The Ulster BOCES Adult Career Education Cosmetology program is thrilled to announce the addition of a 300 hour Natural Hair Styling class for NYS licensure beginning October 8, taught by a highly experienced and celebrated stylist, Johnah Incardona. With more than 25 years of experience in the beauty industry, Incardona brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom.

Incardona, the owner of Stella Bella Beauty in Kingston, has had an impressive career in the beauty industry, beginning with her completion of the Ulster BOCES Cosmetology program in 1999. Since then, she has been a cornerstone of the Kingston beauty scene, spending 16 years styling hair in three major fast-paced salons before establishing her own business, Stella Bella Beauty. 

Incardona specializes in a wide array of hair care techniques, including braiding, weaving, cutting, relaxers, extensions, color, and hair replacement. Her expertise also extends to cosmetic services such as makeup, nails, eyebrows, eyelashes, waxing, pedicures, and spa treatments.

“Her comprehensive knowledge and commitment to continuous education ensure she remains at the forefront of the latest trends and techniques in the beauty industry and was the right person to teach this new course offered at the Ulster BOCES Adult Career Education Center,” said Michelle Combs, Student Support Services Manager: Adult Health Occupations, at Ulster BOCES.

“As a stylist, client, and business owner, I’ve seen firsthand the demand for education in natural hair care,” Incardona said. “Many people in our community, especially women of color and families, lack access to proper knowledge and services for natural hair. This class is a vital step in addressing these needs, providing affordable and achievable hair care education for everyone,” 

“It is important for Ulster BOCES to offer this new Natural Hair class, which promises to fill a significant gap in the education and services available in the Hudson Valley region,” said Coleen Macaluso, Assistant Director of Adult Education at Ulster BOCES. “This program is not only about hair care, but also about empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to achieve their beauty goals and maintain grooming standards that are essential in this field and business community.”

Successful completion of the 300-hour course at Ulster BOCES, starting October 8, 2024, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3:30-8:30 PM, will allow students to sit for the NYS Natural Hair Styling Exam. A cosmetology license is not required. For more information about the Natural Hair class or to schedule an admissions appointment, please email mcombs@ulsterboces.org or call 845-331-5050 x2262.