#United States #New York #LIM College #Elyce Arons #Frances Valentine

Elyce Arons to Keynote at LIM College Commencement 2026

In a momentous announcement, LIM College, renowned for its focus on fashion and lifestyle education, has revealed that Elyce Arons, the esteemed founder and CEO of Frances Valentine, will serve as the keynote speaker at their 2026 Commencement Ceremony. The event is scheduled for May 17 at David Geffen Hall, Lincoln Center, starting at 1 p.m. ET. Arons will not only deliver the keynote address but will also be honored with the Distinguished Achievement Award and an honorary Doctor of Commercial Science degree.

Elyce Arons brings over 35 years of experience from the fashion industry, a journey that showcases her passion and dedication. She transitioned from her modest beginnings in Kansas to the bustling streets of New York City, alongside her best friend Kate Spade. In 1993, they launched Kate Spade New York, a brand that rapidly evolved into a household name, celebrated for its distinctive aesthetic.

Throughout her tenure at Kate Spade, Arons played a pivotal role in shaping the brand's identity and expanding its reach globally. Her visionary leadership enabled the brand to become synonymous with modern fashion, reflecting both elegance and empowerment. After years of success, Arons, alongside Spade and her husband Andy Spade, ventured to establish Frances Valentine in 2016, creating a brand that encapsulates chic and joyful design.

In addition to her accomplishments in fashion, Elyce Arons authored a memoir titled We Might Just Make It After All, which gained a spot on the New York Times Best Seller list shortly after its launch. The memoir details her enduring friendship with Kate Spade and the myriad of lessons learned while cultivating two iconic fashion brands, providing an intimate look into the world of fashion entrepreneurship.

Arons is also actively involved with the LIM Fashion Education Foundation (FEF), an initiative aimed at providing scholarships and enhancing educational opportunities for students at LIM College. Her commitment to nurturing the next generation of fashion leaders has earned her a place on the Inc. Magazine Female Founders 500 list for 2025, recognizing her innovative collaborations and ongoing success with Frances Valentine.

In a statement, Ron Marshall, the president of LIM College, remarked, "Elyce is a force of nature whose more than three decades of brilliant success in fashion are a testament to what is possible when you dream big and are unwavering in your commitment to your brand. Her continuous innovation and hard work resonate with our students, who will undoubtedly find inspiration in her story."

LIM College, founded in 1939 and located in the heart of midtown Manhattan, specializes in providing a comprehensive education in the global business of fashion and lifestyle. The college offers an array of degrees, including master’s, bachelor’s, and associate programs, all designed to equip students with practical skills through hands-on experience, such as mandatory internships. The college boasts an impressive 95% Career Outcomes Rate for the graduates of the Class of 2024, illustrating its effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers in diverse sectors of the fashion industry.

Alumni from LIM College have gone on to carve out successful careers with prestigious companies such as Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Nike, and many more, making notable contributions to the vibrant landscape of fashion and lifestyle.

Frances Valentine continues to thrive as an innovative brand that reflects timeless style and joy, with each creation telling its own unique story. Elyce Arons’ unwavering passion for fashion and commitment to excellence ensures that she remains not only a leader in the industry but also a mentor and inspiration for future generations. Her participation in LIM College’s commencement is not just a celebration of her achievements but also a beacon of hope and encouragement for students embarking on their professional journeys.

As we approach the 2026 Commencement Ceremony, excitement builds around Elyce Arons’ address and the impact her story will undoubtedly have on the graduating Class of 2026, affirming their potential in the dynamic world of fashion.