FIT 2019 Sustainable Fundraiser Gala
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer
Carrying fashion forward, the Fashion Institute of Technology has been the birthplace of outstanding designers for decades. Here is where talent leads to magic and creativity is wildly fostered. In 1994, the FIT Foundation made its mark on the fashion industry by coming to life to stand alongside its partnering school of education. The mission has been clear; to always nurture and educate future leaders of the fashion industry. There is a very strong bond between the college and its foundation. However, many of the initiatives and programs made readily available to gifted individuals who are given the opportunity to attend the college would not be fully possible without the gracious philanthropic efforts of those who hold fashion close to their hearts.
One of the most highly anticipated fund-raising events of the year was recently held on April 3rd, 2019. The FIT GALA is an annual event that brings together individuals from a diverse set of social circles. This year the gala was held in conjunction with the college’s 13th Annual Sustainable Business & Design Conference. As part of the entire agenda, the theme for the 2019 FIT GALA became “An Evening Celebrating Innovation in Sustainability.” Sponsors included Aveda, PVH, Kering, Ralph Lauren, Swarovski and Grant Sponsor National Endowment for the Arts.
This just happened to be the black tie event of the season held at the American Museum of Natural History located at Central Park West at 79th Street in New York City. Seen arriving on the Red Carpet were Alec and Hilaria Baldwin, Ken Downing, Dennis Basso, Fern Mallis, Joe Zee and many more. In addition to raising funding to support the next generation of leaders in the areas of fashion, cosmetics, fragrance and jewelry, there are honorees who are recognized for all the great work they do throughout the year which includes, first and foremost, a devoted commitment to environmental awareness and action, innovation and the social impact parlayed on those all around them.
One of the top supermodels of all time, Amber Valletta, hosted the extravaganza this year. There could be no better role model for the evening than Amber who has made her mark on the fashion world as well as the world of film. She is a passionate activist for Oceana’s Seafood Contamination Campaign. As spokesperson for the campaign, Amber is highlighting the dangers of mercury poisoning in some particular seafoods.
One of the honorees of the evening’s event was Nadja Swarovski who received the ‘Social Impact on Sustainability’ Award for dedicated efforts along with her company, Swarovski, towards global sustainability. Laurent Claquin, President of Kering Americas, was the recipient of the ‘Corporate Innovation in Sustainability’ Award, presented to him by Vanessa Friedman, New York Times Fashion Director. Claquin’s company goes above and beyond to do their part in taking the lead towards sustainability for tomorrow.
One of Fashion Institute of Technology’s own students, senior Kiana Brooks, was overcome with emotion as she received the inaugural ‘FIT Trusteeship Award.’ Her hard work spoke in volumes as Liz Peek, FIT’s Chair of the Board, recognized Kiana for her scholastic achievements, numerous volunteer activities that she participates in and the many projects Kiana has undertaken which have contributed to a more sustainable culture within the FIT community.
As the guests gave their support and cheered on those that were acknowledged for outstanding contributions, each of these attendees all valued the significance of a more sustainable future in their
own special way. The event itself raised over $1 million which will go towards enhancing programs, developing new initiatives and providing scholarship funding to deserving students at the internationally renowned Fashion Institute of Technology.
