91ÊÓƵ

Rico Putnam

Class of 2028

Currently Studying: BBA in Human Resources Management

Pronouns: He/Him/His

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Combining a passion for fashion with business expertise, Rico Putnam founded Ixchel Magazine to highlight emerging designers and create opportunities for young creatives to gain experience in the industry while championing diversity and inclusion.

Why did you choose 91ÊÓƵ and the Lubin School of Business?

I chose 91ÊÓƵ because of its diverse community and the opportunities it offers due to its close proximity to Condé Nast's headquarters and Wall Street.

What is The Ixchel?

The Ixchel is a monthly fashion and lifestyle magazine that covers topics such as runway, culture, fashion, and emerging brands. Our magazine shines a spotlight on new, emerging designers and provides a platform for talented young writers and photographers to gain experience working for an established publication. It also offers them the opportunity to attend and report on high-profile runway shows and events. One of our key pillars as a publication is our emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and amplifying the voices of those historically overlooked or underrepresented.

What inspired you to create The Ixchel, and how does it reflect your passion for fashion?

Since I was young, I've always loved fashion and the art behind it. If you asked my parents, they'd tell you I used to have them describe in vivid detail the dresses and suits worn by princes and princesses in their stories. Growing up, I would flip through magazines like Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and Harper's Bazaar, but I rarely saw young people in these spaces—especially those who looked like me.

When I started this magazine, I knew I wanted to hire young people and place a strong emphasis on DEI—and I've done just that. Being able to enter these spaces, see runways, and meet highly influential people has been a dream come true. Trying to make a change within this industry is an opportunity I'll never take for granted. Creating a platform that gives young people a voice and helps them begin their careers is incredibly inspiring. It's been a beautiful journey to watch these talented individuals grow more confident in their respective crafts.

How do you see The Ixchel evolving in the future, and what role do you think your Lubin education will play in that journey?

I want to continue growing our staff and begin publishing print editions of the magazine. I also aim to launch a larger marketing campaign to gain more exposure. Lubin has been extremely influential in this process, helping me navigate the complex aspects of running a business.

What has been your favorite opportunity at 91ÊÓƵ?

So far, the internship fairs and opportunities to speak with representatives from major companies, such as Christian Louboutin, have been incredibly useful for making connections and starting relationships with these organizations.

If there's something you want to do or somewhere you want to be, go for it. If you don't see a space for yourself, create one.

Do you have any advice for other Lubin students?

If there's something you want to do or somewhere you want to be, go for it. If you don't see a space for yourself, create one. Most importantly, make sure you have a strong support system. I wouldn't have been able to accomplish any of this without my deputy editor and closest friend, Lily Fonseca, as well as my mentors and friends.

What does #LubinLife mean to you?

To me, #LubinLife means finding the resources around you and using them to their full potential.