The LIM Fashion Education Foundation, or LIM FEF, is honoring two fashion industry leaders — Amanda Smith, chief executive officer of Fairchild Media Group, and Sam Edelman, founder and creative director of his eponymous brand. Both are receiving LIM FEF Fashion Forward Awards.
The executives will be recognized during a special cocktail event and silent auction to be held on April 29 at 6:30 p.m. at Todd Snyder, Rockefeller Center. “Smith and Edelman are being recognized for their commitment to mentoring and empowering students at LIM College who represent the next generation of leaders in the business of fashion and lifestyle,” the foundation said in a statement.
“It is with great excitement and gratitude that we honor Amanda and Sam with this year’s Fashion Forward Awards,” said Arnold Cohen, president of the LIM FEF board of directors. “Both are not only incredibly accomplished in the fashion and media industries, but they are also deeply committed to empowering students and LIM FEF’s mission of awarding scholarships and supporting educational initiatives that benefit LIM College students in need.”
Cohen said the foundation’s ultimate goal “is that these scholarship recipients will emerge as powerful leaders, global visionaries and successful entrepreneurs in the fashion business.”
Smith oversees FMG’s global strategic vision across Women’s Wear Daily, News, Beauty Inc and Sourcing Journal. “With over two decades of experience in luxury, retail, fashion and beauty, she is known for driving operational transformation and audience growth,” the foundation stated. “Smith has successfully launched new products, integrated brands within the FMG portfolio, and is committed to advancing women in the fashion and beauty industries.”
Most recently, Smith has provided considerable support for LIM students via her involvement in the school’s annual fashion show. She also has hosted students for on-site visits at FMG’s offices.
The foundation noted that Edelman — who was honored with FN’s 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award alongside wife Libby — “has had a profound impact on contemporary footwear, launching divisions for Esprit and Ralph Lauren, and cofounding Kenneth Cole. His brands — Sam & Libby, Sam Edelman and Circus NY — reflect his vision for modern American elegance with creativity and innovation.”
LIM FEF said Edelman is committed to shaping future talent through his internship program and LIM Master Classes. He was also the Commencement speaker for LIM’s Class of 2024, where he received an honorary doctorate.
To purchase tickets or sponsor the April 29 event, visit the foundation’s website at limfef.org and click on the banner at the top of the homepage. In addition to ticket sales and auction items, funds will be raised for scholarships. A portion of sales at Todd Snyder that evening are being donated to LIM FEF.
