Posted on March 15th 2026
Fashion doesn’t thrive on creativity alone—it’s powered by a network of thinkers, strategists, and innovators working behind the scenes to turn vision into value. Villanova’s Business of Fashion Society is excited to present their annual March Symposium —BEHIND THE SEAMS: THE BUSINESS THAT BUILDS FASHION. This symposium invites students to step beyond the runway and explore the complex ecosystem that makes retail success possible. From buying and planning to marketing, finance, supply chain, and many more, this event shines a spotlight on the diverse career paths that bring a fashion brand to life.
What to expect:
- Keynote Remarks: Morgan Hagney CLAS ’07 – Division Sustainability & Lead-Consumer Products, L’Oreal
- Round-robin Discussions: Series of round-table discussions between industry professionals & students. Each “round” will be prompted by a discussion question focused on a specific topic.
- Open Networking Session: A casual opportunity for industry leaders and students to connect.
- Raffle & Prizes: Enter to win items provided by participating industry professionals!
Participating professionals:
- Jennie D’Amico CLAS ’94 – Global Customer Director-Lifestyle Sector, DHL
- Becca Smouni VSB ‘20/MBA ’26 – Senior Analyst-Digital Marketing & Analytics, Free People
- Bianca Shames VSB ’14– Merchandising, GAP
- Tiffany Daggett CLAS ’13– VP, Beauty, Fashion, Lifestyle, Hunter PR
- Keeley Scott VSB ’21 – Ecommerce Assistant Manager, Laneige
- Morgan Hagney CLAS ’07 – L’Oreal
- Tiffani McDonough Solomon CLAS ’03 – Sr. Director-Litigation & Employment, Louis Vuitton
- Marlyn Schiff – Founder, Marlyn Schiff Jewelry
- Lauren Lawson CLAS ’25 – Founder, Last Minute California (streetwear)
- Maria Shallow VSB ’10 – Manager of Financial Analysis, Lilly Pulitzer
- Emily Dear VSB ’10 – Sr. Director-Global Marketing, Oribe Hair Care
- Sidney Howell VSB ’25 – Assistant Buyer, Rag & Bone
- Olivia Ashley CLAS ’19 – Associate Buyer-Men’s Seasonal, Ross
- Elissa Lawson VSB ’12 – Unilever , Sr Customer Business Manager for beauty & haircare.
- Blair Fikse CLAS ’03 – Retail Planner, Urban Outfitters
- Marci Neumeister – VP of Sales/Eastern Division, Varsity Spirit
Requested Attire: Business Casual. All interested VU students are encouraged to attend! *Light refreshments served.
Learn more about the Business of Fashion Society through LinkedIn and on Insta @bofvillanova.
