Black Alumni of Pratt Celebrate Creative Spirit At Gala

The Black Alumni of Pratt (BAP) 2013 Creative Spirit Awardees at Jazz at Lincoln Center. L-R: Anita Durst, Audrey Smaltz, Michele Oka Doner, Andrea L. TaylorOn September 12, the Black Alumni of Pratt (BAP) recognized four remarkable women for their accomplishments in the areas of fine art, the performing arts, fashion, community development, and technology at its 23rd annual scholarship benefit gala, Celebration of the Creative Spirit. Lori Stokes, co-anchor of WABC-TV’s Eyewitness News, hosted the glamorous gala, which was held in The Allen Room at Jazz at Lincoln Center.

Renowned artist and former Pratt Trustee Michele Oka Doner was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Creative Spirit Awards were given to Anita Durst, founder and artistic director of Chashama, an organization that connects artists with vacant real estate; Audrey Smaltz, founder and CEO of Ground Crew, a fashion show and event production company; and Andrea L. Taylor, director of citizenship and public affairs for North America, Microsoft Corporation.

L-R: BAP Co-Presidents Darius Somers and Gerri Brown with Pratt President Thomas F. Schutte at the reception at BAP’s 23rd Annual  “Celebration of the Creative Spirit” Benefit GalaThe Hon. David N. Dinkins and Joyce Dinkins were Honorary Patrons of the benefit gala. Edward Enninful, fashion and style director, W Magazine; artist Jeff Koons; and interior designer Stephen Sills were Honorary Co-Chairs. Gail A. Marquis, former professional basketball player; June Kelly, gallerist and Pratt Trustee; and Charles Storer, senior director, Robert Marston Corporate Communications, were Dinner Co-Chairs. Artist Derrick Adams (B.F.A. Art and Design Education ’96) was the Alumni Dinner Chair.

BAP is led by co-presidents Gerri Brown (B.F.A. Merchandising and Fashion Management ’76) and Darius Somers (B. Arch ’08).

Text: Amy Aronoff
Photo: Julie Skarratt Photography Inc.