EAST LANSING, Mich. - s4story -- East Lansing, Mich. — Douglas J Institutes has been named the winner of the 2026 Golden School Award for Student Salon & Spa by the American Association of Career Schools (AACS) during the AACS Annual Conference held in Las Vegas last week.

This award recognizes the institution's commitment to providing students with meaningful, real-world experience while delivering quality services to salon and spa guests.

The Golden School Awards (https://myaacs.org/golden-school-award/) recognize excellence across the beauty, barbering, and wellness education industries. The Student Salon & Spa category honors schools that demonstrate strong salon and spa operations, provide students with opportunities to practice their skills in a professional environment, and deliver positive guest experiences.

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At Douglas J Institutes, student salon and spa experiences are an integral part of career preparation for students. Through hands-on training and guidance from experienced educators, students can develop and master technical skills and confidence before stepping out into their beauty and wellness careers.

"This award is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the dedication our teams bring to the student and guest experience every day," said Co-Owner and President Scott Weaver. "Our student salons and spas are where education comes to life. Students have the opportunity to put their skills into practice while learning the importance of exceptional service. Most importantly, they build the confidence and interpersonal skills they need to take the next step in their careers. We're incredibly proud of our educators, students, and salon and spa teams who make this experience possible."

This recognition highlights the collaborative effort behind Douglas J's student salon and spa operations, where education and guest service work hand in hand. By creating an environment that mirrors the expectations of a professional salon or spa, Douglas J allows students to connect classroom learning with practical experience while serving guests in their communities. In 2025, the Douglas J Institute East Lansing campus alone eclipsed more than $1 million in total service and retail sales while serving nearly 35,000 guests. When it came to reviews, 1,500 Google reviews came in with an average 4.6 stars.

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With more than 60 years of experience in beauty education, Douglas J Institutes continues to prepare aspiring beauty and wellness professionals through career-focused programs and hands-on learning opportunities. This national recognition reinforces the institution's ongoing commitment to student development, professional excellence, and the guest experience.

About Douglas J Institutes & Salons

Douglas J Institutes & Salons is a beauty and wellness education and salon organization with more than 60 years of experience in the industry. Douglas J offers career-focused education designed to prepare students for opportunities in the beauty and wellness fields, alongside salon and spa services that connect professional education with real-world experience. Learn more at douglasj.edu.