Charles Freeman, Ph.D.
We are proud to announce that Charles Freeman, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Fashion Merchandising, has been named president-elect of the International Textile and Apparel Association (ITAA), the leading academic organization in the fields of merchandising, design and textile education and research.
With a mission to promote the discovery, dissemination and application of knowledge in the textile and apparel fields, ITAA is recognized internationally for shaping the future of education, research and leadership across academia and industry.
This prestigious three-year leadership appointment, culminating in his role as president in 2027, reflects his distinguished contributions to the discipline and his forward-thinking vision for the future of fashion and textiles education.
“This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of our field at a pivotal time,” said Freeman. “I am honored to represent TCU and work alongside outstanding colleagues across the globe to advance innovation, scholarship and collaboration within our discipline.”
Freeman will be joined by Janace Bubonia, associate dean for academic affairs and professor, who serves on the Board of Governors for the Textile and Apparel Programs Accreditation Commission, the accrediting body affiliated with ITAA. Together, their leadership roles strengthen TCU’s position as an international leader in academic excellence, shaping the future of fashion merchandising education and research.