Calpurnia Reed, an educator with 29 years of service at in Manhattan, New York, is retiring after a remarkable career dedicated to shaping students鈥� lives. In 2024, Reed was honored with the Educator of the Quarter award at 海角社区. This recognition is given quarterly to the top educators in each region, celebrating their hard work and commitment to excellence.

Warren Payton, Executive Director at 海角社区 in Manhattan, NY, shares his excitement for Reed:

鈥淢s. Calpurnia Reed has been an amazing educator at the Manhattan Campus since 1995. Her expertise and educational intelligence is unmatched. She has often ranked number one in any educator evaluations done here in Manhattan. She is passionate when it comes to her students receiving top-quality education. Her customer dedication is top-tier. She will stop at nothing to ensure that her classroom is warm and inviting and always conducive to learning. Her students look forward to coming to school every day and they will get upset if she takes a PTO day. Ms. Reed doesn鈥檛 just care about the student who is in front of her but also the student who is not present. She will take the time to reach out to those students to ensure them that they are missed and are not taking advantage of a great opportunity to become a licensed professional. Ms. Reed is an impeccable dresser and she always looks professional and is a great role model for her students. Ms. Reed underwent a major health challenge that caused her to be out of work for several months and when she returned, it was full speed ahead; as if she were never gone. Ms. Reed was a proud recipient of Educator of the Quarter which she was very excited to receive. She will be missed beyond measure, the impact that she has made at Empire will never be forgotten. I wish her well in all of her future endeavors.鈥�

Reed expresses her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to making her remarkable career possible.

鈥淚 appreciate the opportunity to work here and be here for so long. It was a learning experience, and what I learned here, I plan to take with me. I will never forget the 29 years I spent in this building. Empire is a great company to work for. I will miss my coworkers, we have a great relationship. In the mornings we discuss what we are doing for that day, if we have a problem we go to each other, even if we just need to vent. I will miss them the most. I will miss the students too, of course. I learn from the students just as much as they learn from me,鈥� she shares.

Robert Curcio, Regional Senior Director at 海角社区, notes just how irreplaceable and special Reed is.

鈥淢s. Reed came to Empire by storm and demonstrated the highest levels of commitment to both the Empire Family and her students. Ms. Reed was a leader of leaders, being referenced by others as the Godmother of education. She was a go-to educator who truly understood the execution of the curriculum, having played a part in the analytics of curriculum development in the past while also supporting the state in testing thousands of students over her tenure with Empire. She always moved with such poise and never appeared rattled by always maintaining classroom control ensuring students met expectations and were successful. She flourished in setting the foundation for students having been a part of the pre-salon modules for Empire during the majority of her time and then transitioned into proctor mode at night. Unreplaceable is probably the best word to use when describing her. Overall, Ms. Reed has a huge, kind heart and demonstrates to love working with her surrounding team members and school leadership while always having a positive outlook on things and life.鈥�

Her inspiration to enter the beauty industry came from her older sister, who shared a similar passion.

鈥淎s a young girl, I always wanted to be a teacher but I wasn鈥檛 sure in what aspect. My sister then started in the beauty industry, so I followed behind her. Growing up, we always did each other’s hair,鈥� Reed shares.

For Reed, the most memorable part is being with her coworkers and students. She finds it meaningful to watch them grow from day one and appreciates when her students return after graduating to share their experiences.

鈥淢y coworkers and management are amazing. Student-wise, I enjoy them. I love seeing where our students begin. When they first start, they come in not knowing much. Then you see a 360-degree turn which is exciting. I love watching them understand what I鈥檓 teaching them. I enjoy when our students graduate and come back to tell us they are now licensed, speak about their work experience, and talk about their success. About every 3 weeks, we get to meet new students. You always remember them. It Is memorable to see a former student come back as either an educator or an administrator. You don鈥檛 forget moments like that,鈥� she says.

Reed offers valuable advice for those considering a career in the beauty industry.

鈥淵ou have to be humble in this industry. People are not going to hand you anything. They will teach you and you have to be teachable. You must be willing to learn, be professional at all times, and be patient. You are always on stage. Nobody knows it all. If you are teachable, you will be successful. If you think you know everything, then that is a problem because no one can teach you anything. This industry is always evolving. You have to go with the flow,鈥� Reed shares.

As Reed prepares for retirement, she is excited to start the next chapter of her life down in South Carolina.

鈥淢y biggest and most exciting plan is building a house in South Carolina. I am excited to decorate my new home and build my life back down in Carolina. My home is my main priority right now.鈥�

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Calpurnia Reed for her years of dedication and service. Her impact on the 海角社区 community will be felt for years to come. We wish her all the best in this exciting next chapter.

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The North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) is the most prestigious in the industry, celebrating talent across the nation in categories such as cutting, color, and texture. NAHA nominee Evie Johnson and NAHA winner Jamal Edmonds offered a once-in-a-lifetime mentorship opportunity for two students, supporting them in navigating NAHA. In this article, we shed light on the accomplishments of Evie and Jamal, the exclusive mentorship, and how it impacts the success of our future beauty professionals.听

Evie and Jamal are close friends, which has been central to their success. Both are accomplished professionals with deep expertise in textured hair, education, and creative styling. Evie is a certified trichologist, salon owner, platform stylist, and educator with a specialty in hair shaping and treatment. Jamal is a Mizani educator, NAHA finalist and winner, and a colorist/texture expert. Evie Johnson is a multiple-time NAHA nominee and Jamal Edmonds won the 2022 NAHA award for Texture.

海角社区 had the opportunity to host a Mizani Mentorship Moments session for all school locations, with Evie and Jamal as our featured guests. The purpose of this session was to inspire future beauty professionals and provide hands-on industry insight. Following this session, two E students from Florence, KY would receive mentorship from Jamal and Evie, preparing them for their own NAHA submissions.

