FIT has announced that Bob Fisch—philanthropist, retail entrepreneur, motivational author, and FIT Foundation Board member—has gifted $1.5 million to the college. This generous contribution will fund the naming of the brand-new Presentation Hall in FIT’s recently opened Joyce F. Brown Academic Building, a 10-story, 100,000-plus-square foot state-of-the-art facility designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation among students, faculty, and industry. The Bob Fisch Presentation Hall is one of first spaces in the building named for a donor.
“It is fitting that the Bob Fisch Presentation Hall, one of the first named spaces in our new building, bears the name of an individual who has demonstrated his personal commitment to the success of innovative and creative young entrepreneurs,” said Dr. Joyce F. Brown, president of FIT. “His generosity has not only enriched the lives and careers of our students but has expanded the impact and influence of our business programs on the retail industry. This dedication represents not only the spirit of philanthropy but also the enduring partnership between FIT and those who believe in the power of education to transform lives.”
“When considering how I could contribute to this remarkable new building, I immediately connected with the Presentation Hall as a place where students could build their confidence and prepare for their careers,” said Bob Fisch. “It is a privilege to help create that opportunity, and I’m excited to continue partnering with FIT to advance our shared goals. For me, giving back is about more than financial support—it’s about mentorship, collaboration, and helping students make the transition from their time at FIT to the next stages of their careers.”
A longtime champion of the college, Fisch has influenced hundreds of FIT students and alumni through countless hours dedicated to mentoring and providing one-on-one guidance and support. Further advancing his commitment to empowering the next generation of creative leaders through intergenerational mentoring, Fisch—former CEO and chairman of rue21—has, since 2021, presented annual financial awards, designated the Bob Fisch Awards for Entrepreneurial Excellence.
These awards recognize and support outstanding students in both the Fashion Design and Global Fashion Management masters’ programs. His fireside chats continue to inspire students, as does his signature phrase: “I teach them business. They teach me life.”
Designed by SHoP Architects and located on 28th Street between Seventh and Eighth avenues, the Bob Fisch Presentation Hall—featuring 146 seats and set to become a cornerstone of the dynamic new learning environment—will host presentations, lectures, and events, in addition to welcoming prospective students during sessions led by FIT Admissions. The hall is visible from the street and adjacent to a soaring, light-filled atrium, encouraging interaction between FIT and New York City.
Individuals and corporations interested in investing in the future of creative education can join Bob Fisch by naming one of the extraordinary new spaces within the Joyce F. Brown Academic Building, participating in Donor Wall recognition, or sponsoring paver inscriptions on The Walk at FIT. For more information, visit fitnyc.edu/InvestInTheFuture.
Funding for the Joyce F. Brown Academic Building has been provided by New York State and New York City, as well as a distinguished group of FIT friends and supporters.