2 minute read
Shag86 University Professional Education for Stylists
(l-r) Danny Stevens, Sam Casillo, Lily Vasquez, Gerald Ferraro, Fritzi Gonzalez, Stephanie Quiroga, Tom Harris
By Christine S. Maxwell, photo by Dan Epstein
As with most professions, continuing education is the key to honing skills and advancing in one’s chosen career. With Shag86 University, local and regional licensed hairstylists can improve their styling skills and share their expertise with peers. Courses are now available to all stylists, from newbies to seasoned professionals to salon owners, within the spacious and modern three-floor facility of Shag86 Salon in Little Falls.
Before Shag86 University, most stylists had to go to Manhattan for professional opportunities. Shag86 University invites local professionals throughout New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut to study and collaborate. “An oasis of opportunities now exists in our backyard, with Shag86 University as a destination point,” states Gerald Ferraro, owner of Shag86 Salon.
Tom Harris, who along with Ferraro, developed the vision for Shag86 University. “My role as Artistic Director is to elevate stylists from all different levels of learning to reach their untapped abilities. I am passionate about sharing my years of international experience with those who would attend our educational classes. Our goal is to raise the bar in education at Shage86 University,” says Harris.
The Shag86 University educators are eager to share their wealth of knowledge with stylists in the regional area. The faculty are Shag86 employees, with more than a combined total of 159 years of professional experience and with diverse specialties. The educators and their respective expertise include: • Danny Stevens, master barber • Sam Casillo, hair painting and balayage specialist • Lily Vasquez, curly hair specialist • Gerald Ferraro, owner/founder • Fritzi Gonzalez, theatrical makeup artist • Tom Harris, artistic director The first course held on April 11-12, was a two-day hair cutting boot camp. The camp was taught by artistic director Tom Harris who reviewed more than six major types of haircuts. The courses will last one-two days, with each participant receiving a mannequin and tripod for practicing their skills. The course will finish with a certificate and a professional evaluation of their performance. At each session, Shag86 University provides a light fare breakfast and lunch to participants. For more information or a schedule of monthly classes, contact Sarah Ferraro, Director of Operations, at Shag86 Salon.
Ferraro adds, “Shag86 University opens the door to learn and synergize with other stylists about new and fresh ideas that can take their careers to a whole new level.”
Shag86 Salon
86 Main Street, Little Falls 973-837-0086 | www.shag86.com
