The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) unveiled on Friday the honorees for its upcoming Annual Awards Gala, set to take place at The Glasshouse in New York City on Wednesday, May 8, 2024. 

Among the honorees set to be recognized are FIT alumna Norma Kamali, designer Kenneth Cole, and fashion entrepreneur Rebecca Hessel Cohen. The gala will serve as a platform to honor their contributions to the industry, highlighting their innovation, sustainability efforts, and commitment to social responsibility.

Norma Kamali, celebrated for her transformative influence on fashion design, will receive the Outstanding Alumni Award, while Kenneth Cole will be presented with the Social Impact Award in recognition of his advocacy for social causes, particularly in the realm of mental health. Rebecca Hessel Cohen, the founder and creative director of LoveShackFancy, will be honored with the Entrepreneurship Award for her achievements in fashion, fragrance, and retail.

“We are pleased to honor these creative visionaries, each advancing fashion design – and the industry – in their own distinct way,” said Dr. Joyce F. Brown, president of FIT. 

“And with commencement season upon us, we are especially grateful for the positive, lasting impact they will have as role models to our students as they prepare to embark on their own creative journeys.”

The gala will feature TV host, journalist, and philanthropist Tamron Hall as a presenter for Kenneth Cole’s award, with additional presenters to be announced.

As part of the evenings events, Macy’s will sponsor the Future of Fashion Runway Show for the third consecutive year, and will recognize outstanding student talent with the Macy’s Empowered Design Award, as well as the Macy’s Capsule Collection Award, which will give one lucky student the opportunity to see their design produced and sold under Macy’s private brand Bar III in 2025.