The LIM Fashion Education Foundation is a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, separate from LIM College. Approximately 95% of donations go towards scholarships, educational enhancements, and foundation-related activities that benefit deserving LIM College students.
Mission, Vision and History
Founded in 1977, our mission is to help students who have chosen to attend LIM College by raising and administering funds for scholarships and educational enhancements that benefit LIM College students.
Our vision is to support LIM College students so they can become strong leaders, global thinkers, and impactful entrepreneurs in the business of fashion. We aim to ensure that no student misses out on their college education due to a financial shortfall.
About LIM College Students
As of Fall 2023, LIM College students come from 48 U.S. states and 33 different countries. Approximately 50% identify as people of color; 88% identify as female; more than half of our students are the first in their family to graduate college while more than 80% qualify for financial aid.
Learn more about the diversity of the LIM College student body.
Board of Directors
The LIM Fashion Education Foundation is governed by a dedicated and committed Board of Directors and a Director of Development.
Arnie Cohen has spent 40+ years in the retail and direct-to-consumer industry, holding a variety of senior executive positions incubating, leading, recalibrating, and fixing brands and distribution/commerce platforms both domestically and abroad. He has also been instrumental in developing and executing funding strategies for growth.
A serial entrepreneur, Cohen currently works with, advises, or is a partner in several brand/retail-related businesses, including JP Outfitters (owner of the J Peterman Company and Territory Ahead catalogs), Psycho Bunny, Hudson Wellness LLC, Ippolita, Grove Trotters LLC and Balmoral Defender.
Other previous associations include Andrea Jovine Designs, Tabitha Simmons, Raw Essentials by Carol Alt, Personic Labs, DSW, American Signature Furniture, Taryn Rose, Camuto Group, The Schottenstein Luxury Group, Handbags by Gwen, Cosmedicine, Georgette Klinger, and Advanced Beauty Tools. Cohen was also a cofounder of Vitals.com, a database of 650,000+ physicians that helps consumers make educated decisions when selecting a doctor and Sapphire Digital.
Early in his career Cohen held a variety of management positions with Bloomingdale’s in New York. In 1985, he joined Gucci USA as Chief Merchandising Officer. During his tenure, the U.S. operation grew four-fold, as he repositioned and rebuilt wholesale distribution and led the merchandising strategy for the Gucci brand worldwide.
As Chief Operating Officer of J. Crew Group Inc from 1988-1993, Cohen was instrumental in developing the J. Crew Retail division, allowing J. Crew to position itself as one of the pioneering premium lifestyle multi-channel, direct-to-consumer brands.
Cohen worked with American Eagle Outfitters from 2004-2012 on a variety of projects, including the initial effort to create a new apparel retail concept. The successful completion of the project laid the foundation for Martin + Osa, for which he served as Chief Marketing Officer. He also developed and led American Eagle’s “Back on Campus” initiative and negotiated their Big East sponsorship partnership.
Jay Angeletti serves as Vice President of the LIM Board of Directors. He is the proud parent of LIM College Alumna, Virginia who serves as Associate Merchandiser for Kate Spade mainline jewelry.
Jay brings over 40 years of exertise in fund development and nonprofit leadership. He founded The Angeletti Group, (TAG) in 2006; the firm partners with clients in education, healthcare, and community initiatives. Before TAG, Jay held senior roles at Choate Rosemary Hall, Yale University School of Medicine, the University of Pennsylvania Health System, Drew University, and New York-Presbyterian Hospital.
Jay's leadership at New York-Presbyterian included the first-ever $1 billion hospital fundraising campaign, during which annual philanthropic revenue surged from $75 million to over $200 million. At Drew, Jay collaborated with former New Jersey Governor Tom Kean to lead the university's first $85 million comprehensive campaign. And, at Yale, Jay served in a leadership capacity in launching a $285 million initiative, the largest component of Yale's $1.5 billion campaign.
Jay’s extensive client list includes many of the nation’s leading independent schools, universities, medical institutions, and nonprofits. He is a sought-after speaker often presents for national nonprofit professional organizations.
Michael (Mike) Donohue is the Executive Vice President, Finance and Operations, Treasurer at LIM College and has been Treasurer of the LIM FEF for over 20 years.
Throughout his tenure at LIM College, Mike has played a key role in the institution’s strategic growth, helping to ensure the optimal faculty, staff, and facilities are in place to support student success. He strongly believes in the LIM FEF mission to support the next generation of fashion industry professionals via scholarships and other educational opportunities.
With decades of progressively responsible experience in higher education administration, Mike is especially skilled at streamlining processes and procedures. Previous positions he has held include Assistant Controller at the American University of Beirut, Budget Analyst for the United States Military Academy at West Point, and Budget Assistant for the Army Athletic Association.
