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The Columbus Fashion Council (CFC) Board President, Lubna Najjar, along with the Founder and former Executive Director of the CFC, Thomas McClure, announced today that Keira Chatman has been named the organization’s new Executive Director, following an extensive nationwide search. Chatman is the first person to hold this position since McClure’s planned resignation earlier this year to pursue other endeavors.
“It gives me great pleasure to make this historic announcement,” said McClure. “I can’t think of anyone better to take over the leadership of this organization that I started 14 years ago. Keira brings an impressive background in minority business and entrepreneurship which are both critical to continuing the organization’s mission of being a business resource for independent labels and aspiring fashion design talent in Central Ohio.”
As Executive Director, Chatman will report directly to the Board of Directors and guide the organization toward achieving its mission, vision, and guiding principles. She will be responsible for leadership and management of CFC programs such as Fashion Week Columbus, The Fashion Industry Conference, and more. Other responsibilities include acting as the spokesperson for the organization, personnel management, fundraising, and managing the financial health of the organization.
“During our search, we evaluated many outstanding candidates,” said Najjar. “With her history in nonprofit management, fundraising, community development, retail brand management, and degree in fashion merchandising and management, Keira stood out as clearly the best and is exactly what we need right now. I am confident that we have chosen the best candidate to lead the CFC at this moment in time.”
Chatman will work with all CFC stakeholders including members, sponsors, donors, community and media partners, the Board of Directors, volunteers, staff, and more.
“I am deeply honored and excited to lead the CFC,” said Chatman. “Our organization has focused on developing the fashion community and economy in Central Ohio for well over a decade, and I’m thrilled to continue this important work.”
Prior to her role as the Executive Director of the CFC, Chatman’s career included leadership roles at the African American Male Wellness Agency, Black Ohio Film Group, Coldwell Banker, Zulily, and Levi’s. Chatman also currently serves as the President of Columbus Urban League Young Professionals, President of her neighborhood block watch, and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
Read more about Chatman and the CFC at https://www.columbusfashioncouncil.org.
About Columbus Fashion Council
As a non-profit 501(c)(3) status organization, the Columbus Fashion Council’s mission is to provide scholarships to fashion design students and a platform for local fashion designers. Our vision is to expand the fashion economy in Central Ohio through a combination of industry growth initiatives, community organizations support, funding access opportunities, and creative program development. We strive to nurture and develop the fashion community to keep our fashion talent living and working in Central Ohio. Signature events include Fashion Week Columbus, The Fashion Industry Conference, Columbus Fashion Awards, a variety of live and virtual fashion industry mixers, fashion presentations, and more. The Columbus Fashion Council is proud to be a founding member of the CFDA Connects Program, along with ten other influential fashion organizations from around the country.
