The New York Urban League 2023 Champions of Diversity Event

Posted by Events

Jerry Vittoria, Linda G.Levy, Avra R. Rice, Helen Shelton

Linda G. Levy, President of The Fragrance Foundation received her first ever Catalyst Award from The New York Urban League for her leadership in advancing DEI in the multi-billion dollar fragrance industry.

The Fragrance Foundation’s initiative is to provide equitable opportunities for people of all backgrounds. The event also launched a comprehensive partnership between the Fragrance Foundation and The New York Urban League ( NYUL). The Fragrance Foundation Catalyst Initiative will benefit NYUL’s Diversity Lab and provide training, career development, mentorship, and job opportunities for professionals of color interested in careers in the fragrance industry. The initiative is supported by all 200 members of The Fragrance Foundation member companies in a focused effort, including Fragrance Houses, Brands, Retailers, and related businesses.

” I am honored to receive The Catalyst Award, from the New York Urban League on behalf of The Fragrance Foundation and community” says Linda Levy. ” It is not only about the award itself, but what it symbolizes: our long term commitment to ensuring that the entire industry reflects all people. We are 100% committed to providing opportunities and building a sustainable platform to meet the interests of those served by The New York Urban League, its innovative Diversity Lab and the lasting impact our combined efforts are designed to have.”

Hosted by Arva Rice, Emceed by WNBC-TV anchor David Ushery and chaired by Helen C. Shelton, Global Chief Diversity Officer at FINN Partners and NYUL Board Member, Champions offered an insightful forum where leaders new and established gathered to exchange ideas on advancing diversity, equity and inclusion and to celebrate those who are making a tangible impact in this critical area. Fragrance industry leaders who paid tribute to Linda and her impact as an authentic DEI leader included Fragrance Society founder Tiff Benson, Tricia Butler, president of Givenchy and Kenzo, North America, LVMH; Chris Collins, founder World Of Chris Collins; Ann Gottlieb, president Anne Gottlieb Associates; Sharne Jackson, executive director, TFF; Nicole Monson, senior VP, Estée Lauder Companies; Giancarlo Perez and Bernardo Moller, founders, House of Bo; Linda Song, senior perfumer, Givaudan; and Jerry Vittoria.