Madison Fortner ’20

Class of 2020, BA in Business with a concentration in Fashion Marketing and BS in International Business

The faculty at this school saw potential in me that I did not see in myself and I am forever grateful to have had such kind, intelligent, and supportive mentors.

About

“At MMC, I was lucky enough to find what I’m truly passion about and was given the necessary tools to turn these passions into a career,” says Madison Fortner ’20, who earned both a BA in Business with a concentration in Fashion Marketing, and a BS in International Business after four years at Marymount Manhattan College. “I made the decision to double-major based on my love of fashion and beauty, coupled with my appreciation for cultural diversity.

“The Business division at Marymount Manhattan College did more than just educate me and prepare me for post-graduation. They encouraged me to push myself to see my full potential and follow my dreams, such as applying to prestigious graduate schools in London when it seemed like a long shot to me. The faculty at this school saw potential in me that I did not see in myself and I am forever grateful to have had such kind, intelligent, and supportive mentors. I am particularly indebted to my advisor and professor Dr. Martínez-Novoa. If you are passionate about fashion or marketing, and want to be challenged in your education, she is your woman! I would not have made these achievements without her.”

During her college career, Fortner completed a PR and marketing internship in the fragrance department at Clarins Groupe, a French luxury cosmetic company. The experience, which Fortner says gave her invaluable corporate experience, also allowed her to apply concepts learned in the classroom, such as consistent messaging throughout international markets while making necessary adaptations. She also interned with Lolabean Jewelry, an e-commerce jewelry brand and BAM Communications, a boutique communications consultancy specializing in clean beauty.

“Ultimately, my goal is to be an agent of change in the fashion and beauty world,” shares Fortner. “I am passionate about these areas because I believe people utilize them as a tool to not only create and express their identities, but also to bolster their confidence. My hope is to make marketing initiatives more diverse and inclusive in this field.”

Read more about Madison’s graduate studies journey.