Mike has extensive knowledge in the areas of accounting, student accounts, financial aid, human resources, information technology, and facilities management. In addition to his service on the LIM FEF Board he maintains active memberships in several professional organizations, including the National Association of College and University Business Officers, the Eastern Association of College and University Business Officers, the Society for College and University Planning, Educause, and APPA.
Gail was a member of the LIM College Class of 1971. After earning her degree, Gail had a long and successful career in the fashion industry including serving as a corporate buyer for May Department Stores, and as Vice President of Development and Production for Energie Sportswear.
In 2005, Gail transitioned her career to higher education when she returned to LIM College as a member of the Institutional Advancement team. Ultimately, she was promoted to Senior Vice President of External Relations and Alumni Affairs, a position she retired from at the end of 2022.
Following her career on the LIM leadership team, Gail shifted to board service and became the first college employee to be elected to the LIM College Board of Directors.
Gail currently serves as Secretary of the Board of Directors of the LIM Fashion Education Foundation and enjoys the opportunity this role provides to raise awareness of LIM FEF, helping students realize their academic and professional goals through scholarship and mentorship.
Invited by a friend to join the LIM FEF Board, Elyce accepted the opportunity after seeing the exceptional talent of a Frances Valentine employee who graduated from LIM College. Serving as a Board Member allows Elyce to mentor and give back to young people, a cause she holds in high regard.
With over 30 years in the industry, Harry has focused on sharing his expertise with students. His involvement with LIM began on the Advisory Board, leading to his role on the FEF Board of Directors.
Coming from a family of educators, Harry is passionate about supporting students and staying connected with the next generation of retailers. He finds inspiration in witnessing their growth and celebrating their successes.
Before joining Alo, Harry held leadership roles at Saks Fifth Avenue, Vera Bradley, and Liz Claiborne, Inc. He is a recipient of the Andrew Markopolous Award for excellence in store design and a member of the Markopoulos Circle, alongside renowned industry leaders.
Karis' connection to LIM FEF began with meaningful conversations about her passion for education and the fashion industry. With years of experience in fashion, she immediately recognized LIM College's unique and vital role in fashion education, benefiting the entire industry.
Inspired to join the Board, Karis is committed to ensuring that all students, regardless of financial background, have the opportunity to pursue their dreams in this dynamic field. The mission of LIM FEF aligns with her dedication to equal opportunity in education, and she is proud to help create pathways for talented students in need of support. For Karis, meeting students and hearing their stories has been the most impactful aspect of her Board Member experience. She is inspired by their passion, drive, and appreciation for the scholarships that enable them to achieve their goals. Their journeys underscore the importance of LIM FEF's mission to provide financial support and empower the next generation of fashion leaders, motivating her to advocate for expanded scholarship opportunities and ensure the foundation continues making a meaningful difference. Karis previously served as CEO of the Americas for Scotch & Soda.
Patty, a proud LIM College alumna with three degrees, has built a successful career as a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and businesswoman. Her education provided a strong foundation in the fashion and business worlds, helping her become a respected leader and innovator.
As a Board Member of the LIM Fashion Education Foundation, Patty is committed to advancing fashion education and supporting students. Passionate about giving back, she mentors and engages with students to ensure they have the guidance and resources needed to succeed.
Patty takes pride in seeing LIM students achieve their dreams and launch impactful careers, reflecting her dedication to inspiring future generations within the LIM community.
Jen is a parent of an alumna and works in the fashion industry. She volunteers as a LIM FEF Board Member because she believe in what LIM College stands for. Its values and support systems align with with hers and she feels lucky to be part of its community. Jen says, "I have learned the importance of giving back in support of LIM academics, scholarships and the talent and drive of its students. What I most appreciate about my role as a volunteer Board Member are its people, their dedication and their commitment to reducing barriers to an LIM College education for talented and committed students."
Dave is the founder and CEO of Bombas, the comfort-focused premium basics brand with a mission to help those in need. Bombas makes the most comfortable socks, slippers, underwear, and tees and for every item sold, they donate an item to someone facing homelessness. To date, Bombas has donated over 140mm items. Dave says being a Board member is important because, "through achieving success, it's important to give back and help inspire the next generation of fashion leaders. I am most inspired by the students, their dedication and hard work."
Jill's passion for fostering growth inspired her to join the LIM FEF Board, where she supports the mission of empowering future fashion leaders. With experience in key roles at J. Crew and Banana Republic, she has focused on customer experience, talent development, operations, and store design.
As a board member, Jill values the transformative power of education and mentorship. Having benefited from mentorship herself, she is committed to giving back and helping others succeed. Her involvement with LIM FEF highlights the profound impact of the foundation’s programs, which equip dedicated students with the skills to thrive in the fashion industry. This inspires her continued dedication to the foundation’s mission.
