LaSalle College Vancouver and Polimoda Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Fashion Education

VANCOUVER, BC – March 18, 2026 – LaSalle College Vancouver (LCV) and Polimoda, leading international fashion school based in Italy, have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that establishes a framework for collaborative initiatives in fashion education, research, and student engagement between Canada and Italy. 

The agreement, signed by Dr. Jamie Kemp, Chief Academic Officer at LaSalle College Vancouver, and Massimiliano Giornetti, Director of Polimoda, opens pathways for knowledge exchange, faculty collaboration, and enhanced learning opportunities for students at both institutions. 

Based in Florence, the heart of Italian fashion production, Polimoda is a non-profit institution dedicated to fashion education, research, and advanced training, operating at the intersection of design, culture, and industry. LaSalle College Vancouver, part of the LCI Education network, offers diploma and degree programs in design, media, and creative arts at its campus in British Columbia. 

"This partnership with Polimoda represents a significant milestone for LaSalle College Vancouver and our students," said Dr. Jamie Kemp, Chief Academic Officer at LaSalle College Vancouver. "By connecting our fashion programs with one of Italy's most prestigious fashion institutes, we're providing our students with unprecedented access to Italian design heritage, global industry perspectives, and international collaboration opportunities. This agreement strengthens our commitment to delivering world-class fashion education right here in Vancouver while opening doors to authentic European fashion experiences for our community." 

“This agreement reflects Polimoda’s ongoing commitment to international academic dialogue and to fostering meaningful connections between fashion education, culture, and industry,” said Massimiliano Giornetti, Director of Polimoda. “Collaborating with LaSalle College Vancouver allows us to create new opportunities for students and faculty, encouraging the exchange of perspectives and practices within a global educational framework.” 

The MoU identifies several areas of mutual interest, including collaboration in research and education, engagement of students in educational programs, exchange of publications and materials, and joint participation of faculty and students in conferences, seminars, and workshops. 

This Canada-Italy partnership reinforces the global nature of fashion education and the importance of cross-cultural dialogue in preparing the next generation of creative professionals. Both institutions are committed to exploring specific collaboration opportunities that will benefit their respective communities while maintaining their institutional autonomy. 

The agreement will be reviewed every three years to evaluate progress and enhance the quality of collaboration between the two institutions. 

About LaSalle College Vancouver 

LaSalle College Vancouver is a leading post-secondary institution in British Columbia, Canada, offering diploma and degree programs in design, media, creative arts, and related fields. Part of the LCI Education network, LaSalle College Vancouver is committed to providing career-focused education that prepares students for success in creative industries. Discover all programs here.

About Polimoda 

Polimoda is internationally recognized for its independent approach and innovative vision in fashion education. Founded in Florence in 1986, it is today regarded as one of the leading fashion schools worldwide. The institution combines design expertise with the production know-how of Made in Italy within a contemporary, international perspective. With approximately 2,000 students, 80% of whom come from 107 countries, Polimoda represents a global educational and cultural hub at the heart of Florence. For more information, visit www.polimoda.com.