The two talented students selected for this life-changing opportunity are Kristeen Kettelhake and Alyssa Boles. Both are driven, creative, and eager to make their mark in the beauty industry. Their selection for this mentorship is a testament to their commitment and potential.听

Kristeen Kettelhake never imagined she would be chosen for such an incredible opportunity. 

鈥淢y beauty career has grown a lot since starting at Empire. When we met about the mentorship contest. I was excited about it but never thought I would have been selected. When I found out I was selected I was in shock, I called my mom immediately to tell her about it,鈥� she shares. 

Kristeen鈥檚 mood board reflects her love for nature鈥檚 beauty, drawing inspiration from the theme of an enchanted forest.

鈥淭here is beauty in nature; it doesn’t matter what season it is, there is always something beautiful. It also shows growth. Nature always changes. In autumn and winter, the plants start dying due to the cold but shortly after, spring and summer come. It reminds me, even though life changes and starts a new season of my life there will always be an opportunity to grow and learn,鈥� Kristeen expresses. 

Kristeen hopes to learn new techniques from Evie and Jamal and gain the skills needed to pursue her own NAHA submission in the future. 

Alyssa Boles has always had a deep connection to beauty, experimenting with makeup and hair at a young age. Despite the doubts of her peers, she decided to pursue her passion.

鈥淚鈥檝e always loved makeup and hair. In my junior year of high school, I thought about going to Empire to expand my knowledge and become a cosmetologist. However, all of my friends were going to a four-year college. Empire has supported me by giving me the best education. I鈥檝e learned so many things from all my teachers, my first teacher there was Ms. Tuvara and she was the absolute best,鈥� Alyssa shares. 

Alyssa鈥檚 mood board was inspired by Greek mythology, showcasing the strength, grace, and power of goddesses like Athena, Aphrodite, and Artemis. 

鈥淚鈥檝e always loved mood boards and vision boards. I鈥檝e never had good luck, so I didn鈥檛 even think I鈥檇 win! But when I got the email, I was ecstatic, I instantly had to tell everyone I knew. I鈥檝e loved Greek mythology since I was in elementary school because of Percy Jackson. And goddesses are the epitome of beauty, what better way to show off a woman’s beauty than to represent them with different goddesses? Each goddess has a role, Athena is wisdom and strength, Aphrodite is beauty and grace, and Artemis is a leader and the queen of night. I wanted to reflect different women with the different goddesses,鈥� she explains. 

Alyssa is dedicated to perfecting her craft and expanding her skill set. She is eager to learn about the business and marketing aspects of the beauty world. 

鈥淲hether I choose to do hair, nails, or skin, I want to be the best I can be. I plan on taking many notes and documenting a bit of my experience with Evie and Jamal. As I move through schooling and working with clients, I鈥檓 doing great work but I鈥檓 excited to see and learn behind the scenes. Working with Evie and Jamal will help me feel more confident in myself and my craft. This experience will show how many other opportunities there are for cosmetologists,鈥� she reflects. 

This mentorship has a long-lasting impact on our 海角社区 students, as it provides them with exclusive insight into the beauty industry. This opportunity will shape their careers as they begin their journey to submitting an entry to NAHA. Students, we encourage you to search for mentorship opportunities as they will guide you toward success. Please reach out to the team at your school for possible opportunities.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll visit听

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In partnership with Mizani, a select group of educators were given the exclusive opportunity to travel to Los Angeles, CA for a one-of-a-kind experience. This experience included a two-day education event at the L’Or茅al ProLab, featuring hands-on training, product knowledge, and team-building activities. This opportunity allowed educators to expand their expertise, enhancing their ability to share cutting-edge techniques and industry knowledge with students.听

The trip was awarded to educators from schools with the highest Mizani sales across 海角社区s. The contest also embraced schools that championed launching a new Mizani product line. Educators were selected randomly, giving eligibility to all educators and not only those placed on the salon floor. The educators selected were based on their embodiment of Empire鈥檚 Core Values, especially Integrity. They demonstrated leadership when they believed no one was watching.听

The educators selected for this trip were: Tierney Gramling in Shamokin Dam, PA; Elianna Stewart in Lebanon, PA; Desarae Dumas in Speedway, IN; Ebony Wilson in Charlotte, NC; Kimberly Rankins in Northlake, GA; Dorothy Madaris in Morrow, GA, and Deborah Wiese in Tucson, AZ. 

The L’Or茅al ProLab in Los Angeles, California, held from December 6th-8th, 2024, offered two days of customized education, with hands-on training, product knowledge, and exclusive team-building opportunities, including a special dining experience at Manhattan Beach.

Amanda Lucas, Senior Director of Educational Development at 海角社区, had the opportunity to accompany the educators on the trip. She shares:

鈥淭his opportunity aligns with our commitment to provide ongoing training and development to our Educators. They not only had hands-on experience, but they also learned the science and 鈥榳hy鈥� behind the products and techniques. It was incredible to see the Educators bond and share so much with each other. It was the first time they met and made great connections, they were able to share best practices and experiences. They were excellent representatives of Empire and displayed the Core Values throughout the entire weekend. They are so excited to share what they learned with their students.鈥� 

Each of the seven educators had the opportunity to share their insights and reflections from the trip. Here鈥檚 what they had to say about their experience: 

Tierney Gramling, Educator at Shamokin Dam, PA:

