Two LGJ Seniors Accepted to FIT: A Story of Hard Work, Heart, and an Unforgettable Moment

The LGJ community is celebrating a remarkable achievement as seniors Brianna R. and Leana B. have officially been accepted to the Fashion Institute of Technology, one of the most competitive and prestigious fashion and design schools in the country. Their acceptance is a testament to their dedication, creativity, and relentless work ethic, both inside and outside the classroom.

For any student, earning a spot at FIT is a major accomplishment. For Brianna and Leana, it represents years of passion, discipline, and commitment to their craft. Their portfolios, academic performance, and personal drive carried them to this moment and the LGJ community could not be prouder.

But Leana’s journey to FIT also includes a powerful moment that unfolded right here at LGJ, during an interview conducted by LGJ Sports Media – Beyond The Sports featuring Assembly Member Chantel Jackson.

During the interview, Leana was working behind the scenes on the video and sound boards. When Assembly Member Jackson mentioned FIT during the interview, Leana became visibly emotional and joined the conversation. She shared that FIT was also her dream school and that she hoped to attend after graduating in June.

Without hesitation, Assembly Member Jackson offered to write Leana a letter of recommendation, a gesture that left the entire room moved. It was a moment of connection, mentorship, and genuine support that highlighted the power of storytelling and student voice.

While the recommendation letter was meaningful and appreciated, it is important to emphasize that both Brianna and Leana earned their acceptances through their own hard work, talent, and dedication. The letter helped amplify what was already true: they were ready, qualified, and deserving.

This milestone also adds to the growing legacy of the LGJ Sports Media program. Our student journalists have now completed over 70 interviews, including conversations with notable figures such as Urban Assembly CEO David Adams, Former DOE Chancellor David C. Banks, Assembly Member Chantel Jackson, Brandon Frame, Former NFL player Soul Cole, Superintendent Fred Walsh, and many more. Moments like Leana’s emotional exchange with Assembly Member Jackson show exactly why this program matters; it creates real opportunities, real connections, and real impact.

As Brianna and Leana prepare to take their next steps at FIT, they carry with them the pride of the entire LGJ community. Their success is a reminder that when talent meets hard work and when students are supported, seen, and believed in, incredible things happen.

Congratulations to Brianna R. and Leana B. The future of fashion just gained two extraordinary young women.