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!

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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Fashion Group International Atlanta Announces Raquel Riley Thomas as New Executive Board Member.

Fashion Group International Atlanta Announces Raquel Riley Thomas as New Executive Board Member.

Atlanta, Ga., Oct 4, 2022—Fashion Group International of Atlanta (FGIATL) announced that Raquel Riley Thomas has been named as Public Relations Chair. Mrs Thomas’ appointment to FGIATL Executive Board will commence in early October 2022. 

Raquel has more than 30 years of senior media experience, including almost a decade of military service. Raquel is a decorated military veteran, having served nine years in the U.S. Army (5-years Enlisted photojournalist; 4-years Ordnance Officer Captain). She is now inducted into the Library of Congress for her service work. In 2011, Raquel founded An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC, a media and entertainment company with divisions in talent management, brand management, public relations and production services. 

“I am very excited to be joining the FGIATL team,” said Raquel Riley Thomas. “I believe FGIATL has a great business model and a talented executive team. FGIATL is uniquely positioned to capitalize on the changing beauty and fashion environment and help members efficiently maximize their networks.”

Raquel graduated from the Defense Information School (DINFOS). She graduated as a Distinguished Military Graduate from the Reserve Officer Training Corps at Hampton University. She simultaneously graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She also has a Mastery of Negotiation certification from Harvard University.

“Raquel is the right person for the Public Relations Chair,'' states Nancy Flagherty, FGI Atlanta Regional Director.  “Raquel’s extensive military background and public relations skills will help FGIATL strengthen partnerships, develop strategic alliances and expand our international presence,” states Nancy Flaherty, the Regional Director of FGIATL. 

“When I took office in November 2021, it was evident to me that Atlanta has such a diverse community in the beauty and fashion industry and I made it my mission to be inclusive with our membership. Representing our wide range of cultures and style, I wanted to make sure that everyone had an opportunity to be seen and heard. FGIATL is a networking community and all are welcome,” continues Flaherty.

 About Fashion Group International

The Fashion Group International is a global, professional organization with thousands of members in the fashion industry including apparel, accessories, beauty and home. The idea for Fashion Group, was conceived at an informal luncheon with 17 women in 1928, became a formal organization in 1930. Founding members included Edna Woolman Chase (Editor-in-Chief of Vogue), Elizabeth Arden (Founder of Elizabeth Arden, Inc and Elenor Roosevelt (First lady of the United States from 1933 to 1945)

About Fashion Group International Atlanta

Fashion Group International Atlanta is a networking membership designed for professionals actively involved in fashion and related industries. Retail Owners & Buyers, Fashion Manufacturers, Fashion Educators, Beauty Distributors, Fashion Designers, Fashion Stylists, PR/Marketing Executives, Magazine Publishers, Home Decor/Interior Designers, Event Planners, Real Estate Professionals, Entrepreneurs and Students are just a sampling of the members who benefit from an FGI Atlanta membership.

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