Our Alumni
the Illustrious Alumni of Fashion and Apparel Studies
The Department of Fashion and Apparel Studies at the University of Delaware has produced a remarkable array of alumni who have left an indelible mark on the fashion industry. From renowned designers to influential entrepreneurs, these trailblazers have showcased their creativity, innovation, and passion for fashion on a global scale. Their accomplishments serve as a testament to the exceptional education and training provided by this esteemed program, which has consistently nurtured and empowered aspiring fashion professionals to reach new heights of success.
Samantha Ellers
Degree: 2022, Bachelor of Science in Fashion Merchandising and Management
Job Title: Product Integrity Testing and Compliance Assistant, Lilly Pulitzer
Samantha Ellers graduated from the University of Delaware in spring of 2022 with a B.S. in Fashion Merchandising. Additionally, Samantha received a A.A.S. in Textile Development and Marketing from the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in Spring of 2021.
Samantha's decision to further pursue textile development at FIT was influenced by her interest in sustainable applications as well as her interest in increasing transparency and traceability in the fashion industry. During her time at FIT, Samantha had the pleasure of working remotely as a textile production intern with ATI Textile in New York City. Soon after graduating from FIT and completing her internship, she began her next internship with Crystal International Group Limited. Based in Hong Kong, Samantha worked remotely as a corporate quality and sustainability Intern.
Since graduation, Samantha has accepted the product integrity testing and compliance assistant position with Lilly Pulitzer. Located in King of Prussia, PA, Samantha admires the company's ability to produce consistent, iconic, generational and trans seasonal colors. Overall, she is excited to bring her passionate, innovative, and enthusiastic spirit to her new position.
Julia Frense Maria
Degree: 2015, Fashion Merchandising
Job Title: Global Indirect Procurement Project Lead, DuPont
Julia Frense Maria is a highly motivated procurement professional with over 10 years of experience dedicated to driving growth and maximizing profitability for top-tier companies. Julia graduated from UD in 2015 with a BS in Fashion Merchandising. Her career has spanned notable organizations including Ralph Lauren, Anthropologie, Lands’ End, Office Depot, WEConnect International, and currently, DuPont.
As the Global Indirect Procurement Project Lead at DuPont, she excel's in providing comprehensive procurement project management across all indirect categories (~$2.4B in spend). Her areas of expertise include category development, spend analysis, value creation, RFx processes, supplier relationship management and negotiation strategy planning. She enjoys initiating project exploration in collaboration with category buyers and global procurement leadership to deliver impactful results.
Outside of her professional endeavors, she is passionate about giving back to her community. She volunteers with Philadelphia’s ‘Girls on the Run,’ a physical activity-based positive youth-development program that enhances girls’ social, emotional and physical skills and behaviors. As a member of the associate board and chair of the small events committee for this nonprofit, she actively supports all initiatives that empower girls and women.
Having grown up on three different continents—Europe, Asia, and North America- she possesses a profound appreciation for diverse cultures and communities. Fluent in German and holding dual US-EU citizenship, she brings a global perspective to her work and interactions.
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UD alum names Delaware History Teacher of the Year
September 13, 2024 | Written by Red Clay School DistrictThe Gilder Lehrman Institute has named Anthony Swierzbinski of The John Dickinson School as the 2024 Delaware History Teacher of the Year. -
Character in executive leadership
September 03, 2024 | Written by Hilary DouwesFormer NJ governor Chris Christie to deliver Soles Lecture on citizenship Sept. 19 -
For the Record, Friday, Aug. 30, 2024
August 30, 2024 | Written by UDaily staffUniversity of Delaware community reports new publications, presentations, honors, service