Leticia Ortiz Kirkwood: A Journey to Leadership

Leticia Ortiz Kirkwood's path to becoming the Director of the Hair Society Institute of Cosmetology is a testament to passion, resilience, and the power of transformation. A Puerto Rican-Dominican woman raised in the Bronx, NY, Leticia's journey began in the vibrant and art-filled streets of New York City. A professional ballet dancer and contemporary music choreographer, she was immersed in the arts from a young age, always passionate about beauty in all its forms.

However, it was in the world of hairstyling where Leticia's career truly flourished. At the age of 16, she began working part-time at a hair salon owned by her mother's best friend. "I had no formal training back then, just a hands-on experience," Leticia recalls. But this hands-on approach gave her the foundation for what would become a lifelong career in the beauty industry.

At 17, Leticia expanded her horizons further by starting the first modeling agency in the Bronx, while also attending a performing arts school. Fashion design, photography, dance, and modeling all formed part of her creative education, igniting a deep passion for aesthetics that would later drive her work as a cosmetologist.

Following her mother's guidance, Leticia decided to pursue formal education in cosmetology, earning her professional license. With over 33 years in the beauty industry, Leticia's journey has been one of continuous learning and growth. She credits much of her success to the mentors who guided her early on, and to her own determination to innovate and educate others.

In 2008, Leticia owned and operated Hair Safari Salon in Florida. But after the economic downturn, she and her family relocated to Williston, ND, in 2010. As a single mother, Leticia's career in cosmetology became her anchor, providing her with the stability needed to care for her children during a period of uncertainty.

For 13 years, Leticia ran Hair Safari Salon in Williston, gaining a reputation for excellence. But in 2020, she decided to take her career in a new direction by opening the Hair Society Institute of Cosmetology. "I saw the gap in the industry in our area's opportunities. I wanted to give cosmetology students the foundational skills and confidence they need to succeed," she says. "I wanted to give them more than just technical knowledge; I wanted to give them the tools to transform their lives."

The school has since graduated 80 students, and Leticia has embraced the many roles required to be a successful educator. "It's not just about being a business owner," she explains. "You're a mentor, a role model, sometimes a mother, and even a counselor to your students. Every class is different, every student has their own journey, and I take that responsibility seriously."

Though the challenges of running a school are many, Leticia has no regrets. "It's been one of the most fulfilling decisions I've ever made," she says. "Knowing I've had a positive impact on my students, helping them build careers and develop a skill set they can rely on for their future, fills me with pride."

Through her leadership, the Hair Society Institute of Cosmetology has become a place of empowerment, where students not only learn the art of beauty but also gain confidence and direction for their lives. As Leticia continues to evolve both personally and professionally, she remains deeply committed to her mission: to build a society of beauty professionals who can use their skills to create a livelihood and a lasting impact on the world.

"I'm honored and grateful for the opportunity to be part of my students' journeys," Leticia reflects. "Thank you to everyone who has trusted me, and I look forward to welcoming the next generation of beauty professionals."

With passion, dedication, and a deep love for what she does, Leticia Ortiz Kirkwood's story is one of transformation, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to helping others shine.