Women Who Do: Change in Action

More Than Just Fashion: Anne Klein's New York Women Who Do Awards Ceremony Celebrates Change-Making Women from Medicine to Media

In an exceptional ceremony held at the iconic Rainbow Room in New York City, Anne Klein hosted its 2026 Women Who Do Awards luncheon. Hosted by Sara Haines, the event was more than just a fashion show; it was a platform to honor a constellation of women who are leading change in diverse fields, from healthcare and beauty to philanthropy and media.

Honorees Who Made a Difference

The ceremony recognized prominent figures who embodied the brand's vision of "empowerment and purpose," including:

Dr. Karen Kostroff, Chief of Breast Surgery at Northwell Health, who used the platform to deliver an urgent medical message about the importance of regular screening for early cancer detection.

Martina Halloran, CEO of Dr. Hauschka, who emphasized the brand's "people before profit" philosophy.

Atoya Burleson: Founder of InsideLines, who spoke about the power of building a supportive women's community through her digital platform.

Tina Konacky and Carolyn Kelly Rosen: The faces of the brand's new spring campaign, who blend the worlds of style and wellness.

The Anne Klein Legacy: From 1973 to Today

In his opening remarks, Jameel Spencer, Chief Marketing Officer of WHP Global (the brand's owner), reviewed Anne Klein's history as a pioneering figure who helped launch the careers of giants like Donna Karan. A symbolic moment came when legendary model Alpha Chin (who famously fought in the Battle of Versailles in 1973) was brought together with contemporary model Joan Smalls, a powerful demonstration of the continuity of generations within the house.

The Brand's Philosophy: Supporting Women in Every Battle

Caroline Kelly Rosen, Tina Konake, Dr. Karen Kostroff, Martina Halloran, and Sarah Haynes Atwe Burleson

Lynn Flynn, Executive Vice President of the company, affirmed that Anne Klein has always been a symbol of women who lead with confidence and ambition. She said, "We believe that fashion should support women as they navigate their lives, careers, and families." This sentiment was echoed by Alicia Worthington, who noted that the new campaign's faces were chosen to reflect "modern femininity," which blends beauty with wellness awareness.

The closing message: Honoree Caroline Rosen summarized the essence of the event, stating that while fashion and wellness may seem like two different worlds, they converge on the point of "self-confidence and self-expression," urging everyone to make health and happiness their top priority.