Ryerson announced today the launch of a new five-year fellowship program, The Suzanne Rogers Fashion Institute (SRFI).
Through The Edward and Suzanne Rogers Foundation, benefactor Suzanne Rogers donated $1 million to the university’s Faculty of Communication and Design (FCAD).
The SRFI’s aim is to strengthen and support young emerging talent in the Canadian fashion industry.
“We are thrilled that Suzanne Rogers chose Ryerson to launch this unique opportunity for fashion design students in Canada to not only support their education while at school, but also beyond to prepare for successful careers” said Robert Ott, chair of the school of fashion and associate professor, in an email.
The fellowship will be open to third- and fourth-year undergraduate students, in addition to recent graduate alumni, who will go through a competitive application to earn a spot in the program.
According to Ott, six fellows will be admitted into the program each year.
“The calibre of student talent at Ryerson University is incredible, and this institute works to develop, support and nurture their skills in an exclusive and innovative way and showcase them nationally and internationally,” said benefactor Suzanne Rogers in a press release.
The fellowship aims to help elite student’s transition from student working in the classroom to working in the real world fashion industry.
It will offer funding support master classes, and mentorship opportunities.
“The Suzanne Rogers Fashion Institute is helping to elevate student potential for creative innovation, empowering the next generation of designers to pursue and achieve their boldest ambitions, said Charles Falzon dean of FCAD in the press release.
The Rogers family has donated more than $34 million to Ryerson University.
Information about the application process will be released next February.
The Suzanne Rogers Fashion Institute officially launches today! Follow @SRFI_RU for news and updates about the institute. https://t.co/Oli9CbX90g
— Ryerson Fashion (@RyersonFashion) October 11, 2016
Olivia Chandler is a Master of Journalism candidate at Ryerson. She is a news reporter at the Ryersonian and works as an Editorial Assistant for CBC News Network. Her interests include politics, fashion and the environment.