FIT to honor Richard Dickson, Gap Inc. President & CEO, at 2026 Annual Gala

The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) is set to honor Richard Dickson, president and chief executive officer of Gap Inc., at its Annual Gala on April 14, 2026.

Taking place at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, this year’s FIT Gala will celebrate Dickson’s career and his legacy of brand reinvigoration, from his time at Mattel as president and chief operating officer through to his role at Gap Inc, where he has been credited with “ushering in a new era of American style.”

Centering on the theme Threads of Impact, the annual gala affirms the shared vision of FIT and Gap Inc. while celebrating Dickson’s history of breathing new life into iconic brands. It reflects his career-long belief in creativity as a force that shapes culture and strengthens business performance.

“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,” said Richard Dickson, president and CEO, Gap Inc., in a statement. “I'm truly honored by this recognition and proud to champion the students and future leaders who will shape what's next in design and fashion.”

Dickson follows in the footsteps of former FIT President Joyce F. Brown, who was honored at last year’s gala for her remarkable 27-year legacy and achievements within the fashion industry. “We are thrilled to celebrate Richard Dickson at FIT's Annual Gala, in recognition of his remarkable achievements and leadership," said current FIT President Jason S. Schupbach, in a statement. 

“Richard's commitment to empowering the next generation reflects the heart of our mission—and inspires the entire FIT community. We are grateful for his generous support, as his work affirms what FIT has always shown: that when industry and education work as one, they are the catalyst for real-world change that shifts our culture.”

Appointed President and CEO of Gap Inc. in July 2023, Dickson manages the company’s portfolio of leading American brands, including Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta. Previously serving as President and COO of Mattel, he played a central role in the company’s global turnaround, revitalizing brands such as Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Fisher-Price, and served as executive producer of the Barbie film. He joined the Gap Inc. Board of Directors in 2022.

Under his leadership, Gap Inc. is advancing a vision of fashion that balances commercial success with meaningful social and environmental impact. Throughout his career, Dickson has consistently championed purpose-driven leadership, earning recognition for his commitment to corporate responsibility, including The Elizabeth Taylor Commitment to End AIDS Award and the Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose Force for Good Award.

The FIT Annual Gala brings together leaders and alumni from the fashion and creative sectors to support the FIT Foundation, which invests in the success of future FIT students. In 2025, the Foundation awarded more than 3 million dollars in scholarships while also funding key programs and new initiatives.