the 72nd annual parsons benefit raises $3 Million for scholarships at the new school

June 16, 2021, New York - The New School honored multi-platinum selling artist and innovator Travis Scott; Jeff Gennette, Chairman and CEO of Macy’s, Inc.; Angela Ahrendts DBE, Former SVP of Apple Retail and CEO of Burberry; designer Gabriela Hearst; designer Kerby Jean-Raymond; and artist Carrie Mae Weems at the 72nd annual Parsons Benefit, which this year celebrated the 125th anniversary of Parsons School of Design.

The honorees were recognized for their numerous contributions to design, retail, entrepreneurship, the arts, sustainability, and social justice, as well as their long-standing commitment to supporting and creating opportunities for future generations of artists and designers. The event was held at the Rooftop of Pier 17 in the Seaport District in New York City, and included guests Kylie Jenner, Kenneth Cole, Lena Waithe, Cynthia Erivo, Elaine Welteroth, Wes Gordon, and more.

The Parsons Benefit is a perennial event on the New York fashion calendar, and introduces the next generation of fashion design leaders, honors icons in the field, and raises instrumental funds for student scholarships. This year’s Parsons Benefit highlights The New School’s history of progressive leadership and commitment to New York City by being one of the first in-person events to contribute to the reopening of NYC. 

During the Benefit, Macy’s, Inc. announced a $1 million endowed scholarship to support graduates of Parsons Scholars program who enroll at Parsons. The Macy’s Endowed Scholarship Fund for Parsons School of Design will foster the talents of a diverse pool of NYC public high school students of color from low-income backgrounds for years to come, supporting them on their path to becoming the design leaders of tomorrow.

“I think the important thing is to remember that the kids rule the world, and they’re never going to stop ruling the world,” said Travis Scott during his acceptance speech. “And I think the more that we acknowledge that the more peace we can find.”

"It was an honor to celebrate our honorees, who are all leaders in their fields, and have empowered young designers and artists through their incredible work,” said Rachel Schreiber, Executive Dean of Parsons School of Design.

The evening featured performances by students from The New School’s College of Performing Arts, as well as installations of work from students in the Parsons MFA Textiles program and the Parsons Paris Fashion Design program. The Parsons Benefit was co-chaired by Liz Rodbell, Co-Chair of the Parsons Board of Governors and Group President of Steve Madden, and Gena Smith, Parsons Board Member and SVP of Human Resources and Head of Executive & Creative Recruitment at LVMH.

A full suite of photos can be found here.