Photo credit: Amelia Jackson

About Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds

The Dean of Fashion™ | Educator | Strategist | Culture Shaper

Step into the world of Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds—where style meets scholarship and leadership is stitched with purpose. Affectionately known as The Dean of Fashion, he is a dynamic voice at the crossroads of fashion, education, and culture, shaping lasting impact across industries, not just trends.

A Journey Tailored for Impact

From his early career as a special education teacher to managing HR at Neiman Marcus Atlanta, Dr. Hammonds has always championed purpose-driven leadership. As Academic Program Director at The Art Institute of Atlanta, he launched the first BFA in Fashion Design and secured full SACS accreditation. His curriculum work and contributions to Obama-era workforce initiatives earned national recognition.

Today, he serves as a professor of business and human resources at Capella University and Georgia Military College. Through his boutique consulting firm, CAH & Co., he advises organizations, nonprofits, and brands on talent engagement, brand storytelling, and curriculum innovation.

A Global Voice in Fashion

Dr. Hammonds is Global Fashion Ambassador for the St. Lucia Fashion Council and mentors emerging designers via Startupbootcamp FashionTech in Milan. He has hosted the Miss Universe St. Lucia Pageant and curated fashion initiatives across Europe and the Caribbean, spotlighting rising talent on international stages.

As Senior Fashion Editor at Upscale Magazine, he leads fashion storytelling while his editorial voice has also appeared in InStyle, WWD, GQ, HERS, Reader’s Digest, Sheen, NPR, CBS, FOX, and more. From early blogging with Project Runway talent to co-creating the gender-inclusive fragrance HERE with Dragon Perfumes—hailed by Glamour and Condé Nast Traveler—his storytelling elevates fashion as cultural commentary and advocacy. He has collaborated with industry legends including André Leon Talley, Mimi Plange, supermodel EMME, Mychael Knight, Clare Waight Keller, Tim Gunn, and Nicolas Ghesquière.

Educator. Builder. Change Agent.

With a Doctorate in Business Administration, an MBA, and a B.S. in Education, Dr. Hammonds merges academic rigor with creative vision. His work has earned:

  • Stephen Shank Award for Teaching Excellence (2025, 2022)

  • President’s Volunteer Service Award from President Joe Biden

  • Alabama State University’s 50 Under 50 list

  • Named “Man of Style” by Modern Luxury Atlanta

His true legacy lies in lifting others—empowering students, amplifying marginalized voices, and guiding organizations toward inclusive, sustainable futures.

A Platform for Purpose

“This isn’t just a platform—it’s a movement.”

Whether you’re a brand seeking direction, a student chasing purpose, a designer ready to disrupt, or a leader shaping the future—Dr. Hammonds created this space for you.

Welcome to fashion that speaks. Leadership that uplifts. And a vision built on purpose, heart, and impact.

Welcome to the world of Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds.