In a spectacular display of industry solidarity and philanthropy, the Floor Covering Industry Foundation (FCIF) hosted its annual gala at New York's historic Gotham Hall on October 5, 2024. The black-tie event, which raised $300,000 for the foundation's charitable initiatives, honored three legendary figures whose contributions have shaped the flooring industry: Sy Cohen of Stanton Carpet, Dan Frierson of The Dixie Group, and Roger Marcus of American Biltrite.
Under the venue's stunning 3,000-square-foot stained-glass ceiling, industry leaders gathered to celebrate not just the achievements of the honorees, but also the FCIF's mission of supporting floor-covering industry employees facing catastrophic medical challenges. Charlie Dilks, FCIF's board chair, highlighted the foundation's expanding reach, noting that while most grant applications historically came from Northwest Georgia, the organization is now helping industry members across the country.
"They're a salesperson in St. Louis, an administrative person in Philadelphia, and that really means so much to the foundation," Dilks shared, emphasizing how increased awareness has enabled FCIF to assist more people in need.
The evening's spotlight shone on three distinguished leaders whose combined experience spans over 150 years in the flooring industry.
Sy Cohen, who transformed the high-end carpet market after founding Stanton Carpet in 1980, reflected on his journey with characteristic humility: "The true measure of a man's success is his family, and, wow, have I been blessed. One of the things you learn as life goes on—it's less about what you do and much more about who you do it with."
Dan Frierson, who has led The Dixie Group since 1980, spoke optimistically about both the industry's character and its future: "We're one of the few top industries that actually tries to take care of its own. I am convinced we're at the beginning of a cyclical upturn in growth that we're all going to enjoy in the next couple of years."
Roger Marcus, whose four-decade leadership at American Biltrite has driven numerous innovations, expressed his appreciation: "This industry is great. FCIF is a terrific organization and I thank everyone who had any involvement in making FCIF a success."
Founded in 1981, FCIF has established itself as a crucial safety net for industry professionals facing life-altering medical crises. The foundation, operating as a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit, provides direct grants for medical care and basic needs to those who have dedicated their careers to the floor covering industry.
The elegant evening at Gotham Hall, with its Classical Revival architecture and gilded details, provided a fitting backdrop for celebrating both individual achievement and collective compassion. The $300,000 raised will directly support the foundation's mission of helping industry families get back on their feet during their most challenging times.
There is still time for year-end giving. Those wishing to contribute to the FCIF's mission can make donations in honor of the evening's honorees at fcif.org/give.
