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
To examine how cultural appropriation in the fashion industry is a barrier To achieving sustainability justice.
- To identify the mechanisms needed for a more equitable and regenerative product development process in the fashion industry.
- To center Indigenous persepectives on and relationships with the fashion industry.
I am drawn to the multimodality of art. Its capacity to convey messages that transcend space and time is irrevocably fascinating. My interest has led to a myriad of experiences that formally began by studying marketing as an undergraduate. Learning the art of communicating value inspired me to work in the field across digital promotions and social media for fashion. This sparked a curiosity in product development. After more than a decade of collaborating with domestic and international suppliers to make wearable art, I wanted to better understand how culture shapes fashion and fashion shapes culture. My current research examines cultural appropriation as a sustainability justice issue, highlighting its economic, environmental, and social impacts. The goal is to center Indigenous design methodologies and perspectives in the discourse to create equitable partnerships and regereative practices in the industry.
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 focuses on cultural appropriation in fashion as a sustainability justice issue. The aim is to center Indigenous design perspectives and experiences within the product development process and identify how to create more equitable partnerships and regenerative industry practices.
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.