The NRF Foundation Student Ambassador program provides the opportunity for each NRF University Member to select one student to serve as their campus representative throughout a calendar year. NRF Foundation Student Ambassadors will serve as the liaison between the NRF Foundation and their school. This is an enormous leadership opportunity to grow the NRF Foundation community on each university campus.
NRF Student Ambassadors should be ambitious, resourceful, and highly motivated students capable of leading the NRF Student Association on campus.
Foster the development of a group of dedicated retail advocates across college campuses.
Build the presence of and participation in the NRF Student Association (NRFSA) on campus.
Connect the NRF Foundation and its retail partners with top talent.
Boost student participation in NRF Foundation programs, scholarships and events.
Throughout the year, Student Ambassadors:
Promote NRF Foundation scholarships, competitions, and events
Help connect students with career development opportunities
Support growth and engagement of the NRF Student Association (NRFSA)
Encourage student participation in NRF Foundation programs
Organize informational meetings, workshops, and campus outreach activities
Serve as advocates for careers in retail and related industries
Participate in community service and leadership initiatives
The program is designed to help ambassadors build leadership, communication, event planning, and professional networking skills while making an impact on their campus community.
Each NRF Foundation University Member school may nominate one student to serve as its Student Ambassador. Student Ambassadors are selected by their university's NRFSA faculty advisor and serve as representatives throughout the academic year.
The program provides students with the opportunity to:
Develop leadership and professional skills
Build relationships with fellow student leaders nationwide
Expand awareness of retail career opportunities on campus
Gain exposure to NRF Foundation programs and industry partners
Make a meaningful impact within their university community
Interested students should contact their university's NRFSA faculty advisor for more information about the nomination process and eligibility requirements.
The next Student Ambassador term will begin February 2027, and university nominations are expected to open in January 2027.
For questions, please contact your NRFSA advisor about opportunities to become your university's next Student Ambassador.
Student Ambassadors who successfully complete their program requirements will receive a travel stipend to attend NRF NXT, the NRF Foundation's annual retail student conference in New York City, as well as additional recognition and program awards. The program provides a unique opportunity to gain leadership experience while helping connect fellow students to careers and opportunities in the retail industry.
