Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds Receives Prestigious Stephen Shank Recognition for Teaching and Learning Excellence

May 2, 2025 – Atlanta, GA — Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds, widely known as “The Dean of Fashion,” has been honored with the esteemed Stephen Shank Recognition by Capella University for his significant contributions to learner success and his unwavering commitment to teaching and learning excellence. 

With over two decades of experience across the fashion, academic, and human resource sectors, Dr. Hammonds has consistently championed innovation and inclusivity in education and style. This latest honor acknowledges his dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders and creatives through mentorship, instruction, and thought leadership. 

In his dynamic career, Dr. Hammonds has worn many hats—serving as a journalist, editor, author, consultant, and fashion industry visionary. He is the founder of CAH & CO., a consultancy that advises global brands, institutions, and governments. He currently serves as the Fashion Editor for Upscale Magazine and previously contributed to Reader’s Digest, InStyle, Sheen Magazine, and Hers Magazine. 

Beyond his editorial and academic achievements, Dr. Hammonds is a passionate community leader. He sits on the boards of the St. Lucia Fashion Council and Startupbootcamp Fashiontech Milan, offering mentorship to startups and accelerator programs across the globe. 

This honor is one of many for Dr. Hammonds, who was previously named to Modern Luxury’s Men of Style List (2013), inducted into Alabama State University’s 50 Under 50 (2018), and recognized for his outstanding teaching in 2022 with the original Stephen Shank Award. 

“This recognition speaks to the importance of blending creativity, education, and service. I am deeply honored to receive this acknowledgment and remain committed to inspiring learners around the world,” said Dr. Hammonds. 

For media inquiries, please contact: An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC | L. Nelson| pr@aoagwllc.com 

Photo by Soul Focus Studios

Fashion in the Garden Summer Edition – A Celebration of Georgia Talent

For Immediate Release

We are excited to invite you to the annual Fashion in the Garden Summer Edition, an extraordinary event showcasing the brilliance of Georgia designers and creatives. This curated fashion presentation will feature an evening of live music, networking, shopping, and more.

Hosted by industry tastemakers Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds and Dr. Dionne Boyd—renowned for their work on the Neiman Marcus Black Designer Showcase, the Intercontinental Buckhead Fashion Show, and other prestigious events—this night promises to be unforgettable. Their expertise guarantees a standout showcase of the vibrant talent in our community.

Highlights include local influencers and celebrities modeling creations from top BIPOC designers and brands such as Dragon Perfumes, KeenaBela, Luwiza Moda, The Vanity Vegan Cosmetics, Junk by Joni, Rodrick Gilchrist, Cedric Brown, Vernell Washington, Beloved Dillard, and Brian David. Enjoy live music performances by Vince Roseborough, Deone D'Alessio, and Maria Raquel Thomas. Our title sponsor, Devon E. Hudson of State Farm, will also be supporting the event.

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, August 29th

• Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

• Venue: The Darwin Hotel, 585 Parkway Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30308

• Parking: Free parking available

VIP and General Admission tickets are available via the QR code or by visiting Eventbrite.

Join us for an evening of celebration, support, and community upliftment. We look forward to seeing you there!

Celebrate Excellence at the 2023 I Am Awards: Honoring Women Entrepreneurs

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Celebrate Excellence at the 2023 I Am Awards: Honoring Women Entrepreneurs

Oct 20, 2023 Atlanta, Ga — Hazel Simpson and Dania Robinson extend a warm invitation to join them at the 2023 I Am Awards. The awards ceremony will be held Nov 4, 2023, 4-7pm, at 286 Highway, Fayetteville, Georgia. 

The esteemed event will be hosted by Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds, a prominent figure in the world of fashion and academia. 

Established in 2014, The I Am Awards is an annual celebration honoring female entrepreneurs who embody diversity and inventive creativity in their respective realms of "femalepreneurship." Whether they're visual artists, authors, or salon owners, we take a moment to express our gratitude for the accomplishments, achievements, and unique journeys of each woman.

“The I Am Awards symbolize the strength, ambition, and success of women entrepreneurs who have demonstrated faith, confidence, and courage in turning an idea into a thriving business,” states Hazel Simpson. 

Your support is paramount in propelling our mission to instigate positive societal changes. Join us in this celebration of female entrepreneurship, and together, let's make a lasting impact.

