COSMETOLOGY

Already one of the largest and most successful in the state, the Rowan-Cabarrus cosmetology, esthetics and manicuring programs rose to even greater heights with their move to a spacious new location in Kannapolis called College Station.

The previous location on West Avenue was a key site in the City of Kannapolis’ plan to build a new stadium downtown. In order for the city to move forward, Rowan-Cabarrus partnered with Kannapolis, Cabarrus County and Castle & Cooke to relocate the cosmetology program to the shopping center at 489 Cannon Boulevard.

When the site was ready, the College hosted city and county officials, the Rowan-Cabarrus Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, donors and community members for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and tour of the new location, named College Station. Students showed off their accomplishments as they worked with models to do hair, makeup and nail treatments for an entertaining runway show.

The new building provides more square footage, a professional lobby area, full-service salon labs, a computer lab and classroom space, all on a single level. It is also situated along a Kannapolis bus route for the convenience of students, staff and clients.

“We are proud of College Station and the high level of teaching and learning that goes on there,” said President Spalding. “It is a delight to see students working closely with their instructors and providing high-quality, professional services to clients.”

The program curriculum is designed to provide competency-based knowledge, scientific and artistic principles, and hands-on fundamentals in all three major disciplines of the beauty industry – cosmetology, esthetics and nail technology – all at affordable tuition rates. Students learn in a simulated salon environment that enables them to develop essential manipulative skills.

The program offers associate degrees, diplomas and certificates. Course work includes instruction in all phases of professional imaging, hair design, chemical processes, skin care, nail care, multicultural practices, business and computer principles, and product knowledge. Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the North Carolina State Board of Cosmetic Arts examination to receive their license, and then may work in beauty salons or a variety of other professional settings.

“Our students are flourishing in this environment,” said Ronald Wolfe, program chair. “The new facility has windows in each classroom and skylights that provide much-needed lighting for our students, clients and faculty. This is a tremendous help when working with hair coloring.”

At College Station, students offer public clients services at reduced rates, while supervised by licensed instructors. Choices include haircuts, styling, color and highlights, hair treatments, manicures, pedicures, waxing, facials and more.

“Our students are doing beautiful work,” Wolfe said. “I highly encourage anyone to come and enjoy one of the many salon-quality services we offer.”

Since Rowan-Cabarrus began offering classes and seeing clients at College Station, the spacious facility has proven to be a showcase for the transformations and beauty students create for their clients.

“This beautiful facility would not have been possible without the unique public-private partnerships between the City of Kannapolis, Cabarrus County and Castle & Cooke. We are excited about the space and look forward to continued partnerships with these and other community groups,” said President Spalding. “We are extremely supportive of the efforts to revitalize downtown Kannapolis and stimulate economic growth and development. We believe this move is a win-win for both the College and the City of Kannapolis.”