NEW YORK, March 1, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LIM College, which is focused exclusively on the study of business and fashion, has announced that Michael Gould, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bloomingdale's will deliver the keynote address at the College's 73rd annual Commencement exercises on Thursday, May 31, 2012 at Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center in Manhattan.
Mr. Gouldwill be presented with LIM College's Distinguished Achievement Award and receive an honorary Doctor of Commercial Science degree. Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.
Michael Gould, often referred to as one of the most accomplished and recognized leaders in American retailing, became Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bloomingdale's in 1991. His tenure has seen the greatest period of transformation and growth in the store's history, expanding from 16 units located mainly in the east, to a broad national brand presence with 37 stores in 17 major markets from coast to coast and the launch of bloomingdales.com. In 2010, Mr.Gould led the brand to its first global expansion into Dubai in addition to the first foray into the outlet business with four openings on the East Coast.
"We are very excited to have Michael Gould address our graduates at this year's Commencement," said LIM College President Elizabeth S. Marcuse. "Mr. Gould's fashion and retail leadership is legendary. Since he credits the launch of his retail career to an internship, and internships are a key component of an LIM College education, he will undoubtedly be inspirational to our students. He has reached the pinnacle of success in the retail and fashion world, which we hope our students will also go on to achieve. We are fortunate that Michael Gould and Bloomingdale's have been the College's partner and friend throughout the years."
Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer has achieved tangible results for New Yorkers by forging diverse coalitions and addressing the City's most enduring urban challenges. During his nearly three decades of public service, he has dedicated himself to making Manhattan more affordable and livable, tackling issues such as housing, school overcrowding, public safety, balanced development, sustainability and equal opportunities for underserved communities. He is also a leader in women's issues, immigrants' rights, and public health.
About LIM College
LIM College is focused exclusively on the study of business and fashion, offering a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree program with concentrations in Fashion Management and Entrepreneurship, Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degrees in Fashion Merchandising, Visual Merchandising, Marketing and Management, as well as Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS), Associate of Applied Science (AAS), and Associate in Occupational Studies (AOS) degrees in Fashion Merchandising, and Professional Certificates. Housed in four buildings in midtown Manhattan, LIM College provides a well-rounded education through the combination of in-class instruction and required fashion industry internships. LIM College was founded in 1939 and has been witness to every significant change in the retail and fashion industry for more than seven decades. Alumni have gone on to excel at top companies, including Coach, Jones Apparel, Kenneth Cole Productions, Macy's, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom. www.limcollege.edu