New York-based real estate developer, civic leader, and philanthropist George Kaufman and his wife Mariana were honored by the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) on September 25 in recognition of their $4 million gift, which transformed a former book bindery and office building into a 320,000 s/f residence for FIT students. Kaufman was also acknowledged for the vital role he played in the acquisition and development of the building. The George S. and Mariana Kaufman Residence Hall is located at 406 West 31st St. Kaufman is the owner and president of Kaufman Astoria Studios, and is the president and chief operating officer of the Kaufman Organization.