Middle (Left to Right): Chuin-Kai Shi, Jes Gordon, Fern Mallis, Joseph Wicke; DIFFA Executive Director Dawn Roberson poses with Tom Polucci, Firm-wide Director of Interiors, HOK, and Chairman of the Board of DIFFA and Abigail French
Bottom (Left to Right): Student Design Installations from SVA; FIT
On Wednesday, April 2, beneath the soaring Gothic arches of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, the design community gathered for the Design Industries Foundation (DIFFA) Midnight Masque gala—an evening of magic, mystery, and revelry in the shadows—that raised over $350,000 in support of DIFFA’s mission to fight HIV/AIDS, food and housing insecurities, and mental health challenges.
Beneath the flickering candlelight, guests enjoyed captivating performances by Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter Rhonda Ross, drag performer Elliott with Two T’s, and DJ Johnsville, and a full gospel choir, which delighted guests with apropos hits like Like a Prayer. Towering stilt performers, a mesmerizing “living carpet,” and other costumed performers added to the enchanting atmosphere.
Throughout the night, DIFFA Student Design Initiative students—from Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), the New York School of Interior Design (NYSID), Pratt Institute, and the School of Visual Arts—showcased their talents with mesmerizing installations that embodied the theme “Splendor in the Shadows, Purpose in the Light,” an inspiring example of the boldness and creativity of the next generation.
Notables included DIFFA Executive Director Dawn Roberson; Firm-wide Director of Interiors at HOK and Chairman of the Board of DIFFA, Tom Polucci; Jamie Drake, Fern Mallis, Alan M. Siegel, Harriette Cole, George Chinsee, Mica Hughes, and Vanessa Deleon, among others
With federal funding for many vital programs at risk, this is a critical fundraising moment.
ABOUT DIFFA
DIFFA grants funds to organizations that provide aid and access to healthcare for a diverse group of people affected by HIV/AIDS, food & housing insecurities, and mental health issues. Harnessing the design industry’s resources and creativity to respond to critical health issues and build a healthier, robust, and inclusive community. In other words, making a DIFFA-rence!
Mobilizing the immense resources and creativity of the design community, DIFFA has granted more than $57 million to hundreds of charities nationwide.
DIFFA received a 4-star (98%) ranking from Charity Navigator, telling donors they can trust the foundation to make the best use of their contributions.