Alabama A&M University sophomore Brysonn Jones has been selected as the institution’s first recipient of the National Retail Foundation (NRF) Rising Stars Scholarship within the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences. The Nashville, Tennessee, native is majoring in family and consumer sciences with a concentration in apparel, merchandising and design (AMD). She was nominated for the honor by AMD Coordinator Dr. Kristian Hogans.

“I found out I received the scholarship via email and I was smiling from ear to ear,” said Jones. “Throughout the entire waiting period, I continually spoke this opportunity into existence, and I cannot help but feel immense gratitude for the professors who have supported and encouraged me along the way. I am truly blessed to have mentors who have helped make this achievement possible.”

The NRF Rising Stars Scholarship introduces younger students to the range of career opportunities available in the retail industry. Each year, one student representative is chosen from each of the more than 110 university member schools affiliated with the NRF Foundation. The award includes a $1,000 scholarship and covers registration, transportation and lodging for the NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City.

Jones will travel to New York Jan. 8–11, 2026, to participate in the program. During the four-day experience, she will attend industry talks, tour corporate offices, hear directly from retail leaders and experts, and meet with recruiters from more than 30 major brands at the NRF Career Fair. Jones says she is especially excited to learn about job and internship opportunities, listen to guest speakers discuss their experiences in the fashion industry and connect with like-minded students from across the country.

After graduation, Jones plans to pursue a career in product development, focusing on creating sample collections that reflect diverse consumer needs and support more sustainable fashion practices. She hopes to study industry trends, identify gaps in the market and contribute to the development of inclusive, innovative apparel.

“Ultimately, my career goal is to develop comfortable, well-fitting clothing for women who walk into department stores and feel as though their bodies do not fit the ‘standard.’ I want to serve a market that is often overlooked, one I personally relate to. As someone who has had similar experiences, I am committed to designing clothing that empowers women and helps them feel confident, seen, and included.”