鈥淔or our campus to be acknowledged and to have been given this unique opportunity means so much to me, it鈥檚 almost hard to put into words just how grateful and appreciative I am for this amazing chance of a lifetime. I was in good company with my incredible fellow educators. After 20 years of being in this profession, this was an adventure full of firsts for me. I鈥檝e spent the last week really trying to reflect on my unbelievable experience and I鈥檝e walked away from it with so much more: more knowledge, more confidence, and more courage. It was very much an empowering journey from start to finish. I feel I brought a strength back with me that I never had before. Maybe I did, I just hadn鈥檛 been able to discover and utilize it until I had this experience. I was able to share the 鈥榃ords Matter-Never/Always鈥� list with the entire school so we can all work to equip our future generation of stylists with the correct texture terminology. I was able to assist a student stylist with his first silk press, using all the techniques we had been taught that Saturday with Alexander. I was able to share the knowledge and the confidence I had in the products and the procedure with the student which in turn gave him the courage to perform that service and gain the confidence he so deserved when he successfully completed it and saw how happy his client was and how proud I was of him. It has been an absolute honor being a part of this amazing group and experience. When we were told how and why each of us was chosen it was an awe-inspiring moment to know we were part of something so big and so positive. It just reinforced and proved what I already knew was true of my campus, my ED, and my co-workers, as we all lead and inspire by example here. I鈥檇 like to extend my appreciation and gratitude to everyone who was a part of making this dream come true.鈥�

Elianna Stewart, Educator at Lebanon, PA:

鈥淓mpire has allowed me to continue my education in the field, they offer classes and inform us of opportunities. This trip however has been an unparalleled experience. It has given me a new level of confidence and excitement surrounding the topics discussed. Beyond learning new techniques and refining my skill set, I feel this experience has given me new ways to approach educating my students. It gave me new ways to approach certain topics, and new tools on how to present such information in a way that the students will be able to connect with a lot easier. Most of all, this trip has made me feel like I am part of something greater. I am not a number or a statistic, but a human who is being valued for what they do. This trip helped me to foster new connections, stepped me out of my comfort zone, and expanded my support network.鈥�

Desarae Dumas, Educator at Speedway, IN:

鈥淚 absolutely appreciate this great training and education from Mizani. It was one of the most honorable and memorable events I have experienced in my 7 years with the company. The team building was amazing. I met some of the best educators in the company! The overall impact of the content for the trip itself was very well planned and executed by all 3 parties (Empire, Mizani & L鈥橭real) who worked together to make this happen. I am so excited to transfer my training and knowledge to my co-workers and the student body here at our Empire Speedway location. Our core values shone as we all were appreciative and sponges to the education given to take back to our peers, students, and beauty culture aboard! I also used many examples from this trip in my EIT class this week to demonstrate leadership, unity, and professional growth for our future educators.鈥�

Ebony Wilson, Educator at Charlotte, NC:

鈥淓mpire has supported my professional growth by giving classes via Zoom and in person on product knowledge. During professional development days, I look forward to the hands-on product knowledge that we receive as well. The Prolab experience was so refreshing and helpful. I came back with a better understanding of Mizani products and new techniques. My students loved the knowledge I was able to share. I鈥檓 truly excited and thankful!鈥�

Kimberly Rankins, Educator at Northlake, GA:

鈥淭his experience has influenced my vision for the future of the school by trusting that the school is choosing the right products to be used by the students. When the Educators are well-educated about the products, it makes it much easier to relay the information to future professionals. They will be with an advanced level of knowledge and skill set on Mizani.鈥�

Dorothy Madaris, Educator at Morrow, GA:

鈥淭he opportunity was a great privilege. The skills taught were great to share with our Future Stylists. Product is so very important for a professional to be well-versed in. Sharing the experience and the knowledge given with the students gives them an expanded vision of what can be done in the industry or encourages them to broaden their views of the career field. I鈥檓 very thankful and will continue to educate all who come into my space whether class or hallways.鈥�

Deborah Wiese, Educator at Tucson, AZ:

鈥�I鈥檓 always open-minded to learning something new but this was THE most amazing learning experience I have ever endured. It completely changed my perspective on textured hair. It raised my awareness of the demand for services in caring for textured hair and also that the majority of people have some sort of texture in their hair.听 It helped me with the proper terminology when referring to textured hair and the amount of money that can potentially be made. I cannot wait until our next module, which is Chemical Texturizing. I not only plan on creating new lesson plans packed with all this new knowledge, but I also plan on including as many educators as I possibly can to share this information with them as well. I know this trip has changed me in many ways. The confidence I now have when it comes to the subject of textured hair is indescribable. I am confident in my ability to cover all aspects of this subject and I am super excited about sharing it. Now that I have a deeper understanding, I will be able to direct students and answer their questions with confidence. Knowledge is Power! I thank Empire for this life-changing experience!鈥�

This trip was more than just a learning opportunity, it was an immersive experience that allowed educators to refine their craft, explore new techniques, and gain fresh perspectives. As these educators return to 海角社区, they bring back a wealth of knowledge and excitement to share with their students. 

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Sade Luster鈥檚 journey to becoming a graduate ofNorth Hills, PA, is a powerful testament to resilience and passion. As a 35-year-old single mother of two, she faced significant challenges, including financial struggles and homelessness, while pursuing her dream of becoming a traveling makeup artist. Her time at Empire not only sharpened her skills but also led to her recognition as a finalist in the Licensed to Create Color the World Competition, showcasing her creativity and determination. Her story is a reminder that with perseverance, anything is possible.

鈥淪ince being in school, I had to sell my truck because money was tight and I couldn鈥檛 make my tuition payments. At the beginning of this year, I became homeless. I had to drop my program for about a month until I was able to figure things out. The educators have always been very nice and understanding. Mr. Deem was more than understanding during my challenging times. He helped me know where I鈥檓 at and motivated me to keep going. This has been a long journey, but it has been a great experience,鈥� said Luster.

