Who is Innovate Salon Academy

John has worked for over 36 years in the Beauty Industry, both as a stylist and salon owner. John was nominated for the prestigious 2008 Global Entrepreneur and Salon of the Year award, which recognizes and honors leading salon owners who consistently demonstrate extraordinary business and entrepreneurial success in the areas of salon leadership, general management, financial prosperity, marketing & promotion, and who contribute to the salon industry and their community. The Jon Lori Salon has been in business for 32 years and has 35 employees.

Donna Hernandez is a Co-Owner at Innovate Salon Academy. Donna is a Certified Redken Colorist and a Certified Redken Design Artist, with more than two decades of experience. At the Academy, Donna has had the opportunity to fine-tune her own creative prowess while sharing her expertise with eager students. Donna is very proud to say that Innovate Salon Academy is the only cosmetology school endorsed by Redken 5th Avenue.

Donna boasts, “The educators at Innovate will get the job done. They will give our students the education they need and deserve to create top 20’s in our industry!”
In addition to heading up the education team at Innovate, Donna also owns Color Bar 51, where she still works as a stylist.
With 15 years experience in salon ownership and operations, Donna has a deep understanding of exception guest and student service. Not only will you receive a top of the line education, but also a truly unique student centered experience.

Sean Sickles is co-owner of Innovate Salon Academy and has been licensed as a cosmetologist and Educator, working in the industry for over 20 years. Born into the beauty industry, Sean’s passion is to grow industry leaders by empowering women and men to create confidence in others, to find their artistic identity, perfect their craft, and love what they do.
Sean simply states, “Not only is this career financially rewarding but waking up every morning doing something you love in a culture that changes on the daily and accepts everyone… is simply inspirational, and I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Sean has been instilling confidence while educating students and guests in new styles, techniques, and trends to provide the ultimate educational experience with exceptional quality. Sean has trained at the famous REDKEN Exchange, Pureology, Bumble & Bumble University in NYC, and Vidal Sassoon Academy in Miami, FL. In addition to being a REDKEN Certified Master Hair Colorist and Certified in Principal Based Design, he holds over 40 Certificates of Achievement, and is extremely well versed in all aspects of Hair Color, Keratin Treatments, Hair Straightening, and Precision Cutting.

Susan Amorosi Guido brings over 25 years of combined admissions and financial aid experience to Innovate Salon Academy team. Her impressive professional background includes, holding license as a Cosmetologist and Educator. Susan is also an Examiner for the NJ State Board of Cosmetology. Helping students to get one step closer to their dreams. Susan takes pride in her profession and is constantly striving to provide the most accurate, detailed information possible to allow students to make the best decisions for their future.

Angela Curbelo joined Innovate in 2012 and in 2014 was made the head of our volunteer work and scheduling all our advanced education for our students and the industry as a whole. She has had many years in the salon industry but has found her true love is being an educator. In the 3 years that Angela has been an educator at Innovate, she has been certified in all of Innovate teaching methods. Just a few of the many certification she has received is Principle Based Design and Finish, Train the Trainer, hair extensions and makeup. Her passions lie with the education her students receive from her. She loves to share every piece of her knowledge to help here students be a top 20 student and stylist. Angela has a very bubbly personality and is always in a positive mind frame. She is an integral part of the Innovate educational team. She is always full of ideas and always willing to help anyone that needs help. Angela always pictured herself in this amazing, lively industry, which then brought her to Innovate to be an educator. Her passion and love for her students runs deep. She would do anything for them!

Bio Coming Soon!

Karen Young was named lead educator at Innovate Salon Academy and has been here from the first day our doors were opened, on October 5, 2009. Her dedication to the exceptional education that is offered at Innovate and her love to share her knowledge with her students is second to none. Karen has had extensive training in the Innovate principles of teaching. These include being certified in Principle Based Design and Finishing. She has joined the elite ranks of becoming a Redken Certified Colorists. Karen has traveled across the continent and into New York City on numerous occasions for Redken based training. She is also welled grounded in Dermalogica and MUD Makeup Designory.

Astrid is an experienced and dedicated Financial Aid professional with 10 years in the field of Higher Education. As the Director of Financial Aid, she oversees the administration and distribution of Title IV programs, ensuring students receive the necessary resources to pursue their academic goals. Astrid is also an Army Veteran is a dedicated army veteran who served 4 years in Army National Guard. During her tenure, she demonstrated exceptional commitment and bravery in notable missions.  Since Astrid’s honorable discharge she has embodied the values of discipline, teamwork, and integrity instilled during her military service which she brings to her occupation as a Director of Financial Aid.

Amy has been in the in the industry for over 20 years. She started her career at a young age, and has been a dedicated stylist ever since. Amy wanted to stay within the beauty industry, but had the urge to give back to upcoming future professionals.  She has taught many students all over the state and catapulted them to their careers. Amy has taught cosmetology and specializes in teaching the barber program. She is dedicated in giving students the resources to be successful in the industry.  She also is passionate about over seeing the classroom education department so all students are learning the most up-to-date skills, and have the knowledge to pass their state board exam.

Bio Coming Soon!

Kimmeth, or “Mo” more commonly referred to. Has within his short time with Innovate, worn many hats. Starting as Student Educator, then to Guest Services Manager, Classroom Educator, and now Lead Educator. Mo brings with him not only his 20 plus years of experience in the industry, but a love and passion for beauty education that is unparalleled. With a constant focus on finding new and exciting ways to deliver information to todays learner, Mo continues to push, inspire, and empower the Innovate student to become greater than they ever dared to dream. Having taught cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, and the educator program. You’re sure to find Mo in any area of the academy at any given moment. The next time you visit, be sure to stop him and say hello!

With over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, Sharon brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her students with an engaging teaching style. Sharon’s approach to teaching is characterized by a commitment to fostering a comprehensive and engaging learning environment. She focuses on blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the demands of the industry. Known for their innovative methods and supportive mentoring style, Sharon inspires students to achieve excellence and cultivate a lifelong passion for the beauty industry. Sharon is passionate about advancing their craft and staying at the forefront of beauty trends. Her journey is marked by a dedication to enhancing students’ confidence and well-being, blending years of hands-on experience with the latest techniques and innovations.

Bio Coming Soon!

Bio Coming Soon!