Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds
Visionary. Educator. Storyteller.

Affectionately known as “The Dean of Fashion,” Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds is a globally recognized educator, fashion authority, and cultural strategist. Rooted in academia, luxury retail, and fashion media, he brings a sharp eye and a purposeful voice to the evolving intersection of fashion, culture, and education.

Leadership at the Intersection of Fashion, Education & Human Capital

From classrooms to couture, Dr. Hammonds leads with clarity and conviction. He began his career as a special education teacher before transitioning into the fashion industry. As Operations Manager at URUP Designs, he refined luxury retail strategy and client experience. At Neiman Marcus Atlanta, he advanced talent development and fostered a strong workplace culture as Assistant HR Manager.

In academia, he launched the first BFA in Fashion Design at The Art Institute of Atlanta, secured SACS accreditation, and revamped the marketing curriculum. He supports national initiatives including Obama-era community college programs and NYFW student showcases. Currently, he teaches business and human resources at Capella University and Georgia Military College.

Global Impact & Industry Influence

As Global Fashion Ambassador for the St. Lucia Fashion Council, Dr. Hammonds mentors emerging talent and drives industry growth. His expertise is featured on international platforms like Milan’s Startupbootcamp FashionTech and the Miss Universe St. Lucia Organization.

Through his firm, CAH & Co., he advises brands, nonprofits, and institutions on strategy, talent engagement, creative direction, and curriculum innovation.

Editorial Storytelling & Cultural Commentary

As Senior Fashion Editor at Upscale magazine, Dr. Hammonds transforms fashion trends into compelling cultural narratives. His editorial contributions have been featured in GQ, InStyle, Reader’s Digest, WWD, HERS, Sheen, and more. Over the course of his career, he has collaborated with industry luminaries such as acclaimed designer Mimi Plange; supermodel EMME; Project Runway alum and the late Mychael Knight; Clare Waight Keller, former Artistic Director of Givenchy; and Nicolas Ghesquière, former Artistic Director of Louis Vuitton. His expert insights have been featured on NPR, CBS, NBC, and FOX, cementing his reputation as a leading voice in fashion media.

From early blogging with Project Runway, to his role in the documentary The South Got Something to Say and co-creating the fragrance HERE with Dragon Perfumes (praised by Glamour, GQ, and Condé Nast Traveler), he continues to shape fashion’s evolving story.

Philanthropy, Recognition & Legacy

Committed to mentorship and inclusion, Dr. Hammonds co-produced Fashion Uncorked, a design competition supporting Easter Seals North Georgia. A proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., his legacy is defined by achievement, empowered lives, and expanded opportunities for future generations.

Honors & Awards

• Stephen Shank Award for Teaching Excellence
  Capella University | 2025, 2022

• Master of Ceremonies
  Miss Universe St. Lucia Pageant | 2024

• President’s Volunteer Service Award
  Presented by President Joe Biden | 2023

• Media Contributor
  71st Miss Universe Pageant | 2023

• 50 Under 50 Honoree
  Alabama State University | 2018

• Men of Style Honoree
  Modern Luxury Atlanta | 2013

Academic Credentials

• Doctor of Business Administration — Argosy University

• MBA — Keller Graduate School of Management

• B.S. in Education — Alabama State University