Matthew Deem, Empire North Hills, PA Executive Director, shares:

鈥淪ade’s dedication and talent as both a makeup artist and hairstylist are truly inspiring. Her creative work has not only been celebrated on Empire鈥檚 social media but also earned her a spot as a finalist in the prestigious Color the World competition, where she competed against industry professionals. Starting as a part-time evening student, Sade has shown incredible perseverance, overcoming numerous obstacles to complete her program. She consistently seeks feedback and strives for improvement, embodying the true spirit of a dedicated and passionate artist.鈥�

For Luster, the love for her family drives her resilience. It fuels her determination to overcome obstacles and set an example for her children. She shares:

鈥淚 have two little faces that look at me every morning. My kids and my 9-pound chihuahua are my motivation to keep going. I want them to see how resilient and strong I am. When they are older, they can see that I had my struggles and let that be the motivation to keep going. I want them to conquer whatever comes their way.鈥�

While pursuing her cosmetology license, Luster was accepted into the IATSE Media Makers program, a prestigious opportunity designed to prepare makeup artists for the demands of set life. Luster was one of 12 individuals selected for this training. 

Reflecting on her time at 海角社区, Luster noticed self-growth as she fine-tuned her skills. 

鈥淎t Empire, I鈥檝e learned to have more patience with myself. The encouragement here is great, everyone around here is amazing. Before coming to school, I knew how to do some things, but not on a professional level. Being able to come to school and sharpen those skills makes me feel more ready professionally. My time at Empire has definitely been an unforgettable experience. It will be a part of my great memories forever,鈥� shared Luster. 

Luster understands the value of connections and the opportunities they bring, noting: 

鈥淣etworking has made my entire experience, I would not be where I am without networking with others. You can get far by using word-of-mouth networking, and having others recommend your services.鈥� 

Luster鈥檚 journey is filled with challenges and triumphs. Her story serves as a reminder for all:

鈥淣ever give up. Don鈥檛 give up on yourself or your passion. If it is difficult, keep going. If you鈥檙e scared, do it scared. You never know which opportunity is waiting for you. You won鈥檛 know if you鈥檙e great at something if you don鈥檛 do it,鈥� said Luster.

Sade Luster鈥檚 journey at 海角社区 illustrates the transformative power of resilience and passion in cosmetology. As she continues to pursue her dreams, her story serves as an inspiring reminder for others to embrace their challenges. We are incredibly proud of Luster and her determination. 

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll visit

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We are excited to announce the launch of the Esthetics program at in Glen Burnie, MD! This comprehensive program is designed to equip aspiring beauty professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic field of esthetics. Enroll today and take the first step towards transforming your passion for beauty into a rewarding profession.听

An esthetician is a state-licensed skin care specialist who evaluates the treatment of a client鈥檚 skin, determines which treatments are best for enhancing their appearance, and administers the treatments. They receive training to perform facials, microdermabrasion, hair removal, chemical peels, body treatments, and other services. 

Estheticians create a relaxing, calming experience as they work one-on-one with clients for their skincare needs. They are knowledgeable in skin care and educated on the latest products and techniques for all skin types. 

To become an esthetician, you must complete a licensed esthetician program and successfully pass the written and practical examinations for an esthetician license. The hours required for this program vary by state. For Empire Glen Burnie, MD, students are required to have 600 training hours.听

Students complete skin care training with experienced instructors by studying theory through textbook learning and in-class lectures. They then practice the techniques on mannequins and fellow students in the classroom and, later in the program, on real clients in a student salon or spa setting.

There are endless career opportunities for an esthetician such as a skincare specialist, medical esthetician, salon or spa manager, make-up artist, salesperson, beauty business owner, and esthetician instructor.

If you are ready to turn your passion into a career, enroll with 海角社区 Glen Burnie, MD today! 

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll visit

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We are thrilled to announce Adrian Chew as the Educator of the Year! Since joining the Glen Burnie campus in 2021, Chew has consistently demonstrated excellence. This award was given based on his selection from all the Educator of the Quarter recipients for 2023-2024 fiscal year, taking into account factors such as nomination forms, class attendance, academics performance and number of drops.

Kyle Schoeneman, President and Chief Operating Officer, of 海角社区 shares:

But throughout that morning it was even more obvious why Mr. Chew was Educator of the Year.  He is greatly respected by the Glen Burnie team.  Also, the students gain so much from Mr. Chew’s calming presence and deep knowledge of the beauty industry.鈥� 

In this video, Chew shares his insights into his beauty journey, offers advice for new educators, and discusses what this award means to him. 

Click for the Adrian Chew interview.

Chew鈥檚 deep love for teaching and the diverse opportunities within the cosmetology field is evident in his encouragement for students to explore all aspects of the industry.  His passion inspires students to become well-rounded professionals. 

Russell Miller, Group Vice President of 海角社区, shares:

鈥�I had the opportunity to observe Mr. Chew teaching on the salon floor. His teaching style is motivational, inspiring and engaging. Very easy to see why his students are so fond of him.鈥�

Adrian, congratulations on receiving the 2024 Educator of the Year Award. We are proud to have you as a member of our Empire Team.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll visit

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Apollo Alleman鈥檚 transition from a successful 15-year career as an executive chef to pursuing a passion for beauty reflects a profound personal transformation. Enrolling at Harrisburg, PA in January 2024, he has embraced the challenges of his new path with enthusiasm and determination. As he balances his studies with a role as a Salon Coordinator at Sports Clips Haircuts, Alleman鈥檚 journey exemplifies resilience and commitment, setting the stage for an impactful future in the beauty industry.

With less than four months remaining in his studies, Alleman is fully committed to maximizing his educational experience. In August 2024, he received a student feature award for having his work showcased on 海角社区鈥檚 social media. He is also a member of the 90/90 Club and was named Student of the Month. The 90/90 Club recognizes Future Professional Stylists who excel in the program, achieving at least 90% attendance and a 90% GPA. Alleman has earned several scholarships, including the Schwarzkopf Shaping Future Professionals, Moroccan Oil Student Scholarship, and the High Performance Salon Academy 鈥� Elevating Perceptions Scholarship.

