THE EVENT: “Making Connections”, October 26-30, the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) Annual Convention held at Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL.   Nearly 1,000 school owners, beauty and wellness industry leaders were there to share, strategize and celebrate.

THE DETAILS: Attendees spent the three and half days in classes and lectures and on the show floor, socializing and networking. 

Keynote Speaker Dr. Joe Pace discussed "Success Strategies for Effective Colleges and Schools", Steve Reiss, Modern Salon Publisher, talked about Beauty Industry Trends, and TIGI’s Tauri Laws-Philips spoke on Digital Media.  Pivot Point sponsored “Leading at the Speed of Trust”, a showing of the Leo Passage documentary and a discussion of inspiring leadership. 

INDUSTRY HONORS:  Modern Salon’s 3^rdExcellence in Education Awards were presented, recognizing outstanding beauty school achievement in eight categories with over 50 schools honored.  

The Spirit of Service Award was presented to Sally Samuels. Lynelle Lynch, owner and president of Bellus Academy, was honored with the Director of the Year Award in recognition of her dedication to and support of AACS and its board.

Milady President Dawn Gerrain presented the Cimaglia Award to Cynthia A. Becher from La’James International College in Fort Dodge, IA for her contributions to the industry. Cimilglia candidates are either past presidents of AACS and/or those persons with 25 years or more of outstanding performance and continuous service to cosmetology education and the beauty industry.

 “This industry changed me internally,” Becher said. “From the bottom of my heart, I can’t tell you enough how I appreciate this.”

 LEADING FOR 2013:

The 2012-13 AACS Board of Director officers are:

• Christine Gordon, president

• Robert Passage, vice president

• Don Yearwood, vice president

• Lynelle Lynch, secretary

• Joe Carretta, treasurer