The Fashion Institute of Technology will honor Richard Dickson, President and CEO of Gap Inc., at its 2026 Annual Gala on April 14, held at Cathedral of St. John the Divine. The evening will celebrate Dickson’s track record of revitalizing globally recognized brands and his ongoing commitment to fostering opportunities for the next generation of creative leaders.
Centered around this year’s theme, Threads of Impact, the gala underscores a shared mission to connect education and industry while championing creativity as both a cultural force and a business imperative. “FIT embodies that same spirit, bringing education and industry together to unlock talent and expand what’s possible,” Dickson said. “We’re committed to opening doors, investing in emerging creatives, and building meaningful pathways into this industry for the next generation.”
Prior to joining Gap Inc. in 2023, Dickson served as president and chief operating officer of Mattel, where he helped lead a major corporate transformation that reenergized heritage brands and reinforced their cultural relevance. Today, he continues that momentum by guiding Gap Inc.’s portfolio of iconic American labels with a focus on purpose-driven growth and meaningful impact.
Proceeds from the FIT Annual Gala support the FIT Foundation, which funds scholarships, academic programs, and initiatives designed to empower students and help shape the future of the fashion and creative industries.
