Gap Inc. president and chief executive officer Richard Dickson will reveal the launch of The Doris Fisher Creators Program, a mentorship initiative developed in partnership with Gap Inc. and the Fashion Institute of Technology at Tuesday night’s FIT Annual Gala.
Named in honor of Gap Inc. cofounder Doris Fisher, the program reflects her legacy of creativity, curiosity and belief in people. It also builds on Gap’s commitment to helping bridge the opportunity gap by creating stronger connections between education and careers in the fashion industry.
Fisher cofounded Gap in 1969 with her husband Don and was the company’s merchandiser from the day it opened until 2003. She helped guide the company over decades and sat on Gap’s board until 2009.
Doris and Donald Fisher in 1969.
Courtesy Photo
“Gap Inc. is a house of iconic American brands guided by our purpose — to bridge gaps to create a better world. That includes bridging the opportunity gap. FIT embodies that same spirit, bringing education and industry together to unlock talent and expand what’s possible. We’re committed to opening doors, investing in emerging creatives and building meaningful pathways into this industry for the next generation,” Dickson said.
The Doris Fisher Creators Program will connect FIT students with Gap Inc. leaders and creatives through a structured mentorship experience designed to provide exposure to the fashion business, industry insights and professional connections.
The program will be rolled out in fall 2026 and run through the academic year, and the inaugural cohort will include students from select disciplines, including Fashion Design, Graphic Design (Apparel) and Fabric Styling.
“Supporting emerging talent is a core expression of Gap Inc.’s purpose in action. Through initiative such as The Doris Fisher Creators Program — alongside This Way Onward, the Rotational Management Program , and our broader internship and mentorship efforts — the company continues to bridge the opportunity gap for young people looking to start meaningful careers in fashion and retail,” said Amy Thompson, chief people officer of Gap Inc.
“We are incredibly proud to be the first public college to partner with Gap Inc. on this groundbreaking mentorship program. This remarkable opportunity with one of the world’s most iconic brands will support 30 talented FIT students over the next year, placing them at the intersection of innovation and impact,” said Jason S. Schupbach, president of FIT.
As reported, Dickson will be the guest of honor Tuesday at the annual gala that takes place at the historic Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. The evening will recognize Dickson’s career from revitalizing global icons at Mattel to ushering in a new era of American style at Gap Inc.
