**NEW YORK, March 21, 2023 /PRNewswire/ –** On October 17, 2023, Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) will host its annual Fall Awards Gala, an inspirational evening that celebrates creativity, innovation, and leadership within the fashion and beauty industries. The Gala will also serve as an unforgettable celebration of FIT’s 75th anniversary and will take place at Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City..
FIT is thrilled to announce that the esteemed fashion designer Mary McFadden will serve as the Co-Chair of the 2023 Gala. An FIT alumna and a prominent figure in the fashion world for over five decades, McFadden has not only left an indelible mark on fashion but has also been a dedicated supporter of FIT. Her remarkable contributions to the industry and her unwavering commitment to FIT make her the ideal candidate to lead this prestigious event..
In addition, FIT is honored to reveal the impressive list of individuals who will be honored at the 2023 Gala. These exceptional leaders represent the pinnacle of their respective fields and have made invaluable contributions to the fashion and beauty industries. They include:.
* **Geoffrey Beene Lifetime Achievement Award:** Tommy Hilfiger, Founder and Principal Designer of Tommy Hilfiger, and Dee Hilfiger, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Tommy Hilfiger.
* **Couturier Award:** Wes Gordon, Creative Director of Carolina Herrera.
* **Disruptor Award:** Aurora James, Founder and Creative Director of Brother Vellies and the Fifteen Percent Pledge.
* **Humanitarian Award:** Dr. Valerie Steele, Director and Chief Curator of The Museum at FIT.
* **Innovation Award:** Michelle Cordeiro Grant, Co-Founder and CEO of Lively.
* **Media Award:** Nina Garcia, Editor-in-Chief of ELLE.
* **Social Impact Award:** Virgil Abloh™️ .
