Meredith Student Selected for National Retail Federation Program

Sharysse Ferguson, a senior in the Fashion Merchandising and Design program, has been selected as a recipient of the NRF Foundation x CVS Health Retail Leaders Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship aims to increase representation and interest in store leadership opportunities.

Ferguson is proud to be among the first recipients of the new scholarship, which comes with a $10,000 scholarship and complimentary travel to New York City to attend the 2025 NRF Foundations Student Program.

“Participating in the NRF Student Program will be instrumental in achieving my career goals, as I aim to not only become a successful retail store manager but also open my own store and establish my own brand in the future,” Ferguson said. “This program will provide me with invaluable insights from a retail perspective, helping me understand current industry trends, challenges, and opportunities.”

During the conference, Fergusson will have the opportunity to connect with CVS Health representatives and a wide range of retail recruiters seeking candidates for internships and entry-level roles. Additionally, she will hear from top industry leaders and executives and explore store locations in New York.

“I am most excited about the opportunity to learn alongside my fellow peers and gain a deeper understanding of the current trends, opportunities, and challenges within the retail industry,” Ferguson said. “Immersing myself in this collaborative learning environment will not only expand my knowledge but also shape my perspective on how to address gaps in the market and drive meaningful change. By identifying and understanding these challenges now, I will be better equipped to develop solutions that align with both consumer needs and industry standards.”

At Meredith, Ferguson serves as vice president of the Meredith Fashion Association and is treasurer for the Kappa Omicron Nu Honor Society. 

“These roles have significantly shaped my perspective, allowing me to connect with a community of like-minded peers while honing my leadership and organizational skills,” said Ferguson. 

Ferguson encourages other students to seek out opportunities like the NRF Foundation scholarship. “You never know what might happen — you could be the next recipient of a scholarship that changes the trajectory of your academic and professional journey,” she said.