Dr. Joyce F. Brown’s remarkable tenure as president of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York City has left an indelible mark on the world of fashion education. Stepping down in 2025 after nearly 26 years, she reflects on her transformative leadership and the lasting impact she’s had on the institution, its students, and the fashion industry.
A Visionary Leader for FIT’s Transformation
Dr. Brown’s leadership has been instrumental in reshaping FIT from a vocational school into a powerhouse in fashion, design, and technology education. She arrived at FIT in 1998 with a vision to elevate the institution’s potential and leverage its prime location in New York City—a global hub for advertising, marketing, fashion design, and more. “What I saw was a wonderful story that could be told,” she shared. Under her guidance, FIT became a vibrant educational center, celebrated not only for its technical prowess but also for its deep connection to industry trends.
Her commitment to integrating innovation and technology into the curriculum has positioned FIT as a leader in preparing students for the future. Dr. Brown’s leadership style emphasizes collaboration, and she made sure to involve faculty, students, and industry partners in shaping the school’s direction. This collective approach has led to the development of cutting-edge facilities like the DTech lab, ensuring FIT remains at the forefront of fashion education.
Honoring Excellence in Education and Industry
One of the most notable milestones in Dr. Brown’s career was her recent recognition by the Black Retail Action Group (BRAG) for her dedication to educating future leaders in the fashion industry. “BRAG is such a wonderful institution…the women are inspirational, so it was a privilege,” she remarked upon receiving the honor. This recognition not only highlights her individual accomplishments but also underscores the importance of fostering leadership among women, particularly Black women, in industries traditionally dominated by others.
Her leadership at FIT has not only resulted in institutional growth but also in tangible outcomes for students. FIT students regularly achieve success in national and international competitions, and the accomplishments of its alumni speak volumes about the school’s ability to cultivate top-tier talent.
A Legacy of Inclusivity and Strategic Leadership
Dr. Brown’s leadership is also defined by her commitment to inclusivity and transparency. She believes in creating an environment where all voices are heard and valued. “You can be the visionary, but what you really are as a facilitator and an enabler,” she said. This mindset has helped foster a sense of ownership and community within the institution, where both students and staff feel invested in its success.
Her approach to leadership was shaped by years of experience, including her tenure as Vice Chancellor at the City University of New York. Dr. Brown emphasizes the importance of listening to all members of the community—faculty, students, staff, and partners—to establish a shared vision. “It’s about using your early days to establish trust within the community,” she advises new leaders.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Black Female Leaders
As a Black woman in a position of power, Dr. Brown has always been aware of the unique perspective she brings to leadership. “We bring a different kind of sensitivity, awareness, and inclusiveness,” she explains. Her leadership reflects a commitment to uplifting those who have been overlooked, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is diverse and empowered.
For young women aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Dr. Brown offers simple but valuable advice: “You’ve got to know how it all fits together. And you can’t pretend that. You can’t pretend on any level about any of it.” Her journey demonstrates the importance of hard work, humility, and a willingness to grow.
