Each year, at the Fashion Institute of Technology’s glamorous black-tie Annual Awards Gala, a handful of icons across various industries are honored for their achievements in the new creative economy.

This year, FIT honored a group of visionaries whose achievements create purpose-driven, sustainable solutions. This included founder and creative force behind AERIN, Aerin Lauder. She was presented with the Business and Entreprenuership Award, which honors her entrepreneurial spirit, business sense, and creative vision that has helped her build a successful, globally recognized lifestyle and beauty brand.

Aerin Lauder founded AERIN, a celebrated luxury lifestyle brand, in 2012. Inspired by her signature, effortless style, AERIN has emerged as a distinct voice in the world of beauty, fashion and home décor. Lauder began her career at Estée Lauder in 1992, where she held several executive roles, including Senior Vice President and Creative Director. In addition to running her eponymous brand, she maintains her role as the Estée Lauder Companies’ style and image director.

The annual gala, which took place on April 13, benefits the FIT Foundation, which is dedicated to providing financial opportunity to the next generation of the college students. In addition to facilitating programs and developing new initiatives, the foundation has provided scholarships totaling more than $3 million in 2021.