FIT Foundation

History and Statement

In 1944, apparel industry leaders organized The Educational Foundation for the Apparel Industries, obtaining a charter from the New York Board of Regents to establish a “fashion institute of design and technology.” Charged with nurturing and educating future leaders for the constantly evolving fashion industry, the Fashion Institute of Technology opened its doors to 100 students its first semester. The Foundation continued, having as its primary mission the support to the College.

In 2011, the Foundation’s name was changed to the Fashion Institute of Technology Foundation (or FIT Foundation). Today, the FIT Foundation still serves as an advisory and fundraising body to FIT. Board members, who include today’s leaders and innovators, serve on panels and appear as special lecturers, enabling students to meet outstanding representatives from the fields of design, merchandising, production, communications, and the arts.

The FIT Foundation is designated as a tax-exempt institution under Federal Internal Revenue Service Code Section 501(c)(3). FIT has received recognition from the fashion and related industries, alumni, and friends through generous financial gifts. The list of commencement awards, loan funds, and scholarships the Foundation supports attests to their commitment to the college.

Mission

The FIT Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation established to secure and build long-term giving support that furthers the purpose and mission of the Fashion Institute of Technology through advocacy, resource development, and resource management. Volunteers and staff working on behalf of the FIT Foundation maintain relationships with industry colleagues, alumni, friends, and members of the FIT community.

Among its activities the FIT Foundation:

• Provides philanthropic leadership by raising funds and educating others about charitable giving opportunities in support of FIT.
• Assists the Fashion Institute of Technology and the personnel of the College in providing a premier educational experience and reinforcing the relationship between the College and its various stake holders.
  Such as providing internships and employment opportunities, participating on advisory boards, and engaging in speaking opportunities.
• Enhances the college community, particularly alumni, connection by assuring that representation on the Foundation reflects the academic breadth of the institution.
  Such as inclusion of alumni as Foundation Directors and continual vigilance that the Foundation Board of Directors reflects the College.
• Matches institutional fundraising priorities with donors’ charitable intentions.
  Maintain awareness of funding priorities; understand College’s strategic plan, and coordinate annual strategy.
• Provides sound fiscal management and stewardship of all assets held in trust for the benefit of Fashion Institute of Technology.
  Understand institutional priorities and goals and networking on behalf of the College.
• Promotes a positive public image of FIT.