Meet our Founder
Dr. Courtney Hough
Dr. Courtney Hough (pronounced “how”) is a Detroit native, youth development expert, nonprofit executive, and upward mobility advocate committed to equipping the next generation with the social capital needed to thrive. As the Founder and CEO of Paramount Professionals Etiquette Academy, she leads culturally responsive programming designed to build confidence, leadership presence, and real-world readiness for young people ages 8–18.
Dr. Hough holds a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Oakland University, where her research focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. She brings over a decade of leadership experience across high-impact nonprofit organizations, with a proven track record in youth workforce development, fund development, corporate engagement, and community-based programming.
Throughout her career, Dr. Hough has designed and led large-scale youth initiatives that connect education to employment pathways. She has hired and managed hundreds of high school students through workforce development programs, developed leadership and entrepreneurship experiences for youth, and built strategic partnerships with schools, corporations, and community organizations to expand access and opportunity. Her work is grounded in both data and lived experience—understanding that exposure, confidence, and access to networks are critical drivers of long-term success.
In addition to her work in youth development, Dr. Hough is a sought-after public speaker and facilitator. She presents nationally on topics including workplace wellness, leadership sustainability, and navigating evolving diversity, equity, and inclusion landscapes. Her expertise is rooted in both her doctoral research and executive leadership experience. She recently facilitated a workshop at the 44th Annual Women of Color Task Force Career Conference at the University of Michigan, where she led conversations on workplace wellness, identity, and career navigation for women of color.
A civic leader and longtime community advocate, Dr. Hough brings an affirming, research-informed, and real-world approach to her work—bridging youth development, leadership, and community impact to create lasting change.