As Alleman reflects on his journey, he emphasizes the pivotal moment that led him to the beauty industry, sharing insights into his past and motivations. He states:

鈥淚 switched over to this after spending 15 years as an executive chef working in various positions in the kitchen. Eventually, I realized this wasn鈥檛 what I wanted anymore and it wasn鈥檛 aligning with my values. It was filled with long hours and late nights. I have a 10-year-old daughter, and being away from her for those hours was not what I wanted. My mom and sister-in-law were both Cosmetologists, I was always having crazy things done to my hair. I had an underlying interest in it, I figured it would be a great career choice to channel my creativity. I wanted to help people feel good about themselves.鈥�

To maintain such high academic standards, Alleman emphasizes the importance of passion in his work.

鈥淚n addition to what I鈥檓 learning at school, I鈥檓 also learning from Sports Clips and other cosmetology avenues. I鈥檓 trying to absorb all the information since it is new to me. I鈥檓 keeping the passion alive and keeping things fun. You have to enjoy the learning aspect. I have ADHD, if something is not giving me dopamine then I am not doing it,鈥� said Alleman.

Looking ahead, Alleman outlines his goals for the beauty industry.

鈥淪hort-term I would like to get more into the niche of precision cuts and vivid hair colors. I want to further develop my skills for magazine photoshoots and runways. Eventually, I would like to start a local foundation to provide free beauty services to domestic violence survivors. That has always been my main cause that I have supported. Helping them out would be a great way to give back. I was lucky enough to receive scholarships to help with the costs, I want to help out others,鈥� states Alleman.

In addition to his studies at Empire Harrisburg, Alleman has earned two certifications that enable him to provide a safe environment for all clients: PBA Cut It Out Certification in Domestic Violence Awareness and Redken Safe Space Certification.

鈥淭he Cut It Out program with PBA is really important in our industry. This is training specific for our industry, to recognize signs of domestic violence and how to approach those conversations. We are in a unique position with our clients, since we are in their personal space. They see us more often than they might see a doctor. We are seeing the changes that can happen in people. Redken Safe Space Certified- surrounds the LGBTQ community. I am bisexual and the salon I will be working for is owned by a gay man. That training is about the community as a whole which I believe is important. When anyone sits in my chair, I want them to know that I see them as a person and as whatever they choose to identify as. I want to cater their service to their lifestyle and personality. I hate gender pricing, hair is hair. There鈥檚 not a whole lot of places where everyone feels safe, if I can provide one of them then I have done my part,鈥� said Alleman.

As a full-time student, Alleman works as a Salon Coordinator at Sport Clips Haircuts. After graduation, he will take on a position at Salon Metro Mikee鈥檚 in Harrisburg. Reflecting on his current role, he shares:

鈥淚t鈥檚 a lot of fun; the team I work with is great and super supportive of my Cosmetology journey. Before I got to the hair coloring portion of school, my manager taught me how to do highlights on her hair. The experience has been invaluable. Working in a salon setting pushed me to do more in school. It solidified that this is what I want to do.鈥�

Alleman advises aspiring beauty industry students to prioritize enjoyment in their learning.

鈥淢ake sure you are having fun with it. If you are enjoying what you鈥檙e doing, then it doesn鈥檛 feel like learning. Throw yourself into it. It will come to you much easier. The opportunities are out there, sometimes it could be difficult to find them. Anyone who wants this as a career can do it if they are determined and keep their mind to it. Show up to school. The more often you come, the quicker you can graduate, and you can start your career,鈥� said Alleman.

Reflecting on his journey, he shares:

鈥淲hen I was considering school, I was absolutely terrified. I spent 15 years in a career that I was successful in. Now I鈥檓 starting over completely at the bottom. I have never been happier, this year has been so fulfilling despite the setbacks. It鈥檚 doing something that I love doing and helping others. This has made my life so much better. If you鈥檙e passionate about creating and helping others, do it.鈥�

We are incredibly proud of Alleman for his determination and passion as he creates a meaningful career in the beauty industry. Connect with Apollo Alleman on Instagram and watch his journey, @apollosnips. 

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll, please visit

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in Shamokin Dam, PA educator, Megan Beasom, has been nominated to Intercoiffure by a student as their best teacher/educator! Beasom has been dedicated to educating our future beauty professionals at Empire Shamokin Dam for 5.5 years.

Intercoiffure is an organization of salon owners who are the best of the best and are the world鈥檚 leading hairdressers. Intercoiffure member salons not only offer strong mentorship and continued education, but also provide travel opportunities and networking with the 鈥榞reats鈥� in the industry. In January 2023, Intercoiffure created a campaign where students could nominate their best teacher and state how they were influenced by this teacher.

Reflecting on her nomination, Megan Beasom expressed her heartfelt appreciation for the recognition from her student.

鈥淚 feel very grateful that a student thought to nominate me. I love my students. It was an honor to be recognized,鈥� said Megan Beasom.

Beasom shared her journey, explaining how the inspiration from her own educators fueled her passion for teaching.

鈥淚t goes back to the teachers I had in school. I started at a vocational school, and I had a great teacher that I looked up to. When I finished my hours, I came to 海角社区 in Shamokin Dam, which is where I now work. I had Morgan Nelling as an educator, now the Executive Director. I looked up to all of my educators. When I was in my Cosmetology program, it was easy to get along with the educators. I knew I wanted to be someone like them. Everyone looked to them for help, they never judged anyone, and they were always there. I wanted to be like them. It was easy for me to fall into this role,鈥� said Megan Beasom.

Understanding the importance of student engagement, Beasom discussed her approach to making coursework enjoyable and interactive.

鈥淲hen I first started school, I drove over an hour just to come to Empire Shamokin Dam. I tell my students that I want school to be enjoyable for them. When I go into coloring, we do coloring demonstrations for students. I try to spark engagement with food; everyone loves food. Even if it is just bringing donuts in the morning, it gives them a little bit of a break. In skincare, we will do 鈥榮kincare sundaes鈥� and use layers of the skin to make ice cream sundaes,鈥� said Megan Beasom.

