We’re just days away from another incredible night of design inspiration and one of Philadelphia’s most prestigious events, Philadelphia University’s Evening of Innovation.
The Verizon Philadelphia University Evening of Innovation is an amazing platform for advancing the importance of higher education and innovation and the impact they have on the global economy. With proceeds providing scholarship support for Philadelphia University’s deserving students, this special evening pays tribute to students, faculty, alumni and friends who contribute their talent, creativity and determination to meeting current and emerging social needs through innovation. This celebration includes the Annual Fashion Show at the majestic Academy of Music, immediately followed by the Spirit of Innovation Gala and Awards Ceremony in the Grand Ballroom of the Hyatt at The Bellevue. This year’s Spirit of Design Award honors acclaimed fashion designer Nicole Miller.
As we put our final creative touches on this year’s event design, we can’t help but look back at last year’s super chic (if we dare say so) gold and black party design in honor of last year’s Spirit of Design Award recipient, John Varvatos. Designed and produced in just over a week, last year’s Spirit of Innovation Gala and Awards Ceremony gave Evantine’s illustrious leader, Brian Kappra, the opportunity to transform the ballroom at Hyatt at The Bellevue into a sleek, modern dining room inspired by Varvatos’ award-winning career in menswear fashion. With a sea of black lacquered tables, black faux crocodile chairs with clear Lucite backs, gold decorate elements and over 1,000 candles, there’s no doubt a dramatic statement was made in the usually-traditional ballroom. But Brian didn’t stop at the table designs. (Does he ever?)
He also transformed the existing stage into a modern, crisp, multi-media facade that caused a flood of “OH, WOWs” as all 500 guests walked into the ballroom. Having his personal fashion favorite John Varvatos stand on stage and say how AMAZING the room looked made the 20 hour installation worth every second!
The event will also recognize the Leaders of Innovation Medal. The honor is presented to innovative entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to education, industry or the professions that better society and exemplify the University’s mission and innovative spirit. The esteemed recipients are individuals whose creativity and business acumen shine a bright light on the importance of innovation to all of us. The 2013 Leader of Innovation Medals will be presented to:
- Charles Bernier ’74, President and Chief Executive Officer, ECBM
- James L. Hamling, Former CEO, Berwind Corporation
- Bud Konheim, Chief Executive Officer, Nicole Miller
- Meryl Levitz, President and Chief Executive Officer, Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corp.
- Robert C. Lockyer ‘68, Managing Partner, Merloc Partners L.P.
- Sean Lockyer ’99, Founder, Sean Lockyer AR+D
- Carole C. Wedge, FAIA LEED AP, President, Shepley Bulfinch
For more information about this fantastic event, please contact Paula Gaughan at gaughanp@philau.edu or call 215-951-2850.