The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), the national trade association, has appointed new members to its Board of Directors, including Joe Preston, president and CEO of New Balance Athletics, Inc., as chair, and Danilo Amoretty, SVP Product Supply and Operations at Carhartt, Inc., as vice chair.

“I’m excited to work alongside the AAFA team to chart a clear, harmonized path toward a stronger and more resilient apparel and footwear industry. Throughout my career, AAFA has been an invaluable resource and steady advocate for our community. I look forward to building on that foundation and helping advance the positive, impactful work the team continues to deliver,” said Preston.

“For years, Joe Preston has challenged the AAFA team to strive for excellence while serving as a driving force in strengthening the entire apparel and footwear industry. As we prepare to navigate another year of twists and turns, we are fortunate to have his steady leadership guiding the way,” said Steve Lamar, president and CEO of the American Apparel & Footwear Association. “At the same time, we would not be where we are today without the exceptional leadership of Halide Alagöz. Her voice helped steer our industry through unforeseen challenges this year with trust and transparency. Her enduring legacy as a leader continues to shape our strategic direction and position us to achieve our goals for the future.”

Other appointments include Chris Volpe, United Legwear & Apparel Co., treasurer; Sally Gilligan, Gap, Inc., secretary and Halide Alagöz, Ralph Lauren Corporation, past chair.

The following were elected and re-elected to the AAFA Board of Directors for a three-year term beginning April 1, 2026:

  • Newly Elected: Meera Bhatia, Fabletics; Jeffrey Goldfarb, G-III Apparel Group, Ltd.; Raj Palakshappa, Oxford Industries; Stuart Pond, VF Corporation; andLisa Williams, Eileen Fisher.
  • Re-elected: Chris Alt, Elevate Textiles; Danilo Amoretty, Carhartt, Inc.; Oscar Feldenkreis, Perry Ellis International, Inc.; Mark Gitomer, Production Department; Lydia Ke, Luen Thai USA; Jason Kra, Li & Fung Ltd.; Alan Luchette, Marc Fisher Footwear; David Savman, PVH Corp.; and Chris Volpe, United Legwear & Apparel Co.

The board appointments were made during the AAFA 2026 Annual Executive Summit, held last week in Washington, D.C.

The AAFA also presented a Lifetime Achievement Award to industry veteran Jerry Cook on March 5, acknowledging his contributions, mentorship and commitment to the industry.

Image courtesy AAFA