Sutton Stracke ’93 Takes Center Stage Again at Converse
Written by Amanda Mathis
Coming home to Converse, Sutton Stracke joined many of her classmates and the Converse College for Women (CCW) for our 5th annual Women’s Leadership Speaker Series Event on March 6, 2026, in celebration of International Women’s Day. This event is hosted by the CCW and supports Converse’s commitment to exploring and bolstering women’s representation and experiences.
“Each time a Converse alum returns to campus, it is inspiring, and we are grateful to Sutton for sharing so generously her time, ideas, and care for our current students,” said Dr. Chandra Owenby Hopkins, Dean of Converse College for Women.
Sutton is a global advocate for fashion sustainability and a successful entrepreneur. Converse alumni from all classes, along with community members, joined current students to learn more about Sutton’s passion for circular fashion and its role in minimizing the environmental impact of the fashion industry.
“The fashion industry is considered the world’s second-largest polluter,” said Sutton. “I love clothes! I no longer want to be a part of the problem; instead, I want to be part of the solution.”
A dancer-turned-fundraiser-turned-Beverly Hills-based-entrepreneur, Sutton’s television work with BRAVO is not her first time on stage. She left her home in Augusta, GA, to pursue a Political Science major at Converse and continue her dance career. She aspired to become a professional dancer and worked as the associate director of development, in charge of fundraising, for the Merce Cunningham Dance Foundation in New York, and later as the executive director of the Augusta Ballet. She previously served on the board of American Ballet Theatre.
“Sutton shared advice to current students – to never lose their passion, to hold onto their work, and to keep going no matter what.”
Dr. Chandra Owenby Hopkins
Her passion for sustainable fashion and cunning entrepreneurial skills are exhibited in her many ventures. She is the co-founder of SuttonBrands.com, a Circular Fashion House dedicated to repurposing excess inventory, and the founder of her own lifestyle brand, Sutton Green Label. Additionally, she founded SUTTON, an exclusively online boutique that sells couture clothing and home decor, which has quickly gained popularity.
“It was inspiring to hear how Sutton’s time at Converse shaped her path,” said Dr. Hopkins. “Sutton shared advice to current students – to never lose their passion, to hold onto their work, and to keep going no matter what – and that kind of truth is encouraging as it empowers the next generation of Converse leaders.”
Sutton balances work and family life that includes her three children – Porter, Phillip, and James – and travels between her two homes in Beverly Hills and Augusta. To learn more about SUTTON brands and her environmental advocacy, visit her website.