20+ Salons Partnered Statewide, 80 Students Enrolled Beginning September 9th
By Teresa Long—
MUNCIE, IN — Grace Beauty College, led by founder and state sponsor Teresa Long, proudly announces the launch of Indiana’s first state-approved Cosmetology and Barber Apprenticeship Program. The program officially begins on September 9, 2025, with more than 80 students enrolled and over 20 salons and barbershops statewide serving as training sites.
The apprenticeship program offers a groundbreaking pathway for aspiring cosmetologists and barbers to earn while they learn. Students complete online coursework while working in licensed salons, receiving hands-on training and wages as they progress toward their professional license.
“This program removes barriers,” said Teresa Long, Owner of Grace Beauty College and State Sponsor of the initiative. “Instead of taking on debt, students can gain experience, earn a paycheck, and contribute to their communities while preparing for licensure. This is what a Work Ready Indiana looks like.”
Participating salons are located in Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel, Muncie, Winchester, Anderson, Marion, Fort Wayne, and Evansville, reflecting the program’s broad reach across the state. Owners represent a diverse community of Black, White, Vietnamese, and Latino business leaders, united in their commitment to mentoring the next generation of beauty professionals.
The program builds on legislation introduced in 2021 and enacted in 2024, which created the legal framework for apprenticeships in cosmetology and barbering. Grace Beauty College is proud to serve as the first official state sponsor, working in alignment with the Indiana Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
Community organizations and leaders, including the Muncie Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce, NAACP Muncie Chapter, Indiana Black Expo Muncie Chapter, Human Rights Commission, and others, are invited to stand alongside students and salon partners at the launch.
“This is about more than beauty and barbering,” Long added. “It’s about building futures, growing small businesses, and creating opportunities that strengthen Indiana communities.”
Phone: 765-282-4797
Email: gracebeauty@att.net
About Grace Beauty College
Grace Beauty College, located in Muncie, Indiana, is the first Black-owned beauty and barber college in East Central Indiana. Established with a mission to provide affordable, accessible education and workforce opportunities, the college is now a proud sponsor of Indiana’s Cosmetology and Barber Apprenticeship Program.