Liz Marcuse, President Emeritus of LIM College, served as President from 2002 to 2023, continuing her family's legacy of leadership. Under her tenure, LIM became a master’s degree-granting institution, expanded its programs, and diversified its student body.
Before her career in education, Liz spent 20 years in the fashion industry, holding roles at Macy’s, Montgomery Ward, The Limited Inc., and Donna Karan. Her dedication to student success is reflected in her service on the LIM FEF Board and numerous honors, including an Honorary Doctorate from LIM and the BRAG Fashion Leadership Award.
Liz is also Vice Chair of the Association of Private Colleges, serves on the Advisory Board of Fashion Group International, and is a member of the Women’s Forum of New York.
Rosie joined the LIM FEF Board in 2022 when LIM College launched its Business of Cannabis program. With over 10 years in the cannabis industry, she was eager to support LIM College’s mission to educate students for this emerging field.
Being a board member is important to Rosie because of the board's commitment to providing top-tier education, regardless of financial background. She believes no student should be denied a LIM education due to financial hardship, and the board works hard to raise awareness and funds for scholarships.
Rosie is especially impressed by the passion and dedication of the board members, who, despite their busy schedules, give their time and effort to support the organization.
Jim is honored to be part of the LIM Board of Directors, finding great inspiration in working with the high-caliber group of board members and interacting with LIM College students. These experiences made it clear to him that he wanted to get involved and contribute.
For Jim, working with the Board to inspire students through collective knowledge is incredibly rewarding. Mentoring is his greatest joy, and he feels his expertise in menswear culture allows him to make a meaningful impact on both the students and the Board.
Jim's career journey spans several decades in the magazine industry. Currently serving as GQ Menswear Creative Director At Large, his role includes creative direction, styling, brand building, editorial marketing, and shaping the architecture of menswear. Over his 40 years at GQ, he directed and styled over 500 covers and thousands of fashion editorials, coining the phrase "Looking Very GQ." With his deep understanding of buying habits, Jim transitioned to his own menswear consulting business, working with major brands such as Todd Snyder, Hugo Boss, Kith, Uniqlo, Corneliani, Michael Kors, and Canali. He is also the personal stylist for Roger Federer.
Michele learned about LIM College through current board members and former colleagues and discovered that several LIM graduates were on her team, all of whom were top-tier talent. Inspired by the way students are prepared for the business of fashion, Michele was excited to support the college.
Being a Board Member is important to Michele because students represent the future of the industry. Their passion and drive inspire her, and she is committed to supporting their growth and development in any way possible.
Chrystie joined the Board of Directors in 2023. She is inspired by LIM College students and their commitment to their passion and future role in the business of fashion.
Chrystie is Associate General Counsel at Legg-Mason.
Todd was introduced to LIM FEF by friends and fellow board members. He joined to share his passion for developing future fashion professionals and promoting education in a diverse, inclusive industry. He is proud to support emerging leaders and values the mentors who helped him, believing it's crucial to equip students with the skills needed for success.
As a board member, Todd has worked with LIM College interns and is impressed by their work ethic, creativity, and drive. He values the college's focus on practical, hands-on experience, which empowers students to thrive in the evolving fashion industry.
Todd Snyder has grown his namesake brand into a $125 million luxury label with 19 stores. With collections inspired by Savile Row tailoring, vintage military, and American workwear, he has redefined modern menswear. A former designer at Ralph Lauren, The Gap, and J.Crew, Todd launched his own brand in 2011 and has been a seven-time CFDA Menswear Designer of the Year nominee.
Steve was recruited to the LIM FEF Board of Directors by a good friend and colleague. Recognizing the board's valuable mission and the commitment of its members to nurturing future talent in the fashion industry, he was excited to get involved. He has been impressed by the dedication of the board members and their willingness to share their knowledge with LIM College students.
Being a board member is meaningful to Steve because, when starting his own company, he received help from countless individuals along the way. He is passionate about helping young people take risks and follow their dreams, just as others supported him. Steve says, "It’s inspiring to see the success LIM College students achieve and even more rewarding when they benefit from scholarship opportunities provided by LIM FEF."
Early in his career, while pursuing his passion for music, Steve lived in an old Ranger Station and sought new ways to connect with people. He always believed that fragrance could bring people together, which led him to create his own candle in his kitchen. Today, through Ranger Station (www.rangerstation.co), he continues to use fragrance as a tool to bring individuals together in a unique way.
Carolyn Sharaway, M.S., CFRE, joined LIM FEF in 2022 as the Director of Development. She is the sole staff person at the Foundation and leads its strategic fundraising efforts with the support of the Board of Directors and volunteers. With nearly 20 years of experience, Carolyn has been instrumental in increasing the Foundation’s fundraising income over the last two years enabling the Foundation to double scholarship awards for 2025. Carolyn truly enjoys supporting LIM College students- they truly are talented and inspiring.