Bowie State Faculty Awarded Stipends and Attend HBCU Professor Retreat to Strengthen Fashion Industry Pipeline

Focus on Increasing Fashion Opportunities for Students

Faculty from Bowie State University’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts joined professors from 15 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) for the 2025 HBCU Professor Retreat, a national event focused on empowering HBCU fashion educators and expanding opportunities for students in the fashion industry. The retreat facilitated collaboration between educators and top fashion companies, helping to build stronger career pipelines for underrepresented talent in the field. 

Presented by ICON360, the nonprofit arm of Harlem Fashion Row (HFR), the HBCU Professor Retreat offered solution-driven sessions aimed at advancing fashion education and building bridges between industry leaders and faculty from HBCU fashion programs. 

Saika Joseph, director of corporate partnerships for ICON360, noted the growing momentum of the event. 

“Only 10% of HBCUs have a fashion program and they are woefully under resourced,” said Joseph. “One of the goals of the Retreat was to connect the professors with representatives from some of the major fashion brands to help increase the pipeline of diverse talent in the fashion industry. I’ve been working with Bowie State fashion department educators since 2021 and the professors still bring energy and enthusiasm to this affair.” 

The Retreat provided faculty with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to top retail and fashion companies, offering insights into trends, employment needs and emerging opportunities for Bowie State students. Topics included curriculum development, internship programs and preparing students for careers in a competitive and evolving industry. 

“The Harlem Fashion Row HBCU Professor Retreat is more than just a gathering,” said Bowie State Fashion Professor Maggy Francois. “It’s a powerful and intentional space designed for HBCU fashion educators to connect, collaborate and cultivate meaningful relationships within the fashion industry. The Retreat is a place where educators can share ideas, exchange best practices and develop partnerships that lead to real opportunities for students such as internships, mentorships and access to emerging fashion pipelines.” 

Some of the notable companies that participated in the Retreat include Nordstrom, Nike, Macy’s Inc., Tapestry and American Eagle Outfitters. 

“We’re already in the process of preparing for HBCU Professor Retreat 2026 – which we’re planning to hold during the Juneteenth week celebration next year,” said Joseph.

ICON 360 and Harlem Fashion Row provided stipends for Bowie State's professors to attend HBCU Professor Retreat 2025.