FSF's goal is to advance the fashion industry by encouraging gifted and enterprising young people to pursue careers in design, merchandising, retailing and business so the industry will continue to attract dedicated, capable and creative individuals.

FSF regards its scholarship grants as a very worthwhile investment in the future of the fashion industry and, since its inception, has awarded over $8 million in scholarships to more than 900 students nationwide.

The Geoffrey Beene Estate has contributed a record $1 million endowment as well as a $2 million donation to underwrite scholarships and enable naming rights of our annual dinner. Now, in addition to the approximately 100 $5,000 scholarships FSF awards annually, an additional 4 outstanding Geoffrey Beene Scholars will receive $30,000 scholarships to pursue their education and career goals, while 4 Finalists will receive $10,000.

As further support to its scholars, FSF facilitates internships with prestigious fashion companies and provides career mentoring by prominent senior executives who serve on the FSF Board. Participating companies have included Calvin Klein, Li & Fung, VF Sportswear, Fishman & Tobin, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, Nordstrom, Macy's, Perry Ellis, Bloomingdales, Levi Strauss & Co., Target, Kenneth Cole, Lacoste and Tommy Hilfiger to name just a few.

In addition to generous contributions from benefactors and sponsors, 100% of net proceeds from the annual YMA FSF Geoffrey Beene National Scholarship Awards Dinner goes directly to FSF programs. This is thanks to the generosity of the board of governors, who volunteer their time to ensure that all funds raised go where they are needed most: to the students.

The YMA Fashion Scholarship Fund is proud of its work and is wholly committed to its mission of recruiting, nurturing and cultivating the best students so that they become the next generation of leaders in the fashion industry.