Meet the Team — Visionaries Behind (DE-FI)

Emma supports (DE-FI)’s Dayton and Cincinnati fashion programs, coordinating logistics for runway events, incubator sessions, and community initiatives. She helps connect Midwest designers with opportunities for growth and exposure as our Graphic Design  & Fashion Intern, where she’ll be focusing on the layout and design of (DE-FI)ance Magazine, (PARENTHETICALLY) Speaking Newsletter, and  Cincinnati & Dayton Threads Boutique. 

Based  in New Bremen, Ohio, Emma is entering her final semester at Edison State Community College, pursuing a degree in Graphic Design. She’s also  a proud 2024 graduate of Hocking College, where she earned her associate degree in Fashion Design and Retail Merchandising. 

Emma  is no stranger to (DE-FI), she’s been part of the #DatDEFIFam for several years through our partnership with Hocking College. She’s also the owner of Sprouting Positivity, an online boutique that she plans to expand into a physical storefront by June 2025. Outside of her  growing business, Emma enjoys sewing, crocheting, and hands-on creative  projects. 

And #RumorHasIt pieces from her own fashion line may be featured in the  Cincinnati and Dayton Threads Boutique & Showroom which relaunches  in September during (DE-FI) Fashion Week! 

Sandra Bowden, known by her brand name IMI,  mentors emerging talent in (DE-FI)’s Fashion Incubator, guiding designers through brand building, production planning, and market preparation. Her work strengthens Midwest fashion entrepreneurship and creative sustainability. She is a force of creativity and resilience who has re(DE-FI)ned what it means to follow your passion. As a fashion designer, pattern maker, artist, and home stager, Sandra is the visionary behind Other by IMI, a boutique and studio in downtown Fairborn offering shoes, clothes, custom design services, styling, art, alterations, and home staging.

Sandra’s journey to success is anything but conventional.  Armed with a BFA in Fashion Design and over 15 years of industry experience, she spent 25 years working in the food industry to pay the bills, keeping her passion for fashion as a side hustle. In 2018, she made a bold decision to bet on herself, leaving behind restaurant culture to make her art and design her full-time career, a choice she proudly calls the best decision of her life.

Since then, Sandra has flourished. After six years of growing her business from home, she opened Other by IMI in April 2023, a space where her creative vision comes to life. Open Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m., the boutique is a hub of innovation, offering  everything from unique fashion pieces to curated home staging solutions.

Sandra’s work is as diverse as her talents. From alterations and custom clothing to window displays and fashion shows, she approaches every project with precision and artistry. Her boutique is a testament to her multifaceted expertise, featuring not only her designs but also shoes, accessories, and artwork that reflect her distinctive style.

A partner of the (DE-FI), Sandra is actively expanding her business while staying booked months in advance. She excels at managing an extensive array of offerings, including trade shows, fairs, annual events, website development, marketing, and more. Her ability to seamlessly blend artistry with entrepreneurship has made her a standout in the fashion and creative industries.

Sandra’s story is one of transformation and (DE-FI)ance. She took a leap of faith, leaving behind a stable career to pursue her dreams, and she hasn’t looked back. With her sights set on continued growth and innovation, Sandra Bowden is proving that it’s never too late to follow your passion and build the life you’ve always envisioned.

Known as “The brand. The voice.,” Elliot Carlyle doesn’t follow trends, he (DE-FI)nes the future. A powerhouse creative consultant and innovation strategist, he’s re(DE-FI)ning industries across fashion, entertainment, lifestyle, jewelry, and sports. Elliot is not here for the status quo, he’s here for the bold, the overlooked, and the ones ready to build something real. 

And now, he’s bringing that energy to Dayton and Cincinnati's fashion community.

As a trusted advisor for what will be Dayton’s first-ever fashion design school, Elliot, is helping shape a once-in-a-generation moment that will permanently alter the trajectory of our city. His leadership is more than symbolic, it’s structural. This is about creating a fashion infrastructure, not just a school. One rooted in innovation, entrepreneurship, and legacy. 

The Visionary Behind CFDA Connects & CURRENT•LY™ GLOBAL INC.

Elliot’s legacy speaks volumes. As the creator of CFDA Connects,  he spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative that united regional fashion  organizations with global resources, uplifting overlooked communities  and establishing a national platform for talent that would’ve otherwise  gone unseen. 

As the founder of CURRENT•LY™ Global, Inc., Elliot leads an international strategy agency that helps brands not just grow—but evolve. He builds movements, fosters legacy, and ensures that every story told is one that matters.

CURRENT•LY™ Global, Inc. Powers:
✔ Fashion
✔ Entertainment
✔ Lifestyle
✔ Jewelry
✔ Sports

A Monumental Moment for Dayton’s History and Future

With Elliot’s insight, (DE-FI) Global INC isn’t just launching a fashion school, we’re creating a cultural, economic, and educational milestone. This school will serve as a launchpad for future designers, engineers, and creatives, bringing career pathways, economic opportunity, and national visibility to Southwest Ohio like never before.

