ICON360 and Pensole Lewis College invite you to an exclusive two-day gathering designed to bridge the gap between academia and the fashion industry. Taking place June 17-18, 2025, in New York, NY, this retreat will foster solution-driven discussions between HBCU professors and industry leaders—all with the goal of advancing opportunities for HBCU students in fashion.
This retreat is designed for HBCU professors and administrators, including academic and career advisors, internship coordinators, department chairs, deans, and more. While we have a special focus on HBCUs with active fashion programs, faculty members from any HBCU are welcome to attend.
Huge thanks to our incredible partners—Nordstrom, Nike, Stanley 1913, Macy’s Inc, AEO, and Curated by Live Nation—for their support in making this retreat possible.
Secure your spot today! A non-refundable $35 registration fee is required to confirm participation. Don’t miss this opportunity to collaborate, learn, and help shape the future of HBCU fashion education.
Retreat Details
Day 1 | Tuesday, June 17, 2025
- Location: Live Nation, New York, NY
- Doors Open: 9:00 AM
- Program Begins: 10:00 AM
Day 2 | Wednesday, June 18, 2025 (Exclusive to HBCU Professors & Faculty)
- Industry Stop 1; 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
- Industry Stop 2; 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
- Industry Stop 3; 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM
Travel Assistance
Travel assistance, including stipends and hotel accommodations, is available for the first 40 eligible HBCU faculty members who register to attend the 2025 HBCU Professor Retreat. We will cover a two-night stay (excluding incidentals) at TownePlace Suites Manhattan/Chelsea. Additionally, travel stipends will be provided via electronic funds transfer in the following amounts: $200 for registrations completed by April 16, $150 for registrations completed by April 30, and $100 for registrations completed by May 14. Registration will close on Friday, May 30.
Eligibility
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Travel assistance will be prioritized for faculty members at HBCUs with an active fashion program.
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Faculty from HBCUs without an active fashion program are welcome to attend, but travel assistance is not guaranteed. If additional assistance becomes available, you will be notified by Thursday, May 15.
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All faculty members must be actively teaching or administering at their HBCU during the 2025–2026 academic year.
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Only faculty residing outside the tri-state area (New York, New Jersey, Connecticut) are eligible for travel assistance.
Hotel Information:
TownePlace Suites New York
Manhattan/Chelsea
140 W 28th St
New York, NY 10001
Check-In: Monday, June 16, 4 PM
Check-Out: Wednesday, June 18, 11 AM
Amenities
Single King Bedrooms
Free Buffet Breakfast
In-Room Microwave + Mini Fridge
Complimentary Wi-Fi
24/7 Fitness Center
Cancellations and No Shows
Please review our Cancellation and No-Show Policies for important information regarding refunds and attendance requirements.