Highlighting her achievements, Beasom recounted her proudest professional moment and the recognition she received.

鈥�The professional accomplishment I am most proud of is receiving the MAACS Outstanding Educator of the Year Award. I was able to go to Pittsburgh, PA, to receive my award. It was nice to feel like someone was paying attention to my hard work. I feel like I have put in a lot of work into being an educator,鈥� said Megan Beasom.

Beasom emphasized that the greatest reward of all is witnessing the success of her students.

鈥淚 love seeing all of our students graduate and what they do next. It鈥檚 so fun because at our school, we are very close with our students. Past students will visit us to tell us what they are doing now. That is the most rewarding, to see them grow into such great cosmetologists and people. It鈥檚 emotional to see them from where they started to where they go,鈥� said Megan Beasom.

Reflecting on her experiences at Empire Shamokin Dam, Beasom highlighted the supportive environment and strong relationships that have contributed to her success.

鈥淔rom being at our location, you can tell it is very relationship-oriented. The student and teacher relationship goes further for us. I feel like we all have the same goal, and it pushes our students. Students are aware of their expectations. The core values are for staff and students, and it sets us apart from other schools. The awards that I have received, meeting different people in the industry, and receiving additional education are ways Empire provided me with opportunities professionally. It鈥檚 the little things Empire does for us,鈥� said Megan Beasom.

Despite her nomination and numerous contributions, Megan Beasom was not ultimately chosen for the Intercoiffure recognition. Nonetheless, we are incredibly proud of her achievements and dedication to her students.

For more information about听海角社区, or how to enroll visit听

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Brooklyn Thompson, an Shamokin Dam graduate, has been awarded the George Bradley Scholarship, which will fully cover her educational costs! Thompson graduated in July 2024 as Student of the Month.

鈥淲ords can鈥檛 explain how I feel about receiving the award. The fact that I鈥檓 the last recipient makes me feel so special,鈥� said Thompson.

At the time of her graduation, it was announced that she was the Student of the Month. Then, she was presented with the check, announcing her as the George Bradley Scholarship Winner. This moment was shared with Thompson鈥檚 family members, fellow students, and Empire team members.

鈥淚 felt amazed, and I was speechless. I was in shock. I started bawling and I didn鈥檛 know what to say. I knew I wasn鈥檛 the only one applying or going through personal things. Nothing like this had ever happened to me before. Everything was exciting, and it all hit me at once,鈥� said Thompson.

鈥淢y mother even cried because she was surprised by this scholarship. When she saw the amount, she started to cry because nothing like this had ever happened. It felt amazing. I went through so much to get to school. Before I enrolled, my car broke down, and there were personal challenges. I was surprised I even made it to graduation. There were so many times I wanted to quit, but I kept pushing myself. Ending with a bang felt really good and showed me there are more things that I could do in the future. My life became so much better in these nine months of being in school. It feels so good because now I can focus on my career.鈥�

Morgan Nelling, Executive Director at 海角社区 Shamokin Dam, was the first recipient of this scholarship and now has the pleasure of awarding it to one of her students.

鈥淏eing a former recipient, I know that the scholarship is awarded to someone who truly needs it financially. In her essay, she must have portrayed that quality, along with her dreams and goals for the beauty industry. Brooklyn was everyone鈥檚 hype girl. Her personality is so fun and welcoming that I truly believe it will carry her far in her career. It hasn鈥檛 been long since she graduated, and I鈥檓 already seeing many posts from the salon she is working at, showcasing how well she is doing. Without a doubt, the scholarship committee couldn鈥檛 have chosen a better candidate. She is a gem and loves making people feel beautiful. She showed us that throughout her entire education. She works hard outside of school as well to provide the best life she can for her child. Not only myself but my entire staff was thrilled to be a part of presenting her with this amazing achievement. Being the first recipient, awarding our students with this scholarship will always be one of my favorite memories and it is so special to me, but having Brooklyn as the last recipient was like the cherry on top,鈥� said Morgan Nelling.

While attending beauty school, Thompson also worked at Wegmans and cared for her two-year-old son as a single mother. She exemplifies dedication and is truly deserving of this scholarship.

鈥淚鈥檓 glad I made friends at school that I could ride there with. I had people helping watch my son, but I eventually got him into daycare. I would go to school all day, work at Wegmans until midnight, and hardly be able to see my son. It was hard and depressing. But now, it鈥檚 worth it because I can be with my son every day. He goes to school while I work, and I have time to cook dinner and put him to bed. It was a lot, but I did it,鈥� said Thompson.

From TikTok to beauty school, Thompson channeled her love of beauty into a career in helping others.

鈥淚 love watching TikTok videos of people doing lashes, facials, hair, and makeup. I would watch for hours and start to make my own videos. When I was younger, I was bullied about the way I looked. I tried to do my makeup and hair, but I didn鈥檛 have anyone to show me how to do it,鈥� said Thompson.

Reflecting on her time at 海角社区, Thompson shared her positive experience.

鈥淚t has been so good. I鈥檓 so happy that I decided to go to school. I was in a bad place before. In the pre-salon, Miss Meg brought me out of my character. The other students allowed me to be myself. I made so many friends at school that support me. Everything felt really good, to see my friends happy for me,鈥� said Thompson.

Following graduation, Thompson is now working at a salon while she focuses on building her clientele. Her long-term goal is to open a salon, give back to her community, and share her knowledge with others.

“I want to help others with their mental health in beauty school. In my scholarship essay, I wrote that I wanted to do for someone else what was done for me. I want to give someone a scholarship and have them feel what I felt. I always wanted to teach classes to those who can鈥檛 afford beauty school. I want to enroll in the Educator Training program,” said Thompson.

Thompson’s motivation is deeply personal, rooted in her desire to create a better life for her son.

鈥�My son is my inspiration. I pushed myself to not struggle like how my parents struggled. I went through so much; I wanted to feel free. I want my son to look at me one day and say, 鈥楳y mom did this.鈥� My son is the biggest reason why I went to school,鈥� said Thompson.