Elliot Carlyle is a force and his involvement in Dayton is nothing short of monumental.

 Edward A. Dixon is a Dayton native and cultural connector, weaving entrepreneurship and visual art into impactful creative experiences. As founder of the Edward A. Dixon Gallery in downtown Dayton, he merges global artistry with local access. His leadership enriches (DE‑FI)’s mission to elevate the humanities and creative infrastructure of Dayton, Cincinnati, and beyond making the Midwest a hub for fashion and art innovation.

A lifelong art enthusiast, is a disruptor in the art world who blends entrepreneurial vision with a passion for connecting people through visual creativity. In 2017, Ed launched the Edward A. Dixon Gallery in downtown Dayton, Ohio, creating a space where global artistry meets local accessibility.

Before founding the gallery, Ed’s entrepreneurial journey spanned the music, film, and fashion industries. However, his deep love for visual art drove him to curate pieces from artists worldwide, showcasing their talent in dynamic, thought-provoking exhibitions. The gallery has hosted works by renowned artists like Sabrina Terence, Ronnie Williams, Erica Arntz, and the late Ron Campbell, animator for the legendary Beatles.

Ed is known for exhibitions that challenge perspectives, spark dialogue, and bring joy. Shows like We Are Doing It All Wrong and Joy, That’s Just What I Needed exemplify his ability to craft meaningful and transformative art experiences. His vision goes beyond curation, he’s created a gallery environment that’s inviting to everyone, from seasoned collectors to those exploring art for the first time.

A leader in the art community, Ed has served on judging panels for prestigious exhibitions and grants, including the Art of Soul Juried Art Show and the Culture Works Special Projects Grant. His involvement with the 8/4 Memorial Committee demonstrates his commitment to using art as a tool for healing and remembrance, honoring the lives lost in the tragic 2019 Dayton mass shooting.

Ed’s influence extends beyond his gallery walls. He serves on the Dayton Art Institute’s Collections Committee and the Executive Committee for the Dayton Sister City Committee, strengthening cultural connections at home and abroad. As an advisory board member for the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator, Ed supports the next generation of creative talent.

Never one to stand still, Ed is also a licensed realtor, a passionate investor, and a travel blogger who shares his unique perspective on the world. His ventures reflect his commitment to exploring, creating, and investing in opportunities that inspire connection and growth.

At the heart of Ed’s work is a mission to make art accessible and engaging for all. Through bold exhibitions, strategic collaborations, and entrepreneurial flair, Edward A. Dixon is not just a gallery owner, he’s a visionary shaping how communities experience and connect with art.

As the Academic Dean & Chair, Design Department at the Wisconsin based Edessa School of Fashion,

Lynne R. Dixon-Speller is an accomplished academic leader and designer with more than three decades of experience shaping the next generation of creative professionals. She holds both a Master of Science in Textiles and Clothing (1982) and a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design and Architectural Planning (1980) from Western Kentucky University.

Over her 31-year career in higher education, Lynne has served as an Assistant Professor, Instructor, Department Chair, and Interim Campus Director and Academic Dean. Her expertise spans curriculum development, academic governance, and student mentorship—ensuring excellence at every stage of the educational experience.

As a Founding Partner of the Edessa Dayton Initiative, Lynne is collaborating with (DE-FI) Global INC to launch Dayton’s first fashion design school, combining design education with industry-relevant innovation, sustainability, and career-driven outcomes that prepare students to lead in the evolving world of fashion.

John Flynn is (DE-FI)’s e-commerce and fashion photographer, creating conversion-ready product images and brand visuals for Dayton, Cincinnati, and Midwest designers. From crisp catalog and on-figure e-com to editorial lookbooks, he delivers consistent lighting, color accuracy, and platform-optimized assets for Shopify, Amazon, and marketplaces. His work bridges runway to retail, turning creative vision into sales-driving content across web, social, and paid media. 

John is not just a photographer, he’s a storyteller, a creator, and a rebel against the conventional. From the moment he picked up his first camera at the age of 10, John became captivated by the art of photography and the tools that bring images to life. Today, as the owner of Cloverstorm Photography, he is known for crafting visuals that are as authentic as they are striking.

John’s philosophy is rooted in defying societal standards of perfection. His goal is never to make his subjects look flawless but to make them look like the best versions of themselves—real, unique, and unapologetically true. By focusing on personality and character, John ensures every image carries the soul of its subject, rejecting the cookie-cutter ideals that strip individuality from the art of photography.

With a career that spans retail, brick-and-mortar business, and e-commerce, John brings a multifaceted perspective to his craft. He is a skilled manager and creative professional, proficient in tools like the Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, WordPress, and more. His technical expertise is matched by his artistic vision, making him a standout in both the artistic and commercial worlds.

John’s work has earned international acclaim, particularly in the competitive dance and pageant circuits, where his ability to capture movement, emotion, and authenticity has made him a sought-after name. His photography doesn’t just capture moments—it tells stories, celebrates individuality, and creates connections.

