Our Team

Our team is here to help you succeed

Lorie Chadsey

Director & Esthetic/Spa Therapy Department Head & Instructor

My passion for this industry has not changed in the many decades I have been involved in this great industry. I am blessed to say that my job is to share my knowledge and watch my students be inspired and excited to be entering this industry. My goal is always to create a solid foundation of knowledge and to always encourage my students to understand what they are doing and why. Originally trained at Blanche Macdonald and went on to take as many advanced courses as possible. As department head, I am always creating the highest possible standards of excellence from developing new treatments to staying on top of industry trends.

“You get in life what you have the courage to ask for” – Oprah Winfrey

Shannon Burton

Director of Admissions

Establishing a career in the beauty industry was all I had ever envisioned for myself. Starting off at a young age of 11 cutting my families hair by was just the beginning. Graduating with my Cosmetology license in 1992 lead me on a wonderful journey in the beauty industry. Starting my career in a full day spa, then renting a station, becoming an Instructor and onto opening my own Cosmetology Academy in 2003.

I am very passionate about the beauty industry and the quality of life that it offers! The beauty industry brings opportunity for great financial, personal and educational growth to name just a few. Promoting this industry comes naturally to me, I enjoy talking about Cosmetology and encouraging others to be proud of their dreams within the beauty industry! It is an amazing opportunity to be in a position as the Director of Admissions at AOE! It is rewarding to help others fulfill their dreams within the BEST industry in the world!

“Do what you love, and the money will come!” -Oprah

Tony Ciprani

Hair Department Head & Instructor

As department head Tony is amazing at being able to lead, manage and develop the hair department to ensure it achieves the highest possible standards of excellence in all its activities. Tony’s gregarious and high energy nature as an instructor enables him to relate to all his students, he cherishes each and every one of them and has a strong commitment to have them be their best. Originally trained in Italy and over the many years in the industry has owned several salon’s and been very successful and now his passion is to share his knowledge and create exceptional hairstylists.

Leyna

Hair Design Instructor

After 13 years as a successful hairstylist in several high-end salons in Victoria, Leyna decided to take her love of hair design and combine it with her love of teaching to become one of our outstanding AOE Hair Design Instructors.

In addition to top-level management and leadership experience in the beauty industry, Leyna brings with her a calming and nurturing energy that helps guide students on their educational path. She truly cares about each and every person she works with and encourages all of her students to achieve their personal best each and every day. Leyna is inspired by the work she does and by the students she has the unique opportunity to teach and mentor.

“All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them.” – Walt Disney

Caitlin Vodnoski

Esthetic/Spa Therapy Instructor

Caitlin has had a passion for the beauty industry starting from a young age, she used to cut her barbies hair then went on to giving her family pedicures. Caitlin started working in a spa/ salon in 2004. As a spa attendant and receptionist in her hometown of Yellowknife, NT then went to study at Blanche Macdonald in Vancouver. After her esthetics course she decided to take Hair Styling at MC College in Edmonton, Alberta and obtained her Journeyman/ Red Seal in 2010. Caitlin also worked as a Freelance Makeup Artist for Christian Dior Cosmetics as well as doing bridal parties before she found her passion for mineral makeup. Caitlin has taken various advanced courses whether it was for hair, makeup or esthetics and has also worked at many professional hair shows.

Caitlin worked for SST Cosmetics for several years travelling across the country, sharing her knowledge of cosmetics while developing certification classes for Hair Stylists and Esthetician’s to become certified makeup artists. After working at an organic spa/ apothecary in Edmonton she became even more passionate about green beauty. With her skills and calm nurturing personality, she would like to be an inspiration to all students and to see them excel in this exciting industry. The Academy of Excellence is honored and grateful to have Caitlin on the team and share her knowledge.

“The best way to observe a fish is to become a fish”- Jacques Cousteau

Clarissa

Salon/Spa Co-ordinator

As the first point of contact when entering the school, Clarissa creates a warm and welcoming environment for students, clients, guests and staff. With over nine years of experience as a hair stylist and nail technician, Clarissa also brings a knowledgeable and upbeat flow to the clinic floor.

Clarissa’s vibrant personality, bright smile and love for customer service sets the stage for our amazing AOE culture. We are excited to have her as part of our thriving AOE team!

“Happiness and hiking go hand in hand, or foot in boot. -Diane Spicer

The team at the Academy binds together like family. We are stronger together because we truly have caring hearts!

Free Academy Tour

Choosing a school should be fun and informative! The first step is to schedule a tour to visit the campus and meet with our Registrar. Allow us to answer your questions, show you the campus, and see first-hand what it’s like to be an Academy student! If you feel the Academy of Excellence is a good fit, you can schedule an interview and proceed with the enrollment process.

Lets Make This Your Year! Let Us Get You All The Info You Need. Don't Sit On The Sidelines. We're Friendly And Love Helping. Book A Free Tour Of The Academy.

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