NRF 2019: Student Program recap

More than 1,000 excited students attended the NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City, January 11-12. In two days packed with educational sessions, networking opportunities, store tours and many more events, students specializing in every aspect of retail — including merchandising, supply chain, information technology and fashion design — came together to learn about how retail is a great place to start and develop a rewarding career.

The program was off to an energetic start with welcome addresses by Former Chair of the NRF Foundation board Karen Katz and Ellen Davis, president of the NRF Foundation.

Students in tech heard from leading retailers about how IT helps retailers create seamless customer experiences:

And Intel encouraged STEM students to explore career opportunities in retail:

For a more hands-on experience, students had a chance to visit stores and see retail in action with curated store tours, including at The Home Depot:

Jo Malone, founder of Jo Loves, gave a rousing keynote to close out the program, encouraging every student to pursue their dreams, believe in themselves and never take no for an answer.

Jo Malone closing keynote at Student Program 2019

The NRF Foundation also welcomed Chairman and CEO of Macy’s Inc. Jeff Gennette as the new chairman of the Foundation board.

On Sunday night, Levi Strauss & Co. President and CEO Chip Bergh will be recognized with The Visionary award for his leadership and rebuilding the brand at the NRF Foundation Gala.

Don't miss a beat! Follow @NRFFoundation for more content after the curtain closes, including blog posts and video.