JeLisa Marshall
Previous Degrees Obtained
Glasgow Caledonian New York College, Master of Science, Sustainable Fashion; Art Institute of Seattle, Associate of Applied Arts, Fashion Marketing; University of Washington Tacoma, Bachelor of Arts, Business Administration (Marketing)
Research Topic
I initially set out to investigate how cultural appropriation impedes sustainability in fashion. However, it expanded into an examination of the role that knowledge, power, and value play in sustaining fashion through a social and ecological lens.
Bio
I am a Ph.D. candidate whose research builds on over a decade of working in advocacy, marketing, and product development within fashion. Having collaborated with practitioners to produce and promote clothes worldwide, I am most interested in amplifying the contributions, ideas, and voices of all the beings who are appropriated or overlooked in the process. My research considers Indigenous communities across the Americas and the African diaspora to amplify Traditional Ecological Knowledge and plural ways of being, doing, and knowing. My goal is to weave more culturally responsive and regenerative practices into the industry by teaching the next generation of leaders.
Q&A
The PhD program at Prescott College aligns with my goals and values. I appreciate the interdisciplinary, experiential approach to sustainability education. The faculty truly reflects the mission and vision and, as such, I feel supported to co-create a more just world.
My research examined socioecological entanglements along the cotton-to-clothing value chain using ethnographic methods. The aim is to understand how knowledge, power, and value are created and shared from farm to fashion by including diverse perspectives and experiences.
One of the best parts of the doctoral program is the ability to attend remotely. It has helped me to stay deeply connected with the work in my community while furthering my studies.
The biggest challenge in the PhD program is securing research funding. I am overcoming this challenge by strengthening my network of support with fellow PhD scholars and professors.
Before joining Prescott College, I attended Glasgow Caledonian New York College to study sustainable business principles and social impact in the fashion industry. Prior to that, I worked in corporate fashion and mostly focused on product development. The roles I held provided a holistic view of the fashion supply chain by managing the design, development, and production of private label clothes and accessories for kids and women. I will bring my cumulative experiences into higher education as a professor upon earning my PhD.
Art rules my world! I enjoy engaging with art museums, crafting workshops, fashion shows, film screenings, music concerts, and non-fiction books. I also love being in and near water worldwide – especially on the West Coast. It is a major source of inspiration and restoration.
My advice to prospective students is to take the leap! The world needs more sustainability educators and Prescott College can help nurture your unique approach and worldview.