For tickets, please visit: https://www.hazelvisions.com/2023iamawards

For press inquiries please contact:

An Officer and GentleWoman, LLC | L. Nelson | Pr@aoagwllc.com

For media passes, please fill out form on www.aoagwllc.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds Departs from NOIR Fashion Week, Continues to Uplift Brands and Shape the Fashion Industry

Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds, the acclaimed Fashion Business Consultant, Author, and Magazine Fashion Editor, has officially parted ways with NOIR Fashion Week as the organizations Chief Operating Officer. Despite this change, Dr. Hammonds remains committed to empowering and elevating the brand's presence within the fashion industry.

Known as "The Dean of Fashion," his multifaceted talents as a storyteller have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. With over two decades of experience spanning the realms of fashion, academia, and human resources, Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds continues to bring his unparalleled expertise to shape and inspire the future of the industry.

In addition to chairing global councils, Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds has established his consultancy, CAH & CO., where he provides expert guidance to brands, institutions, fashion weeks, and governments worldwide. With a remarkable career spanning various domains, Dr. Hammonds has authored five books that delve into the realms of fashion, style, and philanthropy.

As a seasoned editor and journalist, Dr. Hammonds possesses extensive experience in fashion, media, and academia. He has served as a fashion editor at Hers Magazine and Sheen Magazine, making significant contributions to renowned brands such as Reader's Digest and Instyle. Most notably, Dr. Hammonds has recently been appointed as the new Fashion Editor for Upscale magazine, further solidifying his editorial prowess.

Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds actively engages with the community through his involvement in various organizations. He currently holds a position on the board of the St. Lucia Fashion Council and serves on the Advisory Council for the Startupbootcamp Fashiontech Milan. Through these roles, he offers support to multiple startups and accelerator programs by providing mentoring, training, and valuable networking opportunities.

Recognized for his exceptional contributions, Dr. Hammonds has received several notable awards throughout his career. In 2013, he was named to the Modern Luxury Men of Style List, showcasing his influence and impact in the fashion industry. In 2018, he was honored with induction into the Alabama State University 50 Under 50. Furthermore, in 2022, he was the recipient of the prestigious Stephen Shank Award for teaching excellence, presented by Capella University.

 Though no longer affiliated with NOIR Fashion Week, Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds remains dedicated to uplifting the fashion brand while continuing to make significant contributions and shaping the industry as a whole. His departure from NOIR Fashion Week marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter, as he continues to inspire and empower through his consultancy, writing, editorial work, community engagement, and commitment to fostering innovation in the fashion world.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DR. COURTNEY A. HAMMONDS PRESENTS EXCLUSIVE RUNWAY SHOWCASE FOR KEENABELA AT THE ATLANTA WOMEN'S EXPO

Atlanta, GA 5/22/2023- Dr. Courtney A. Hammonds, recently orchestrated a captivating runway presentation for his client, Myriam Belasse, the proprietor of the esteemed luxury brand Keenabela. The highly anticipated event took place at the prestigious Atlanta Women's Expo, known for combining the finest shopping, engaging speakers, fabulous makeovers, and rejuvenation experiences, all tailored to provide the ultimate experience for women.

During the showcase, Myriam Belasse unveiled her capsule collection, which is set to make its official debut later this summer. Attendees were treated to an exclusive preview of the unreleased designs, highlighting Keenabela's commitment to delivering exquisite sleepwear, loungewear, and resort-wear. The brand, known for its premium and eco-friendly approach, has garnered global acclaim for its unwavering dedication to producing sleepwear and loungewear of the highest quality without compromising on sustainability.

Founded in Atlanta, Keenabela has established itself as a leading force in the industry, captivating audiences worldwide with its elevated style that effortlessly embodies femininity, naturalness, and sophistication. Every design is meticulously crafted with intention, ensuring that each detail contributes to the brand's signature aesthetic. Since its inception in 2020, Keenabela has maintained strict control over the design and manufacturing process, utilizing company-owned facilities and select production partners to ensure unparalleled excellence in the final product's look, fit, and feel.

The runway presentation boasted an impressive lineup of celebrity models, including Eshe Light, an original member of the two-time Grammy-winning group Arrested Development, as well as Alex P, Fitzroy Constantine, Bobby Lundy, and Akilah Love. Their presence added star power and further elevated the atmosphere, making the showcase an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

For more information about Keenabela and their remarkable journey, please visit their website at https://www.keenabela.com/our-story.

About the Ultimate Women's Expo:

The Ultimate Women's Expo stands as the nation's largest gathering for women, offering a unique blend of shopping, thought-provoking speakers, transformative makeovers, and rejuvenating experiences. Designed to cater to the diverse interests and desires of women, this event provides an unrivaled opportunity to indulge in the ultimate women's experience.

Press Contact:

Lorenda Nelson

An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC

pr@aoagwllc.com

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