe the production and execution of a fashion show.

“Getting the opportunity to hear from CEO’s and other fashion company executives was the most amazing experience I’ve ever taken part in. I truly believe everything I learned will help prepare me for a career in the fashion industry,” Seiba said.

In addition to the experiences at New York Fashion Week: The Shows, the students spent time with key staff at sports fashion brand Champion and had the opportunity to customize their own gear. The students also participated in an interactive panel hosted by the founders of collegiate jewelry licensee KYLE CAVAN that included leadership from collegiate fashion licensee Hillflint, direct-to-consumer brand Suitably, Rent the Runway, a leader in online rentable fashion, and the founder of digital media outlet College Fashionista.

“Annabel from Suitably gave me a lot of reassurance to stay true to myself, and that the best way to success is not trying to conform or be like everyone else,” Dyer explained. “I learned how important it is not to be afraid of putting yourself out there.”

The program delivered unique academic enrichment opportunities for the students with costs covered by the universities. Other institutions participating in this collegiate enrichment program at NYFW: The Shows include the University of Arizona, University of Delaware, Eastern Illinois University, University of Michigan, Michigan State University, University of South Carolina, TCU, and Virginia Tech.

“We are committed to delivering opportunities for future leaders in the industry to engage and learn from others that know what it takes to be successful,” said Leslie Russo, Executive Vice President, IMG. “This unique experience aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are happy to partner with our colleagues at CLC to welcome these great students to NYFW: The Shows.”

“This unique collaboration with IMG’s fashion division allows us to offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience and insight into the fashion industry to some of the best and brightest students from our partner institutions,” said Cory Moss, SVP and Managing Director of IMG College Licensing. “In providing resources and opportunities beyond what a traditional licensing partner can provide, we deliver greater value to their campuses and communities while promoting innovation and learning.”

Participating students were asked to chronicle their experiences through social media using #UofNYFW and share their learnings with other students upon their return to campus.

“I’m so grateful that I was chosen by the Center for Retailing Studies for this program,” Seiba added. “This experience helped me realize my true passion for working in the fashion industry and how determined I am to make my mark on the world.”

###

About the Center for Retailing Studies
Since opening in 1983, the Center for Retailing Studies has been respected throughout the world as a leading source of industry knowledge and a pipeline for developing future retail leaders. In collaboration with the outstanding performance of the faculty at Mays Business School and excellence in student education programs, each year, more than 150 students complete coursework, internships, and leadership programs that prepare them for a professional career within the industry in store management, buying, merchandising, planning, business analytics, and supply chain.
Follow us: @TAMURetail

About CLC
CLC is the nation’s leading collegiate trademark licensing company and part of Learfield IMG College, which unlocks the value of college sports for brands and fans through an omnichannel platform. The company’s extensive commerce, experiential and media solutions create ultimate opportunities for fan engagement. The Learfield IMG College suite of services includes licensing and multimedia sponsorship management; publishing, broadcasting, digital and social media; ticket sales and professional concessions expertise; branding; campus-wide business and sponsorship development; and venue technology systems. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, the company has long had the privilege of being an advocate for intercollegiate athletics and the student-athlete experience. Since 2008, it has served as title sponsor for the acclaimed Learfield IMG College Directors’ Cup, supporting athletic departments across all divisions.

About IMG
IMG is a global leader in sports, fashion, events and media. The company manages some of the world’s greatest athletes and fashion icons; owns and operates hundreds of live events annually; and is a leading independent producer and distributor of sports and entertainment media. IMG also specializes in licensing, sports training and league development. IMG is a subsidiary of Endeavor, a global entertainment, sports and content company.

---

For more information, please contact:
Andrew Vernon, Center for Retailing Studies
avernon@mays.tamu.edu

Tammy Purves, CLC
(404) 932-3266 or tammy.purves@clc.com