An evening of style, substance, and a commitment to a greener future, the 10th Annual Ecolution Fashion Gala transformed the Carnegie Museum into a celebration of eco-conscious elegance. Visionary designers stunned with couture creations crafted from recycled materials, textiles, and discarded fabrics, proving that sustainability and high fashion are not mutually exclusive, but beautifully aligned.

In a first for the Gala, the Model Citizen Award honored not one, but three remarkable individuals whose leadership continues to shape a more sustainable future. Amid herbaceous cocktails and electrifying live performances, we celebrated Justine Russo, Taki Darakos, and Jim Maug of PITT OHIO, trailblazers whose dedication spans business, community, and culture. Together, they embody a powerful truth: sustainability isn’t just a practice. It’s a way of life.

Curated by Brian David, styled by Izzazu Salon, Spa & Blowout Bar, and produced by The Green Voice Collective, Ecolution marked a milestone in Pittsburgh’s sustainable fashion movement.

As we look ahead to our 11th year in 2026, the future of fashion, and the planet, has never looked more inspired.

• Barb Grossman

• Beth Shari

• Bradford Mumpower

• Brandy Wank

• Brian David

• Cathy Trostle-Olivar

• Christine CMC Bethea

• Eva Dixon

• Imani Batts

• Jaka Zakajinn

• James Houk

• Lana Neumeyer

• Laura Luzier 

• Leesa Kassler

• Linda Lacek

• Michael Nolan Kouri

• Michelle Schoenhardt

• Mila M. Muchnok

• Mossy Lane

• Olesya Nova

• Patty Gallagher

• Randel Miller

• Roberta Weissburg

• Sidney Rice

• Suz Pisano

• Virginia Nicoll-Hernandez

As the Director of Sustainability and Business Intelligence for PITT OHIO, Justine Russo is on the front line of PITT OHIO’s award-winning sustainability programs. Her responsibilities include heading the cross-functional Steering Committee, implementing the company’s carbon calculator, and reporting on actionable sustainability metrics. Russo served on Sustainable Pittsburgh’s Board of Directors from 2017-2022 and was named Board President during her tenure.

As part of her role at PITT OHIO, Justine also develops data-driven solutions, delivering analysis and tools that leverage information from throughout the PITT OHIO organization, with a concentration on customer, marketing, and sales analytics. 

Justine graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with an MBA and a BS in Civil Engineering.

Taki Darakos joined Pitt Ohio in 2019 as the Vice President of Vehicle Maintenance and Fleet Services. He and his team are responsible for supporting PITT OHIO in all fleet related equipment activities. These include managing the fleet life cycle from specification, procurement, maintenance and licensing through disposal.

Mr. Darakos has been in the transportation industry for 24 years. Mr. Darakos earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Pittsburgh. He is a veteran of the US Army and a graduate of Leadership Pittsburgh. He is a member and active participant of the American Trucking Association (ATA) Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC) and serves on the board of The Education Partnership.

In his spare time he enjoys spending time with his family, as well as reading a new book or gardening.  

Jim has accumulated over 42 years of experience in the construction industry, consistently pursuing innovations and efficiencies with a focus on sustainability. He holds a degree in Construction Technology and has been employed at PITT OHIO for 25 years. In alignment with the company's ownership, Jim promotes the construction and maintenance of buildings that are environmentally responsible, efficient, and conducive to a healthy work environment. Throughout his career, he has overseen the construction and remodeling of LEED Certified and Energy Efficient buildings, including 100% solar-efficient properties and multiple LEED facilities, achieving GOLD level certification.

A prominent figure in the Pittsburgh fashion scene

A designer with a passion for Red Carpet and vintage-inspired evening wear, Brian David has built a legacy of luxury and perfection. His unwavering dedication to traditional and "couture" techniques has earned him a distinct reputation.

From exquisite Evening Wear to Bridal masterpieces and custom alterations, Brian David's designs redefine elegance and sophistication.

At the 2024 Ecolution Fashion Gala Brian unveiled a one-of-a-kind custom couture creation. Utilizing the recycled red velvet fabric from the iconic Carnegie Music Hall, Brian created a jaw-dropping couture gown and presented it alongside fellow local designers.

Donated by Michael Volpatt via Carnegie Museum and Volpatt Construction.

Produced by The Green Voice Collective