The BFA and MFA programs are taught by a fashion team led by director Gladys Perint Palmer, a working fashion illustrator/writer for editorial publications such as the London Sunday Times, Talk Magazine, The New Yorker; and drawing for clients Christian Dior, Missoni and Versace.

Sharon Murphy’s career in the fashion industry includes management positions in sourcing, manufacturing, product development and fashion retailing. Sharon has worked for Esprit de Corp both on a domestic and international level as well as for Jessica McClintock, Inc., with a focus on development of fabrics for contemporary, junior, and children’s markets.

Ms. Murphy joined the Academy as an instructor in 2001, and continues to consult with Venice Collaborative to source textiles and related materials for architects and builders of residential projects.

Ellen Sears has experience in store operations, merchandising, profitability improvement and team building at such companies as Macy's, Burberry, The Limited and Jones Apparel Group. She joined the School of Fashion in 2007 as a MFA and BFA management instructor. Her new role will help strengthen the global reach of online education. She is a graduate of the University of California at Los Angeles.