Three Stops, One Mission: COE President’s Leadership in Motion Tour Sweeps Georgia

President and CEO Dr. Kirk A. Nooks continued his Leadership in Motion tour with three dynamic stops across Georgia, highlighting institutions dedicated to advancing skills, training, and career development.

 

At each school, Dr. Nooks engaged with students, faculty, and institutional leaders while celebrating milestones in education and professional training. The tour began August13, 2025, at Pro Way Hair School in Dekalb County, where Dr. Nooks was welcomed with open arms and a camera. During the visit, students were receiving professional headshots, and Dr. Nooks joined in on the fun by posing for his own photo in front of the school’s backdrop.

 

He toured the campus, greeted students and instructors, and took part in the day’s activities. “In each stop of the Leadership in Motion Tour, I continue to be amazed by the dedication of institutional leadership and the drive of their students,” said Dr. Nooks. “Pro Way Hair School is especially meaningful to me because it’s located in the same neighborhood where I attended high school. It is inspiring to see the institution thriving in the community I love so well.” “Dr. Nooks’ visit not only motivated our students but also reinforced the school’s commitment to excellence in beauty educational training,” said Commissioner Steve Sullivan, president of Pro Way Hair School.

 

Dr. Nooks made his second Georgia stop at the International School of Skin, Nailcare and Massage Therapy, located in Sandy Springs, GA. During the visit, Dr. Nooks engaged with students in the classroom, participated in a hands-on posture check, and met with the school’s president and director. “We especially appreciated the time he devoted to answering our questions about the importance of accreditation. His vision for Excellence in Education and his emphasis on the vital role of a strong accrediting body deeply resonated with us. We are honored to have hosted Dr. Nooks and proud to uphold our commitment as a COE-accredited school,” said Pamela Jones, president of the International School of Skin, Nailcare and Massage Therapy.

 

The stop also coincided with a milestone celebration as the school marked its 40th anniversary of membership with the North Georgia Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Nooks participated in a ribbon- cutting ceremony alongside chamber representatives to honor the occasion. “Today’s visit highlighted the International School of Skin, Nailcare and Massage Therapy’s precision, wellness, and professionalism,” said Dr. Nooks. “From the posture assessment in class to the conversations with students about career goals, you can see a learning environment that truly prepares students for client- centered care.”

 

On August 20,2025, the tour made its final Georgia stop at Beaver Beauty Academy, located in Decatur, GA. Dr. Nooks engaged in meaningful conversations with faculty and staff, toured classrooms, and observed students as they practiced their craft and sharpened their skills. He was able to witness training in action and see firsthand the commitment of excellence of both students and instructors in their fields. “Visiting Beaver Beauty Academy gave me the opportunity to see firsthand the dedication of both students and faculty in advancing their craft,” said Dr. Nooks.

 

Dr. Melanie Beaver, President and CEO of the academy, added, “We were honored to welcome Dr. Kirk Nooks, President of the Council on Occupational Education, to Beaver Beauty Academy as part of his Leadership in Motion Tour. His visit provided us with an opportunity to highlight our commitment to excellence in career education, showcase our facility, and celebrate the dedication of our faculty and staff. Most importantly, it gave our students and stakeholders the invaluable experience of hearing directly from the President of our accrediting body. While we emphasize accreditation standards daily, having Dr. Nooks reinforce their importance in person was truly inspiring and left a lasting impact on everyone present.”

 

Dr. Nooks heads to Michigan in September as the Leadership in Motion Tour moves forward. Stay tuned for what’s next!