Through Cloverstorm Photography, John Flynn continues to disrupt traditional notions of beauty and artistry. With an unwavering focus on character and a bold approach to his craft, he is reshaping what it means to be seen, and remembered, in the modern world.

Cindy Gaboury is a visionary leader and community powerhouse with over four decades of entrepreneurial success and unwavering commitment to positive change in Dayton and Cincinnati. As the co-founder of Audio Etc. in Centerville, Ohio, alongside her husband Kirby, Cindy has spent 40 years re(DE-FI)ning excellence in business and building connections that strengthen the community.

Affectionately known as “Mama Joy” within #DatDEFIFam, Cindy is a beacon of encouragement and inspiration. Her nurturing spirit, combined with her bold leadership, has made her a beloved mentor to countless individuals pursuing their dreams in business, faith, fashion, and beyond.

A trailblazer in her own right, Cindy’s influence extends far beyond the walls of her business. She serves on the boards of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce, Kettering, Moraine, and Oakwood Chamber, Women in Business Networking (WiBN), Women in Christian Leadership, and the Dayton Emerging Fashion Incubator. Her relentless dedication to collaboration and innovation has made her an indispensable force for growth and transformation.

Cindy’s work reflects her deep-rooted belief in uplifting others, particularly women and underserved communities. As a member of organizations like the Centerville Noon Optimists, Home Builders Association, and Beavercreek Women’s League, she consistently brings people together to foster empowerment, education, and opportunity.

Her achievements are as bold as her approach. In 2022, Cindy was named one of Ohio’s Top 500 Most Influential Executives and received the Lydia Leadership Award from Women in Christian Leadership. In October 2023, she was honored with the Better Business Bureau Women in Business Networking Career Achievement Award, a testament to her enduring impact and leadership.

At her core, Cindy is a disruptor who challenges the status quo, combining entrepreneurial savvy with a passion for community growth. Whether she’s advocating for local businesses, mentoring future leaders, or driving innovation at (DE-FI), Cindy Gaboury "Mama Joy", is a force for (DE-FI)ance, determination, and positive change.

As the Multimedia Specialists for the Wisconsin based Edessa School of Fashion, Leonardt Horäk is a multidisciplinary creative and founding partner of the Edessa Dayton Initiative, working in collaboration with (DE-FI) Global INC to establish Dayton’s first fashion design school. A graduate of Cardinal Stritch University with a Bachelor of Arts (2023), he brings a cross-cultural and multimedia approach to the intersection of art, fashion, and technology.

Fluent in three languages, Leonardt integrates global perspectives into his creative process, blending digital innovation with traditional artistic techniques. With three years of experience in multimedia art, he represents the new generation of creators shaping the future of design education where artistry, inclusivity, and innovation converge.

Nani  trains aspiring and professional models through DE-FI’s Model Incubator, focusing on runway technique, commercial presence, and industry professionalism. She helps prepare Dayton and Cincinnati models for national opportunities. Creative director and Community organizer. Connector of nearly 200 creatives. Since launching DonDaDa Collective in late 2024, Nani Montanez has been on a mission to do more than just create art, she’s building space for it to matter. What started as a passion project has quickly grown into one of Dayton’s most impactful creative networks, rooted in healing, access, and community-led transformation.

With a background in modeling, dance, and acting dating back to 2016 in Milwaukee, Nani brings a multi-disciplinary edge to everything she touches. Through DonDaDa, she leads free portfolio-building workshops, coaches emerging talent, and is preparing to launch her first concept runway experience + industry panel, all designed to open doors for others, not just herself.

At the core of Nani’s work is a belief that creativity is a form of care, and that with the right resources, art can provide purpose, protection, and a path forward. She’s building more than platforms, she’s helping us to extend and build pipelines: for mentorship, for charitable giving, and for long-term success in an industry that too often overlooks the most powerful voices.

Now serving as a Model Coordinator for (DE-FI), Nani is bringing that same energy to our runways and incubator. She’s not just here to work, she’s here to listen, learn, and lead, pushing the culture forward while staying grounded in purpose. We’re proud to have her as part of the movement. 

As the President f the Wisconsin based Edessa School of Fashion,  

President, Edessa School of Fashion

Jeffrey M. Speller brings over three decades of expertise in electrical engineering, robotics, operations management, and executive leadership to his role as President of the Edessa School of Fashion. With an M.B.A. from Cardinal Stritch University and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Tennessee State University, he has held senior-level management positions for more than 17 years within Fortune 500 companies, where he honed his skills in strategic operations, HR, and compliance.

As the driving force behind the Edessa Dayton Initiative, Jeffrey is partnering with (DE-FI) Global INC to establish Dayton’s first fashion design school, uniting education, innovation, and workforce development to strengthen Ohio’s creative economy and technical fashion infrastructure. His cross-disciplinary background bridges engineering precision with entrepreneurial vision, laying the foundation for the next generation of fashion and design professionals.