The legacy of an institution is often a reflection of its founders’ dreams and the torchbearers who continue to carry their vision forward. The Louisville Beauty Academy, a Kentucky State-Licensed and State-Accredited Beauty College, is a living tribute to such a legacy, shaped by Janet Orick Rowland and her husband Robert (Bob) Rowland, and now carried forward by Di Tran and his wife Vy Truong.
Janet Rowland, a pioneer of the cosmetology education industry, founded the Hair Design School in 1972. It was her foresight and dedication that nurtured the institution from a single building at 1049 Bardstown Rd to a network of six campuses that empowered thousands of beauty professionals. Janet’s leadership transcended her own business, as she influenced the cosmetology industry at national, state, and local levels.
When the time came to pass on this beacon of learning, it was Di Tran and Vy Truong who met with Janet and Robert. Despite initial reservations—since the building was intended for their children—Janet and Robert recognized in Di and Vy the same passion for cosmetology education. They decided to sell the building and, more importantly, impart their wisdom and experience to these new custodians of their dream.
Today, Louisville Beauty Academy stands as a testament to this seamless transition of values and vision. Di Tran has grown the academy into a haven for over a thousand graduates, with a special focus on serving the immigrant community and embracing diversity in all its forms.
In a deeply moving tribute to his predecessors, Di Tran stands before a wall, a labor of love created by Janet, which he has pledged to preserve. This wall, adorned with the names of graduates, is more than a physical structure—it is a symbol of continuity and respect, a reminder of the Rowlands’ indelible mark on the beauty industry.
The story of the Louisville Beauty Academy is not merely one of succession but of honoring a rich heritage. Di Tran and Vy Truong, guided by the values instilled by Janet and Robert Rowland, are writing the next chapter in this storied institution’s life. It’s a narrative that underscores the importance of mentorship, respect for one’s predecessors, and a commitment to broadening the horizons for the next generation of beauty industry professionals.
The Louisville Beauty Academy, under the stewardship of Di Tran, is a staircase to success, built on the foundation laid by Janet and Robert Rowland, reaching ever upward, inspiring countless others to ascend.
