Skip to content

THE STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP

Our leadership is a collective of visionaries who understand that creativity is the most vital tool for human resilience. The Board of The Fashion Community (TFC) serves as our strategic and advisory compass, ensuring that every initiative we launch—from workforce training to sustainable design—is built on a foundation of professional excellence and radical empathy.

These individuals bring decades of experience from global markets and local grassroots alike. They are the guardians of our mission, providing the high-level guidance that allows our 'Back Door' rebellion to scale its impact across Central Ohio. Meet the minds behind the movement.




Our Board of Trustees

Our Board of Trustees brings together diverse expertise in nonprofit governance, community building, financial stewardship, and systems thinking—all united by a shared commitment to circular fashion and youth empowerment. Under the guidance of Board Chair and President Adessa Eskridge, our trustees provide strategic oversight that ensures The Fashion Community operates with integrity, sustainability, and impact. We are deeply grateful for their time, wisdom, and unwavering belief in what's possible when community work together.

Board of Trustees:

  • Adessa Eskridge, Board Chair and President
  • Eleanor Harris, Vice President
  • Shanda McJunkins, Board Treasurer
  • Nancy Smeltzer, Board Secretary
  • Katelyn Kelley, Governance Chair
  • Mimi Wang, Systems Chair

Board of Advisors:

  • Jason Blair, Agents of Change

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES & ADVISORS

ELEANOR HARRIS, FASHION COMMUNITY BOARD MEMBER
Katelyn Kelley, Fashion Community Board Member

THERE IS A SEAT AT OUR TABLE

We don't just make clothes; we transform lives through fashion. Our In-House collective is a family of makers, mentors, and students who believe in the radical power of the second chance. If you have the grit to turn waste into wonder, drop your email here to be the first to know when we open the studio doors for new hands.

JOIN US!

Let's connect.

Hello@ColumbusFashionAcademy.com

Studio: 122 N. Grant Avenue, Columbus OH 43215

Mailing: 2049 Builders Place, Columbus OH 43204

Compare products

{"one"=>"Select 2 or 3 items to compare", "other"=>"{{ count }} of 3 items selected"}

Select first item to compare

Select second item to compare

Select third item to compare

Compare