MERIDIAN —
Three years ago, Louisville native Coretta Johnson unselfishly gave up her career in the mental health field to move to Meridian and help care for her aging grandmother, Mamie Johnson.
The move proved to be Johnson's first step toward the pursuit of a lifelong dream – a career in cosmetology.
"Cosmetology has been something I have been interested in my entire life," said Johnson, who holds a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from Mississippi State University.
"When I moved to Meridian to care for my grandmother, I enrolled in cosmetology school at Meridian Community College and fell in love with it," she said. "After I earned my cosmetology certificate, I decided to pursue my cosmetology instructor certification."
On Friday, Johnson will be the first student instructor graduate from MCC's Cosmetology Program.
While cutting hair is her favorite aspect of her profession, Johnson said she, like all good cosmetologists, specializes in healthy hair and satisfying her customers.
Commenting on the common misconception that cosmetologists are only trained to cut and style hair, Johnson said the field is wide open and offers many opportunities to students.
"I was recently certified to use an electric nail drill," she said. "Yes, cosmetologists are licensed to cut, color and style hair, but we also perform manicures, pedicures, provide skin care and so much more."
Johnson lists Meridian cosmetologist and MCC Cosmetology Program instructor Cynthia F. Kennedy as her mentor.
The cosmetology program is not Johnson's only ties to MCC. She is also supervisor of Thornton Hall, the campus' female dormitory.
"I love MCC and I am grateful for all the opportunities it has provided me," she said.
Away from campus, Johnson enjoys shopping, traveling, live music, fishing and spending time with family and friends.
Her memberships include the Mississippi Cosmetology Association, the Mississippi Independent Beauticians Association and the Escape Book Club. She is a member of Maple Springs United Methodist Church.
Johnson is the daughter of Mayor William and Linda Johnson, who are both graduates of Alcorn State University and encouraged her to attend college. She has one brother, Byron Johnson.
After graduation, Johnson plans to continue working at MCC and Fisher's Beauty Salon. Her long-term goal is to be an entrepreneur in the cosmetology field.
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Star of The Week: Coretta Johnson
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