When you picture the dean of a major postsecondary institution, you may think of a buttoned-up educator wearing some sort of stiff suit. But at the Parsons School of Design in New York City, Dr. Ben Barry is doing things a little differently—both in terms of personal style and the school’s new curriculum for students.

Having recently joined Parsosn as dean in July 2021, Barry is often found on campus wearing bold, vibrant looks that are designed by some of his emerging design students. He will sport a beaded Jontay Kahm top here, or a colorful Jacques Agbobly knit there. “I’ve always understood the power fashion has—it can make every day magical, just by what you put on your body,” says Barry of his statement style. “I have such deep appreciation for the craft and the work and that goes into it.”