A super team: instructor and student earn awards at haircutting competition

On Nov. 11, hundreds of cosmetology teachers and students packed into the Newport Beach Marriott Hotel and Spa for the Supercuts of Los Angeles' annual Supercuts Sunday competition. In the world of haircutting, this event is something akin to the Super Bowl. The day was filled with networking, games and hair-styling contests, all capped with an awards dinner during which selected educators were honored for their contributions to the haircutting industry.

Citrus College cosmetology instructor Patty Glover and student Heang Lao were among those in attendance.

As Ms. Lao competed against 100 other cosmetology students, she noticed that the number of contestants dwindled round after round. Eventually, it was only Ms. Lao and nine other students in the final round of the competition. When the contest was complete, Ms. Lao had received fifth place.

The honors did not end there. That evening, Ms. Glover was presented with the Ultimate Teacher Award. The presenter noted that Ms. Glover had trained hundreds of exceptionally talented cosmetologists throughout her career — many of whom are now employed by Supercuts and cite Ms. Glover as their greatest source of inspiration.

"I was absolutely honored to receive this award," said Ms. Glover. "Everything I do is for the students. This award proves that our students are prepared to excel long after they leave Citrus College."

Both Ms. Glover and Ms. Lao returned to Citrus with beaming smiles.

"It is always great news when members of the Citrus College community are recognized for their unique talents and accomplishments," said the college superintendent/president. "Kudos to Patty Glover and Heang Lao. Their achievements affirm that every path at Citrus College leads to success."

cosmetology instructor demonstrates hair-coloring techniques on a seated student while another student watches in the citrus college salon

With student Heang Lao observing, cosmetology instructor Patty Glover demonstrates the precision and artistry behind professional hair coloring.

This article originally appeared in the December 2018 edition of the Citrus View.