NRF encourages retail pros to "Dream BIG"

Twenty retail industry professionals dreaming of making it big in the retail industry have a unique opportunity thanks to the National Retail Federation.

NRF is collaborating again with University of Phoenix School of Business to award 20 full-tuition scholarships to retail industry professionals who want to enhance their careers through education.

The Dream BIG scholarship program is open to any applicant who resides in the U.S. and works full or part-time for a retail or restaurant company, and meets additional eligibility criteria. Hundreds of retail workers from companies across the U.S. applied for Dream BIG scholarships in 2014, and 20 deserving and ambitious recipients earned the scholarships. The stories shared by the 2014 Dream BIG applicants demonstrate the fulfilling and challenging career paths available for retail professionals who work hard and want to move up in their organizations.

“Behind every great retail brand are great retail workers –- truly the heart and soul of our industry and the fuel that keeps the fires going for hundreds of thousands of businesses throughout the country,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. “Many of these individuals share a common goal to grow personally and professionally in the retail industry and we want to help them get there. The Dream BIG Scholarship is more than just an opportunity to earn a degree, it’s a chance to help people recognize their full potential and prosper in their career path.”

“The multi-faceted retail industry moves at a fast pace and needs professionals who can grow with their organizations,” said Ruth Veloria, executive dean for University of Phoenix School of Business. “The retail sector employs millions of Americans, and as technology and consumer preferences evolve, University of Phoenix is committed to preparing the next generation of retail leaders with education that is aligned to industry needs. The industry offers many diverse and rewarding career paths and the scholarship was created to help retail employees realize their full potential and meet evolving employer needs.”

Applications are being accepted through March 31 at nrf.com/dreambig.