NEW YORK, NY(SMI-FASHION, 06.15-06.16.21)-The Parsons School of Design, also known as "The New School" hosted its annual Parson Benefit Gala Today (Tuesday June 15), honoring: Jeff Gennette, Angela Ahrendts,Gabriela Hearst, Kerby Jean-Raymond, Travis Scott & Carrie Mae Weems, Celebrating Its 125th Anniversary and for their Contributions to the World of Design, during special virtual and in-peson awarding honoree presentation & ceremony at the Seaport District in New York City.

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The 2021-72nd Parsons benefit gala was produced by JWP and co-chair by Liz Rodbell(Group President, Steve Madden) and Gena Smith (SVP, Human Resources & Head of Global Executive & Creative Recruitment, LVMH Inc).

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Travis Scott, Grammy-Nominated Artist & Innovator: 

Grammy nominated artist and innovator Travis Scott is undeniably one of the most creative visionaries in the world. Travis is one of the top hip hop artists of this generation from the release of his first album “Rodeo” to the astronomical triple platinum album “Astroworld” and the “JACKBOYS” compilation album.

 

Travis Scott created the original song “The Plan” for Tenet, the new sci-fi action spectacle from acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan, and produced by composer Ludwig Göransson, Wondagurl and Scott. Travis is also the CEO of his own label, Cactus Jack, which is home to Don Toliver, Sheck Wes, and Chase B. Beyond music, Travis has paved his own way as one of the most sought out talent for brands, earning partnerships with Playstation, Fortnite, McDonald’s, Byredo, Nike, and more! In addition to working with other brands, Travis founded his own agave spiked seltzer brand CACTI as his own beverage venture in partnership with Anheuser-Busch.

 

In 2020 Travis founded the Cactus Jack Foundation where he has partnerships with the Parsons School of Design to create his own fashion program, launched his own HBCU Scholarship Program and partners with the city of Houston and other organizations for several Cactus Jack Foundation Emergency relief drives, including the launch of a Houston Winter Frieze Emergency Relief food Program serving 50,000 people across 30 zip codes throughout the year impacting 100,000 people.

CACTUS JACK FOUNDATION - The mission of the Cactus Jack Foundation is to empower and enrich the lives of youth by providing access to education and creative resources to ensure long term success. The foundation believes the youth should not be prevented from attaining their lifetime goal and is committed to extending educational opportunities to all, regardless of their circumstances to achieve their dreams.  

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The Notable attendees/Guests included:

● Brent Faiyaz, Musician

● Donna Karan, Designer

● Elaine Welteroth, American Journalist

● Joey Bada$$, Musician

● Jonathan Singletary, Musician

● Kennedy Yanko, Artist

● Lena Waithe, Actress/Writer

● Rishi Rajani, Film Producer

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About the Parsons Benefit

The Parsons Benefit is an annual celebration of the inspirational and transformational role that fashion, design and the arts play in today’s world. The evening highlights the outstanding work of our fashion, design, and performing arts students, and brings together an esteemed group of tastemakers, industry leaders, Parsons alumni, and other luminaries from the global Parsons network. Most importantly, the event raises critical scholarship funds for current and future students who would be unable to attend without the generosity of our donors.

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The New School was founded in 1919 as an institution dedicated to intellectual and artistic freedom. Today it is a leading university offering some of the nation's best-respected degree, certificate, and continuing education programs in design, the social sciences, liberal arts, management and public policy, and performing arts.