Renowned fashion designers, Tommy Hilfiger and Nina Garcia, were among the many industry figures who gathered to honour Dr. Joyce Brown, the esteemed President of the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), for her remarkable 27 years of service to the institution. The event, held at The Glasshouse in New York City on Tuesday, April 1, was a gala celebrating Dr. Brown’s contributions as the longest-serving president of FIT and the first African American to hold the position. The gathering, hosted by Michael Kors and Nina Garcia, both FIT alumni, was a star-studded affair with 500 guests in attendance, including a video tribute from New York State Governor Kathy Hochul.
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During the gala, guests were treated to a special salute from students and tributes honouring Dr. Brown’s significant accomplishments in the realms of Innovation, Sustainability, and Social Impact. As Garcia, the editor-in-chief of Elle and a judge on Project Runway, shared with PEOPLE, Dr. Brown’s influence on the fashion and creative industries has been profound. Garcia described Dr. Brown as a “powerhouse” and expressed pride in being an alumna of FIT, highlighting how Dr. Brown has consistently supported and championed students, leaving a lasting mark in the fashion world and beyond.
The evening’s presenters included industry icons such as Tommy Hilfiger, Deborah Roberts, and FIT alumnus and designer Francisco Costa, who presented a tribute to sustainability on behalf of Amber Valletta, the supermodel and FIT Sustainability Ambassador. The gala also saw the unveiling of the Dr. Joyce F. Brown Legacy Fund, which aims to nurture the next generation of FIT students by supporting innovative programs, initiatives, and scholarships. By the end of the event, over $2.4 million had been raised towards this cause, showcasing the generosity and commitment of FIT alumni and supporters.
Dr. Brown herself took to the stage to share her thoughts on the transformative power of education, noting how her own education had opened doors and opportunities that led to meaningful connections with those in attendance. Reflecting on FIT’s impact on the fashion industry, Dr. Brown acknowledged the institution’s rich history and its role in shaping a new era for fashion through a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern technologies. She underscored the importance of infusing new skill sets and technologies to invigorate the industry, a vision that continues to drive FIT forward.
The gala was a testament to Dr. Brown’s enduring legacy and the profound impact she has had on the FIT community and beyond. With heartfelt tributes, moving speeches, and a shared commitment to supporting the next generation of creatives, the event served as a fitting send-off for a leader who has dedicated nearly three decades to fostering innovation and excellence in the world of fashion education. As the evening came to a close, Dr. Brown’s legacy as a trailblazer in the industry was celebrated, ensuring that her influence will continue to inspire generations of future fashion leaders.