Students Earn Certifications in Manicuring & Natural Hair with Support from The Darragh Foundation

Seven students completed the manicuring certification program and six students completed the natural hair program at Beaufort County Community College. The college offers both programs as single-semester certifications through the Division of Continuing Education, though students in the cosmetology program can choose to take add them onto their degree. The fees are covered by the college through the Darragh Foundation Scholarship.

Shamita Alston, Caressa Atkinson, Eldorado Brown, Shakayla Johnson, Arissa Kim, Gabrielle Smith, and Janella Thompson achieved certification in manicuring.

Lateria Alexander, Keisha Cherry, Shannon Horton, Sequoia Minix, Brianna Smithers, and Valarie Wesson achieved certification in natural hair.

The manicuring program covers techniques of nail technology, hand and arm surface manipulation, and recognition of nail diseases and disorders. Topics include OSHA/safety, sanitation, bacteriology, product knowledge, salesmanship, manicures, artificial applications, pedicures, surface manipulation, and other related topics. Upon completion, students are able to safely and competently perform nail care, including manicures, pedicures, surface manipulations, decorating, and artificial applications in a salon setting.

Graduates the class can take the North Carolina Cosmetology State Board Licensing Exam to be licensed and qualify for employment in beauty and nail salons, as a platform artist, and in related businesses.

This natural hair program teaches students how to care for natural hair without the use of chemicals such as perms/relaxers and hair color. Style techniques include braiding, twisting, wrapping, extending, and locking natural hair. Coursework also includes teaching the proper health, safety, and sanitation procedures to avoid spreading infections. Students are able to apply their skills to clients who visit the clinic.

Graduates will sit for the North Carolina State Board of Cosmetic Arts exam to become a licensed Natural Hair Care Specialist.

All thirteen students in this program qualified to have their fees covered by The Darragh Foundation Scholarship. Established in 1998 by Richard and Mildred Darragh, the Darragh family focuses on the impact of education in the communities it serves. The Darragh Foundation’s mission is “Helping to Improve the Lives of Others.” Scholarships from the foundation are awarded to Continuing Education students seeking their high school equivalency diploma and students working towards an industry-recognized credential returning to the workforce. Scholarships are awarded biannually and students must show academic promise and demonstrate need.

The Darragh Foundation also supports students in programs such as pharmacy technician and industrial sewing.