why douglas j aveda institute
After 20 successful years of owning a salon and becoming local industry leaders, Doug and Sharon Weaver came to realize an unsavory fact: Cosmetology students were not getting an adequate education is cosmetology school. The Weavers believed that having a solid education was a vital factor to a person becoming a successful stylist. Driven by the desire to provide that quality education, the Weavers opened up the Douglas J Academy of Cosmetology in 1986.
After several years of operating a successful salon and cosmetology school, the Weaver's made pioneering in the salon industry a family affair. Their sons Scott and TJ became regularly involved in the family business as president and vice president, respectively. In 1993, Scott and TJ joined forces with Aveda by becoming the seventh Aveda Institute in North America.
In the 15 years since Scott and TJ have taken the reins, the Institute has not only remained a constant provider of a quality education beyond expectation, but has stepped to the front of the industry by continually raising the bar for excellence in Cosmetology education. The Institutes keep abreast of the latest relevant practices by its strong presence and involvement in the Aveda Network. In its affiliation with the Aveda Network throughout the world, Douglas J is able to share and exchange curriculum ideas and learn the latest innovations in Cosmetology training.
Scott and TJ had the foresight to understand that not only an innovative curriculum, but exceptional facilities are crucial to giving students an unprecedented education as well. Each post-modern Institute is outfitted with contemporary classrooms and state of the art clinic spaces designed to be a comfortable but challenging environment for students to nurture their creativity. "Students need to know that no matter where they come from, a small town or an urban hub, they will be able to assimilate immediately into the finest salons," says Scott Weaver.
To further adapt to high-end salons Scott adds, "Students need exposure to real-life business situations, where you manage the stress of a busy successful enterprise." Students gain this exposure by providing services to well over 300 clients each day collectively throughout each of the four Institutes, which is nearly five times the amount of service and sales experience gained at other Cosmetology schools.* Douglas J students complete their program with not only a superior education, but with outstanding sales and service experience, which makes them a more well-rounded professional and more prepared for real-life business situations.
Students come from all over the Country to partake in the Douglas J educational experience. Douglas J’s integrated coursework includes technical training to master techniques in hair, skin, nail care and cosmetic application. "We do more than just prepare students for State certification," says TJ Weaver. We also teach students to care about their clients. Customers aren’t just here for a hair cut, but for an experience."
Since 1993 the Institute has grown from one location in East Lansing, to four locations throughout the State of Michigan. In 2002, the East Lansing Institute was honored as the Aveda Institute of the Year. In 2007, the Grand Rapids Institute received an Outstanding Historic Preservation Project Award for the work it did in restoring the building where the Douglas J Aveda Institute is located in downtown Grand Rapids. In January of 2008, Douglas J opened its doors in Royal Oak. This new Institute carries forth with the same prestige and educational integrity that is synonymous with the Douglas J name.
*source: NCES