Thompson has been a hard worker all her life and encourages others to persevere despite challenges.

鈥淣o matter what, you will make it. No matter how hard it is, keep pushing through it. It will be better in the end,鈥� said Thompson.

Congratulations to Brooklyn Thompson on receiving the George Bradley Scholarship! We are proud of your dedication to making a significant impact in the beauty industry.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll visit 

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We are thrilled to announce that Vanessa Black, a graduate of in Cincinnati, OH, has been awarded the Regis Unleash the Beauty of Potential Scholarship. Black graduated in May 2024 and has already demonstrated exceptional skill and passion in her field, earning her a $5,000 scholarship.听

鈥淭he relief of the financial strain is unbelievable. I am so grateful, I can鈥檛 believe it. I have never won anything like this before. When I was told the news, I felt immediate relief because I paid for school by myself. It did not matter to me if I won $500 or $5,000, any assistance would make a huge difference for me. It is a huge blessing.鈥� said Vanessa Black.听

Jamie Suarez, Senior Vice President of Merchandising and Education at Regis Corporation, extends his congratulations:

鈥淲e at Regis are excited to announce that Vanessa Black has been selected to receive the Regis Unleash the Beauty of Potential scholarship. Vanessa鈥檚 outstanding talent and dedication have earned her this well-deserved recognition. We at Regis are proud of Vanessa鈥檚 achievements and wish her a very successful career in Cosmetology!鈥澨�

Black shares her heartfelt motivation for entering the beauty industry, highlighting her passion for transforming lives.

鈥淥ne of the things that drove me to pursue this career is giving people a confidence boost. I鈥檝e done hair for people of all ages. I鈥檝e done a little girl’s hair who was being bullied at school for her hair. I saw the smile on her face once she felt good about herself. People on the outside think it is a minor thing, it鈥檚 just hair. But for that little girl, it is a big deal. To be the one that does that for someone is huge for me. I love educating my clients on my process and how to maintain their hair.鈥�

If you’re passionate about an industry, don’t let opinions from outside sources hold you back. Learn from Black about how external perceptions initially deterred her from entering the beauty industry.

鈥淐osmetology has always been an interest of mine, ever since I was small. I would always do my dolls鈥� hair. I would play with my friends’ hair, my mom鈥檚 hair, and anyone sitting still long enough. I was delayed starting my beauty career because many people told me not to. I listened to the outside voices instead of what I wanted to do. I went to college as a paralegal major. As I was studying for the bar exam, I said to myself this is not what I want to do, why am I doing this? Finally, I looked into 海角社区. I needed something that would allow me to work full-time along with school. Empire offered an evening program, which made my childhood dream come true. It happened way later than I originally planned, but I was finally able to do what I wanted to do. When I took the leap, my family was right behind me, supporting me. It has been a long time coming.鈥�

Black advises students to enter 海角社区 with an open mind and readiness to learn.

鈥淲hen I got to beauty school I knew what I wanted to accomplish. Being in school for nearly two years part-time, while working full-time, is long enough. I didn鈥檛 want to delay my graduation by fooling around in class. I had to focus on my studies and keep my goal in mind. Once you get to school, soak it all up and take advantage of it. There is so much experience within those walls. There are no points in your career where you can stop learning. Always be ready to learn, and never be too proud to think you can鈥檛 ask questions or improve. Sometimes the piece of advice seems so minor, but it makes a huge difference. You are surrounded by so much knowledge and skills, don鈥檛 waste your time here by thinking you know everything,鈥� Black said.

If you’re thinking about starting your journey, Black offers encouragement to go for it. If you enroll with us, we will be your support system, guiding and assisting you throughout your entire journey.

鈥淕o for it. Everyone in the world is going to have their own opinion of what you should do, where you should go to school, and what to do with your life. At the end of the day, you are the only person who has to live your life. You can have a job making more money than you could dream of but be miserable. Go after what you love.鈥�

We understand that many students also have additional responsibilities while in school. Black shares her advice for persevering through the challenging days.

鈥淥nce I started, I knew I wanted to finish on time and have good grades. It has been a struggle. There were days when I was exhausted, but it was worth it. There will be days you don’t want to go to school but tell yourself to get there and get your hours. Get what you need done. Otherwise, you will be in school longer than you should have been. Once you get to school, it is better because it’s what you love to do. Don鈥檛 quit when it鈥檚 tough because if you are passionate about it then it will be worth it.鈥�

Now with beauty school finished, her plans include passing her State Board exams and then starting her career with JCPenny.听

鈥淟uckily, I already have a job lined up for me as well. I went to JCPenny to check out their salon on my own, and they started talking to me about working there. I鈥檝e gone through the interview process, and now all I need to do is pass my exam. Everything has been falling into place. I feel so blessed. I鈥檓 excited to grow my clientele at JCPenny and advance my skill set there.鈥�

This achievement is a testament to Vanessa’s hard work, commitment, and the bright future that lies ahead in the beauty industry. Join us in congratulating Vanessa on this well-deserved honor!

For more information about听海角社区, or how to enroll visit听

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At , we pride ourselves on delivering a comprehensive education that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the beauty industry. Our curriculum is designed to cover all facets of cosmetology, ensuring our students are well-versed in the latest techniques and trends. Here鈥檚 an overview of the modules in the cosmetology program and what you can expect to learn in each.

Cosmetology Curriculum Modules

Haircutting

In our haircutting module, you will master the art of cutting hair across all textures and lengths. From long, flowing locks to the shortest clipper cuts, we teach a variety of techniques using shears, razors, and clippers. Our curriculum focuses on timeless foundations that you can adapt to any trend throughout your career.

Hair Color

Haircolor is a dynamic and creative module. You will learn everything from basic root touch-ups and color blending to bold fashion colors and perfecting blonde shades. This module covers a wide range of coloring techniques, preparing you to meet any client’s needs.

