BPCC NATCHITOCHES ANNOUNCES OPENING OF PETULA HOLDEN STUDENT SALON

NATCHITOCHES – Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC) announces the opening of the Petula Holden Student Salon at its Natchitoches campus, 6587 Highway 1 Bypass. Beginning Tuesday, August 19, the salon will provide the public with affordable, professional-quality services performed by BPCC Cosmetology students under licensed instructor supervision.

The Petula Holden Student Salon (Room 115) will be open to the public every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9am to 2pm and will offer a full range of beauty and personal care services, including haircuts, styling, coloring, manicures, pedicures, and more. All services will be performed by BPCC Cosmetology students under the direct supervision of licensed instructors, ensuring a professional and safe experience for every client.

Proceeds from all salon services will go directly back into the BPCC Cosmetology program, helping to fund essential tools, supplies, and enhanced learning opportunities for students. By supporting the salon, clients are not only receiving high-quality services but also playing an active role in the education and success of future beauty industry professionals.

“We are excited for this opportunity to open our doors to the Natchitoches community to experience the high-quality work of our students,” said Quentin Calhoun, Dean of Business and Information Technology. “This salon is more than a training space; it’s a fully functioning salon that offers students real-world experience while giving the public access to affordable and professional services.”

The salon is named in honor of Petula Holden, a beloved former cosmetology instructor and program director at BPCC, who passed away in September 2023. Known for her passion for teaching and commitment to student success, Holden played a vital role in shaping the program into what it is today. Her legacy lives on through this salon and the continued success of the students she mentored.

One of Holden’s proudest contributions to the program was the creation of Student Salon Days, an initiative she envisioned to celebrate student talent, creativity, and skill by providing services to the public. The Petula Holden Salon brings that vision to life year-round, serving as a living tribute to her dedication and to the transformative power of hands-on education.

BPCC’s Cosmetology program provides a comprehensive education and practical training to aspiring cosmetology professionals. Through a blend of classroom instruction and real-world experience, the program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue successful careers in the beauty industry. Visit www.bpcc.edu/salon for services and pricing information.

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 Attached photos courtesy of Bossier Parish Community College.