Leonard Bess

Background

About Leonard Bess

Prof. L. Louis Bess is the former International Program Chair of the Fashion Design department at SUNY Korea in Songdo, South Korea. He is also the former Director for SUNY Korea - FIT Programs. Professor Bess is the former Chairperson for the prestigious Fashion Design Department at the Fashion Institute of Technology and the first African American to Chair this distinguished department. His responsibilities included managing day-to-day operations, developing and implementing the department's overall strategy and developing strategic partnerships and funding. Professor Bess is an international consultant who has worked with industry professionals, students and teachers for over 30 years. Recognized for his humorous and practical presentations, his energetic sessions leave teachers revitalized and eager to implement his shared ideas and learning experiences in their own classrooms. Professor Bess is a CAD specialist in Gerber AccuMark, Gerber WebPDM and Lectra Modaris systems. He pioneered simulation based learning at the Institute and developed the first interactive computer simulation representing the creative process used by apparel designers. Never satisfied and always seeking innovative approaches to teaching, Professor Bess created the cross lecturing approach and RSI (Relatively Simple Instruction sets) a rule based approach to teaching. His CSSIL (Case Study, Simulation and Immersive Learning) course is one of the most sought after courses in the department. Professor Bess earned his degree in fashion design from FIT and holds a degree in Organizational Communications. Prior to joining F.I.T, he worked for such noted design houses as Christian Dior NY, John Anthony and J.G. Hook. He is the Founder and Chairman of Alexändre Montgomery Bess et cie, Ltd. design consulting and advisory services and the publisher of the Midesex Report, a strategic publication for apparel designers. Professor Bess is most noted for having Fingerspitzengefühl a German word meaning a synthesis of intuition, creativity and judgment in the tips of the fingers. It is said that Professor Bess’ mind is a warehouse of information on the business of fashion. Specialties: CAD CAM specialist:* Gerber AccuMark * Gerber WebPDM * Lectra Modaris systems.* Certified WebPDM Administrator * Apparel Computer Specialist certified to operate AccuMark Windows ‘95 * Apparel Computer Specialist certified to operate AM800 AWS File Server