ASU FIDM thriving in 2025: Growth, innovation and opportunities

Photo of ASU FIDM student Jared Wall preparing patterns in class.

ASU FIDM fashion design major Jared Wall prepares patterns for his Design II class projects. Wall recently completed an internship with Roman Sipe, where he had the opportunity to design garments that were worn by Lenny Kravitz. Photo courtesy of ASU FIDM.

April 03, 2025

As ASU FIDM flourishes in both Los Angeles and Phoenix, here’s an overview of some of the achievements of its students, faculty and community, plus a look ahead to an exciting lineup of events and opportunities.

Student success: Rising stars in fashion

Photo of ASU FIDM Fashion Scholarship Fund winners. Photo by Camille Misty. — ASU FIDM Fashion Scholarship Fund winners include (l-r): Julie Anstadt-Hernandez, Kathryn Scherberies, Kyndahl Williams, Erin Hildick, Alexandra Lambrinos, Kaitlyn Tracy, Fiona Otto, Zoe Omtvedt, Bryce Propst and Brielle Cohen. Photo by Camille Misty.

This year, 10 ASU FIDM students were honored with prestigious Fashion Scholarship Fund awards, making ASU FIDM one of the top-performing schools in the nation. Their innovative work in design, marketing and merchandising showcases ASU FIDM as a hub for rising talent in the global fashion industry.

Faculty recognition: Global impact

A monster-like garment on a stage — Galina Mihaleva, associate professor at ASU FIDM, created the "Evolutionary Drone Hybrid" garment, shown here on stage, with her friend, Phoenix photographer Chris Loomis. She won the WOW Designer Development Award at the World of Wearableart competition in New Zealand recently. Photo courtesy of ASU FIDM.

ASU FIDM faculty continues to set the standard for excellence and creativity. Professor Galina Mihaleva received the WOW Designer Development Award at the World of WearableArt competition, recognizing her groundbreaking designs that promote sustainability and push the boundaries of innovation. Her leadership and mentorship continue to inspire and elevate ASU FIDM’s creative community.

Industry leaders on campus

This year, ASU FIDM welcomed an impressive lineup of guest speakers who brought valuable real-world insights to students. Industry legends such as Simon Ungless—former executive eirector of Fashion at the Academy of Art University and a key collaborator of Lee Alexander McQueen—along with acclaimed costume designers Paul Tazewell (“Hamilton,” “Wicked”) and B. Akerlund, engaged students in impactful workshops and discussions.

Additionally, this semester’s Professional Practices series featured Shobha Philips, co-founder of In Todo and Stephanie Ogé, founder of SOGÉ STUDIO, providing students with essential guidance on navigating the fashion and design industries.

ASU FIDM Museum: A cultural hub

“Fashion Statements” Contributor Johnny Valencia — "Fashion Statements" guest contributor Johnny Valencia was one of several leading experts in fashion, art and culture invited to select pieces from the ASU FIDM Museum's extensive collection for the exhibition and offer personal interpretations and perspectives on style and creativity. Photo by Monica Orozco.

The ASU FIDM Museum continues to serve as a cornerstone of cultural engagement, hosting the “Fashion Statements” exhibition and the Academy Awards Costume Design Speaker Series. Esteemed costume designers Arianne Phillips and Mark Bridges shared insights on how fashion enhances storytelling in film.

This spring, the museum launched its ASU FIDM Museum Fashion Salon Series in Los Angeles, offering a deep dive into the history of fashion through the museum’s extensive archives.

Exciting events on the horizon

A model walks down the runway at the 2024 ASU FIDM Uncertainty Fashion Show. — A model walks down the runway in a piece created by an ASU FIDM student at the 2024 Uncertainty Fashion Showcase. The 2025 show will take place April 12. Photo by Orlando Pelagio.

Mark your calendars for the upcoming Fashion Symposium on April 11 in Downtown Phoenix, featuring industry leaders Ruben Toledo, Jess Cuevas, Marrisa Wilson and Sharleen Earnster. The next day, the 8th Annual Uncertainty Fashion Show at Scottsdale Fashion Square will highlight the work of 29 graduating fashion design students, presenting more than 100 original looks. Both events are free and open to alumni and community members.

Additionally, the guest speaker lineup for the semester includes Byron and Cece Scott, Lisa R. Bannister, Akua Shabaka and Rebecca Henry (co-founders of House of Aama), Charlie Gay (founder of Le Jean) and Weleh Dennis (co-founder of Kids of Immigrants). Their mentorship plays a crucial role in supporting students' professional development and strengthening alumni connections.

Visit asufidm.asu.edu/events to see upcoming events.

Summer Fashion Camps: Inspiring the next generation

Two students work on the Tote Bag Project during the ASU FIDM Summer Camp — ASU FIDM will host summer camps in Phoenix and LA this June. Photo courtesy of ASU FIDM.

This summer, ASU FIDM will host Summer Fashion Camps in both Phoenix and Los Angeles, offering high school students hands-on experience with ASU FIDM’s expert faculty. New this year is the Sports x Fashion Marketing camp, inspired by the growing excitement for the LA Olympics 2028. These programs are designed to be accessible to all—no prior sewing or drawing experience is required.

Stay connected and get Involved

As students finalize their projects for the semester, follow @FIDM on Instagram to witness their creative journeys. For career opportunities, check out the school’s LinkedIn page, where Sarah Miller, ASU FIDM’s Career Center Manager, shares valuable job postings and industry connections.