The Legacy Group of the International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA) is a distinguished body composed of ITAA Fellows and Past Presidents. This group honors the organization’s long-standing members, past leaders, and retirees who have made significant contributions to both ITAA and the broader textile and apparel discipline.

The Legacy Group plays a vital role in supporting the mission and continuity of ITAA through the following core functions:

• Preserving Institutional Memory: The group helps safeguard ITAA’s history and traditions, ensuring they are shared with and accessible to future generations of members.
• Mentorship and Advisory Support: Members offer insight and guidance to emerging scholars and professionals, serving as mentors and thought leaders in the field.
• Recognition and Celebration: The group provides a platform to recognize and celebrate the lifelong achievements of retired faculty, researchers, and professionals who have advanced ITAA’s mission.
• Community and Engagement: The Legacy Group fosters a strong sense of fellowship among long-time members who have contributed to ITAA’s growth and academic excellence.

In essence, the Legacy Group represents the heart and heritage of ITAA—celebrating those who have shaped the discipline while providing continuity and wisdom for the future.

New Initiative: Legacy Group Conference Support Initiative

The Legacy Group is pleased to announce a new initiative to provide financial support to undergraduate or graduate students and early-career professionals to help them attend the ITAA Annual Conference.

In its inaugural year, the Legacy Group will offer 50% off full conference registration, awarding up to $1,500 in total financial support. Applications will be reviewed by a panel of Legacy Group members.

Selection Criteria Will Include:

• Demonstrated financial need
• Anticipated benefits of attending the conference
• Priority given to applicants who have not previously received support from this fund

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicant must have an accepted presentation, poster, design, workshop, or other scholarly contribution at the current year’s conference
• Applicant must register for the full conference
• Preference will be given to:
• Undergraduate and graduate students nearing graduation
• Early career professionals who have not attended a previous ITAA conference
• Professional members whose presentation may not be delivered without the funding

This funding opportunity is made possible by proceeds from Legacy Group events and donations to the Legacy Fund.

To apply, please complete the application linked below by September 1, 2025.

Award decisions will be announced by September 15, 2025, allowing recipients to take advantage of Early-Bird Conference Registration rates.