Alumni Spotlight: Jenny Junker
2018 FSF Scholar and 2019 FSF Chairman’s Award Recipient
from Iowa State University
Jenny is based in New York City and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Apparel Merchandising and Design with a minor in Entrepreneurial Studies from Iowa State University. Her journey in the fashion industry was notably influenced by an early introduction to the Fashion Scholarship Fund (FSF). Encouraged by her academic mentor, Jenny applied and became a 2018 scholarship recipient. In 2019, she was a Top 8 Finalist and went on to win the FSF Chairman’s Award.
In college, Jenny's passion for retail was evident through her active involvement in the ISU Fashion Show, National Retail Federation Student Association, and multiple undergraduate teaching assistant roles. Her most significant experiences, however, were tied to the FSF. Jenny used the FSF case studies to enhance her industry knowledge and presentation skills. Being an FSF Scholar provided her access to internships with iconic brands across various industries and positions, from Planning and Product Development to Investment Banking. Jenny credits the FSF with helping her launch her career in New York City and for fostering a connected network of supportive peers and mentors worldwide.
After graduating, Jenny began her career in Merchandise Planning at Ross Stores, where she gained skills in inventory management, assortment planning, and financial analysis. She then joined Calvin Klein as a Merchandise Planner, later transitioning into Merchandising, where she is currently a Women’s Apparel Merchant, specializing in Woven Tops. In this position, she oversees the creation of a global omnichannel line by collaborating with Design and Product Development colleaugues. She also builds relationships with key regional partners, ensuring accounts have what they need to drive commerciality while staying trend-relevant. For Jenny, Merchandising perfectly combines her love for product, financial strategy, and cross-functional collaboration. The most rewarding aspect of her role is creating beautiful products with a dedicated team.
Jenny remains an active FSF Alumna and attributes much of her early success to the network and support provided by the FSF. She is passionate about mentoring students and sharing her learnings with the next generation of talent, encouraging every student interested in succeeding in the industry to get involved with the FSF. “Winning the FSF Chairman’s Award catapulted my career—it was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With the FSF’s support, I had the financial means to move to New York City and access to a welcoming network for building relationships and career opportunities. I hold my experience with the FSF in the highest regard and am deeply grateful to be part of this incredible community.”