TSPA Students Shine at the 2025 AACS/L’Oréal Student Stylist of the Year Contest

The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) network has a reason to celebrate! Students from across the country have earned top honors at one of the most prestigious competitions in the beauty industry—the 2025 Student Stylist of the Year Contest, presented by the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) and L’Oréal Professional Products Division.

This year’s competition brought together hundreds of beauty school students from across the United States, showcasing the best in creativity, technical talent, and professional skill. TSPA students stood out in a big way—securing finalist spots in three of the four national categories and even bringing home the Best Overall award.

Top Honors Go to TSPA Students

• Winner, Best Overall: Emily Futrell – TSPA Evansville

• Finalist: Lauren McBride – TSPA Evansville

• Finalist: Tatiana Hernandez – TSPA Maplewood

“This national contest highlights the creativity, technical talent, and professionalism of future beauty leaders, and we are beyond proud of these students for representing TSPA with such excellence,” said Anthony Civitano, President of The Salon Professional Education Company (SPEC). “To be recognized on a national stage is a true reflection of their hard work and the quality of education happening within our schools.”

A National Stage for Future Beauty Leaders

With so many talented applicants, earning a finalist spot is no small feat—let alone winning the Best Overall award. This incredible achievement speaks volumes about the dedication of our students, the guidance of our educators, and the strength of the TSPA education model.

TSPA blends advanced technical training with real-world business skills, preparing students to thrive in a competitive and ever-changing beauty industry. Recognition like this proves that our students are not only learning the craft—they’re mastering it at a professional level before graduation.

You can learn more about the competition and see the full list of winners here: AACS & L’Oréal 2025 Student Stylist of the Year.

About The Salon Professional Education Company (SPEC)
The Salon Professional Education Company powers nationally recognized beauty school brands, including The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) and Elevate Salon Institute (ESI). With locations across the country, SPEC schools combine hands-on, professional education with real-world business training, empowering students and school owners to thrive in the beauty industry.

About The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA)
The Salon Professional Academy is a nationally recognized beauty school brand powered by SPEC, offering high-end education, innovative curriculum, and career-focused training. With strong industry partnerships and a commitment to student success, TSPA prepares the next generation of beauty professionals for rewarding and impactful careers.