Diversity & Inclusion

NEW YORK — In what appears to be a case of back-pedaling to alleviate concerns of her devoted fanbase, Lady Gaga's deal to sell a special edition of her upcoming album at Target is off.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Robert Eckert, chairman and CEO of Mattel, will be presented the community leader award at the Exceptional Children’s Foundation's 65th Anniversary Gala. The recognition acknowledges Eckert’s leadership and ongoing commitment to shaping the development of generations of children, inspiring creativity and innovation and for demonstrating what's possible through a world of play, Mattel reported.

New York — Lady Gaga's deal to sell a special edition of her upcoming album at Target is off.

A representative for the flamboyant and outspoken singer said Wednesday the two sides "came to a mutual decision to end their overall exclusive partnership a few weeks ago." Last month, it was announced that Target Corp. would be selling a deluxe edition of the album, to be released May 23, with bonus content.

WASHINGTON -- Gap Inc. announced that it has received the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW) Champions for Change Award for Innovation in recognition of the company’s P.A.C.E. (Personal Advancement and Career Enhancement) program.  This workplace program was developed by Gap Inc. in 2006 to provide life skills and enhanced technical skills education to female garment workers to help them advance in the work place and in their personal lives.

New York -- Dov Charney, the controversial founder and CEO of American Apparel, has been hit with his most serious lawsuit to date.  Charney, 42, who has previously dodged lawsuits claiming sexual harassment, as well as non litigious-claims about a sexually-charged work environment, is being sued for $250 million in damages for allegedly forcing a teen employee to perform sexual acts. 

Los Angeles -- Guess announced Monday that it has appointed Nancy Shachtman as its president of North America, reporting to Paul Marciano, CEO and vice chairman.

Shactman was previously president of Guess Inc. Wholesale. In her new position, she will oversee the North American retail operations for Guess and Guess by Marciano, as well as Guess Wholesale, including Mexico.

Suffern, N.Y. -- Dressbarn parent Ascena Retail Group announced Monday it has named John Pershing as senior VP human resources over Dressbarn, with additional responsibilities for Ascena Retail Group’s compensation, benefits and human resources information system.

Pershing will report to Jeff Gerstel, executive VP and COO, effective immediately. Pershing succeeds David Montieth, who announced his retirement after 20 years with the company.