Freshman Working on Future in Fashion and Retail Leadership
Gamble Named 2025-26 National Retail Federation Student Ambassador
Taylor Gamble, a freshman family and consumer sciences major with a concentration in apparel, merchandising, and design, has been selected as a 2025-2026 National Retail Federation (NRF) Student Ambassador. The Montgomery, Ala., native is among an elite group of only 70 students nationwide chosen for this prestigious role. As an ambassador, she will serve as a bridge between the NRF Foundation and Alabama A&M, fostering industry connections, advocating for retail education, and participating in professional development opportunities.
“I’m so honored and thankful to be selected,” Gamble shared. “I’m excited to grow as a leader, explore internship and scholarship opportunities, and inspire fellow students at A&M to do the same.”
The National Retail Federation offers educational resources, internships, and scholarship opportunities to empower students for successful careers in retail. Through partnerships with universities nationwide, the NRF Foundation supports the development of the next generation of retail professionals.
Through the ambassador program, Gamble will collaborate with retail leaders, engage with industry professionals, and attend the NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City January 8 – 11, 2026. Her role includes promoting NRF initiatives on campus, informing students about scholarship and internship opportunities, and encouraging participation in NRF-sponsored events.
Gamble was nominated for the ambassador role by Dr. Kristian Hogans, her professor and program director. As an NRF Student Ambassador, Gamble will spearhead efforts to increase awareness of NRF Foundation opportunities, including scholarships and career development resources. She plans to host an in-person informational session to introduce students to the NRF Foundation and encourage them to apply for the NRF Next Generation Scholarship, which offers a $25,000 award.
“I am very honored to represent my HBCU in this capacity,” she said.
Gamble plans a career in the fashion industry, and hopes to begin as a personal stylist and progress to roles in high-end fashion, runway production, and creative direction. “I love the behind-the-scenes work of fashion design, and I see myself becoming a successful designer and/or creative director, either for my own brand or a luxury fashion house,” she shared.
Beyond career aspirations, Gamble hopes her ambassadorship will help her grow as a leader and mentor. “In the past, I shied away from leadership roles, but I’ve realized that leadership is part of who I am. Instead of running from my calling, I want to embrace it and become the best leader I can be. I hope to leave a legacy at Alabama A&M and inspire future leaders to follow.”