This year's gala theme, Threads of Impact, underscores the shared vision of FIT and Gap Inc. and recognizes Dickson's legacy of brand revitalization, highlighting his career-long dedication to treating creativity as a cultural force and a business imperative.
The Fashion Institute of Technology will honor Richard Dickson, Chairman and CEO of Gap Inc., at its Annual Gala on April 14, 2026 at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. To celebrate his leadership in brand transformation at Gap Inc. and Mattel, the event supports the FIT Foundation, which has awarded more than $3 million in scholarships in 2025.
“Gap Inc. is a house of iconic American brands guided by our purpose: closing gaps to create a better world. That includes closing the opportunity gap. FIT embodies that same spirit, bringing education and industry together to unlock talent and expand what is possible. We are committed to opening doors, investing in emerging creatives and building meaningful pathways in this industry for the next generation,” he said Richard Dickson, president and CEO of Gap Inc.. “I am truly honored by this recognition and proud to champion the students and future leaders who will shape the future in design and fashion.”
“We are delighted to celebrate Richard Dickson at the FIT Annual Gala, in recognition of his notable achievements and leadership,” said Jason S. Schupbach, President of the FIT. “Richard's commitment to empowering the next generation reflects the heart of our mission and inspires the entire FIT community. We are grateful for his generous support, as his work affirms what FIT has always proven: that when industry and education work as one, they are the catalyst for real-world change that transforms our culture.”
Dickson was named president and CEO of Gap Inc. in July 2023 and leads the company's portfolio of iconic American brands, including Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic and Athleta. Prior to assuming this role, he was President and COO of Mattel, where he was the lead architect of a global corporate transformation that revitalized Mattel's historic brands, including Barbie, Hot Wheels and Fisher-Price, reinforcing Mattel as a key industry leader and cultural cornerstone. He also served as executive producer of the film Barbie. While at Mattel, Dickson was appointed to the board of directors of Gap Inc. in November 2022.
Under his leadership, Gap Inc. is progressing to become one of the most famous companies in fashion, where purpose and profit are aligned with importance, creating positive impacts for people and the planet. Throughout his career, Dickson has been a committed champion of this belief, earning recognitions including the Elizabeth Taylor Commitment to End AIDS Award and the Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose Force for Good Award.
The Annual FIT Gala, attended by distinguished guests and alumni from the fashion and creative industries, benefits the FIT Foundation, which is dedicated to elevating the next generation of FIT students. In addition to facilitating programs and developing new initiatives, the Foundation has awarded scholarships totaling more than $3 million in 2025.
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Fiber2Fashion News Desk (RM)
