COURTLAND—On July 28, 2013, Southampton High School Cosmetology students, along with Rita Yeary and Will Melby traveled to Alexandria to compete in the National Beauty Culturists League’s Cosmetology National competition. The students arrived at noon and immediately began orientation. After orientation the stylists went to work, having three hours to complete their models’ hair, makeup and overall look.

At 3 p.m. the judging began, and while they were tallying the scores, the stylists showcased their models on the runway. The winners were then announced and Southampton’s students swept the board by taking all 12 awards.

After the award ceremony, the students were invited to a parade of states. The students had a chance to talk with some of the presidents and chairpersons of the competition.

Shelby Livingston said, “I had the privilege to speak with Mrs. Lady Denson. She encouraged me to continue learning cosmetology and showcasing my talents.”

Taylor Ricks said, “I feel like it was a real life experience and opportunity to display our skills as upcoming cosmetologists and reflects our talent.” Cheyenne Yerton said, “I am so excited that I can’t wait for the next competition. I already asked Mrs. Yeary when the next one was.”

When asked about Southampton students, Dr. Cheroly Murphy, Virginia State Competition chairperson said, “They were the best behaved and professional high school students we have ever met. We enjoyed them and look forward to seeing them again. They are fantastic and will bean asset for our future industry.”

The stylists performed outstanding work in the categories of Celebrity Look Alike, Barbering, Business/Professional, and Fantasy Barbering.

Rita Yeary said, “I am proud of the work that my students have put in to their education. I know first hand that they have been practicing on their models before school let out. They have constantly been preparing and I was confident they would all come home winners. Their enthusiasm and hard work shined throughout the whole competition. No one could be prouder than me when someone says, “I wonder where that student is from” and then say “They must be from Southampton.” It makes me so proud and I am thankful for the amazing parents I have helping me, that is what makes these students successful. So many people work together to pull this off and I am so grateful. ”

The Southampton High School students advanced after winning at the state level taking, first, second and third place levels in all categories in order to compete in the national competition. To see all NBCL Competition pictures, go to http://schools.southampton.k12.va.us/education/components/album/default.php?sectiondetailid=15431&

The Winners:

Celebrity Look Alike: FIRST PLACE winner of $500 and trophy went to Jessica Jordan and her model, Lamarious Boone. Jessica styled her model as “Madea.” Jessica said, “I am so thankful to win first place. I could not have accomplished it without Mrs. Yeary. She helped me so much.”

SECOND PLACE, along with $300 and a trophy was awarded to Shelby Livingston and model Kinsey Taylor, dressed from head to toe as Marilyn Monroe.

THIRD PLACE, winner of $100 and trophy was Te’Neal Harris and her model Zakilya Holden, dressed as Sanaa Lathan.

Fantasy Barbering: FIRST PLACE went to Shelby Livingston and model, Tim Mason.

SECOND PLACE went to Cheyenne Yerton and model, Steve Branch.

THIRD PLACE went to Calli Joyner and model, Tyeon Ruffin.

Barbering: FIRST PLACE went to Calli Joyner and model, Shane Bullock. SECOND PLACE went to Shelby Livingston and model, John Livingston. THIRD PLACE went to Quache Taylor and model, Mahogany Evans.

Business/Professional: FIRST PLACE went to Calli Joyner and model, Haleigh Bretlinger.

SECOND PLACE went to Jessica Jordan and model, Samantha Stanley.

THIRD PLACE went to Cheyenne Yerton and model, Tia Wilkerson.