Chemical Texturizing

Transforming a client’s natural hair texture can be both temporary and permanent. In this module, you’ll explore everything from permanent waves and relaxers to silk presses and spiral sets. We also cover keratin treatments, providing a comprehensive understanding of all texturizing options available in the industry.

Design Principles

Our design principles module teaches you styling techniques for all hair textures, lengths, and ages. You鈥檒l learn blow-dry styling, roller sets, iron work, silk press, updos, formal styles, braiding, extensions, locs, and wig applications. This comprehensive training ensures you can create stunning styles for any occasion.

Nail Care

In the nail care module, you will gain skills in basic manicuring, pedicuring, and nail enhancements. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to delve into the artistic side of nail care with nail art, allowing you to express your creativity.

Skin Care

Our skin care module covers the essentials of facials, facial waxing, and makeup application. You’ll learn techniques to enhance your clients’ natural beauty and provide them with a polished, professional look.

Makeup

All states have a very basic introduction to makeup, focusing on color theory, product knowledge, and application techniques. You’ll also explore corrective makeup and create various looks for different face shapes and occasions, from daywear to evening glam.

Preparing for Success in the Salon

Each state may have slight variations in salon-level training, but all focus on building upon the fundamentals learned in pre-salon training, making them more relevant for a professional salon environment. Throughout the entire program, we emphasize safety, sanitation, state regulations, and preparation for the state board exam where applicable.

Enrichment Phase and Specialty Tracks

As you progress through the program, you’ll enter the enrichment phase, where you can focus on areas of particular interest to you. For example, if you have a passion for makeup, you can choose a 鈥渟pecialty track鈥� to further develop those skills before graduation.

Building Soft Skills for a Successful Career

In addition to technical skills, we prioritize the development of soft skills necessary for building a successful business and a long, fulfilling career in cosmetology. Our curriculum is designed to ensure you not only become a skilled cosmetologist but also a savvy business professional.

Join us at 海角社区 and embark on a journey to becoming a well-rounded, highly skilled cosmetologist. Our comprehensive curriculum will prepare you for the diverse and exciting opportunities in the beauty industry.

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll visit 

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Rebecca Tira, a graduate of in Shamokin Dam, PA, has opened her salon, dedicated to fostering an encouraging and uplifting environment for both clients and employees. Tira graduated from beauty school in 2019 and is now the proud owner of Bec鈥檚 Beauty Co. in Williamsport, PA.

Bec鈥檚 Beauty Co. is a full-service salon and spa, with a focus on a positive atmosphere. Tira was one of the few who didn鈥檛 have a lifelong dream of opening a salon. However, it was her working experience that led her to this decision. 

“I never wanted to have my own salon, which is kind of crazy. Even when I was in beauty school, I was one of the few who did not want my own salon. The past 2 years, I started thinking about it because I was working for someone else and seeing a smaller income from that. It was still beneficial because I was in this field to make someone feel better, not for the money. Every salon is different. I wanted a place that was a good environment for clients and their employees. A place for employees to not feel pressure to have back-to-back clients, they can have time in between. A place for encouragement and building each other up,” said Tira.

Through a genuine love for hands-on work and the joy of making others feel beautiful, Tira鈥檚 path to success unfolds as a pathway of inspiration. 

“I always wanted to get into cosmetology since I was a young teenager. It was something I enjoyed doing. I do better working hands-on, so I knew this was the route for me. It鈥檚 rewarding to make people feel good.听 Especially people who come in having a bad day and see them leave with a smile on their face. It changes how you feel, it鈥檚 super rewarding,” said Tira.

Tira appreciated her foundation from 海角社区 and those who made the experience so memorable. At Empire, we work with each student individually to ensure you鈥檙e on the path to success. 

“It was a good experience, I really enjoyed my time at Empire. I had great educators and made lifelong friends. I wouldn鈥檛 want to do it any other way. Morgan Nelling was my instructor and she went above and beyond teaching. She cared for every student, every individual. You felt like you were more than just a student. I definitely won鈥檛 forget that,” said Tira.

Morgan Nelling, Executive Director 海角社区 Shamokin Dam, PA, watched Tira grow throughout her beauty career. She even had the opportunity to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the salon. 

“While Becca was in school, I moved from pre-salon educator to the salon floor educator and was her educator almost the entire time she was here. Becca has a heart of gold and is one of the sweetest people I have ever met. I knew from the start that she would excel in this career when she started, not only because of her talent but because of her personality. She鈥檚 definitely a student who I will never forget. It was really exciting for me to see on Facebook that she was opening her own business, and I of course reacted to the posts and even shared a couple for her which is rare for me. Then she reached out and asked if I would be there for her ribbon-cutting ceremony and I knew that I needed and more importantly, wanted to be there for her. I鈥檓 super grateful to be able to continue to watch her grow into a new boss and business owner with her husband. I鈥檓 excited to watch her business grow and I believe she deserves the absolute best!” said Morgan Nelling.

Navigating the unknown is challenging in itself. Whether you are at the beginning of your beauty journey, or looking for a change, Tira shares her advice. 

“If I could go back in time, I would make more of the time I had at Empire. I think when it comes to schooling, there are times when you drag your feet. I would make even more of the time I had there, and enjoy every moment of it. No matter how old you are or how many years you have in the industry, you can always learn something from someone. When I graduated school and had my first job, I told my boss ‘That鈥檚 not how my educator taught me.’ She told me something that I will never forget, which was ‘In this industry, you will always learn something from somebody. No one is doing it the wrong way, it is a different way to the same result.’ You can learn from anyone, older or younger,” said Tira.

Rebecca, congratulations on the opening of Bec鈥檚 Beauty Co. We are unbelievably proud of you and the change you are making in the beauty industry. 

For more information about 海角社区, or how to enroll please visit

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