The New School has announced its esteemed honorees for the 76th annual Parsons Benefit, a highly anticipated event in the design community that will take place on May 20th. This year, the spotlight will shine on three remarkable individuals: Artemis Patrick, the president and CEO of Sephora North America; Madelyn Wils, the CEO of the Fifth Avenue Association; and the innovative designer Willy Chavarria. Each of these honorees has made significant contributions to their respective fields, embodying the spirit of creativity and social responsibility that the Parsons School of Design champions.
Yvonne Watson, the executive dean of Parsons School of Design, expressed the institution’s commitment to recognizing leaders who are making a positive impact within the design industry and beyond. “Every year, Parsons seeks to honor leaders who are creating a positive impact within the design industry and the world at large, and our honorees reflect those values,” Watson stated. This dedication to honoring influential figures underscores Parsons’ mission to foster a culture of innovation and social consciousness among its students and the broader community.
Willy Chavarria, one of the honorees, shared an inspiring message aimed at the next generation of fashion talent. He emphasized the profound role that design plays in communication, stating, “I believe that design is the most sophisticated voice in communication. Our future designers will have the tremendous responsibility of influencing the way society thinks and feels, and the ability not only to shape culture but also to guide it in a way that creates a better world.” Chavarria’s words resonate deeply within the fashion industry, highlighting the responsibility designers have to use their platforms for positive change.
The three honorees will be presented with The Parsons Table Award, an accolade that recognizes individuals who have made a noteworthy impact on the design industry. This award celebrates those who champion social innovation and creativity across various sectors, including fashion, beauty, and retail. By honoring Patrick, Wils, and Chavarria, Parsons is not only acknowledging their individual achievements but also reinforcing the importance of leadership that prioritizes social responsibility and creativity.
This year’s Parsons Benefit coincides with the Parsons BFA student festival, an exciting event that will showcase the talents of this year’s graduating students through a runway show. This festival serves as a platform for emerging designers to present their collections, allowing them to gain visibility and recognition in the competitive fashion landscape. The gala event will be held at a yet-to-be-disclosed location in New York City, adding an element of anticipation and exclusivity to the occasion.
The Parsons Benefit has a rich history of honoring influential figures in the design world. Past honorees include iconic designers such as Donna Karan, Jason Wu, and Vera Wang, as well as celebrated artists like Kehinde Wiley and cultural icons such as Pharrell and Rihanna. The recognition of these individuals not only highlights their contributions to the industry but also inspires current and future generations of designers to aspire to greatness.
As the date of the Parsons Benefit approaches, excitement builds within the design community. The event promises to be a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the power of design to effect positive change. With honorees like Artemis Patrick, Madelyn Wils, and Willy Chavarria leading the way, the future of the design industry looks bright, filled with potential for social impact and cultural transformation.
