Tricoci University of Beauty Culture Student Named Best Overall Winner in National Student Stylist of the Year Competition

CHICAGO, Sept. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Tricoci University of Beauty Culture is proud to announce that Jessena Fields, a cosmetology student at the Libertyville campus, has been named the Best Overall Winner of the second annual Student Stylist of the Year competition by L'Oréal Professional Products and the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS).

This year's competition received more than 200 submissions from beauty school students from across the country, making it the largest year of submissions to date. Fields earned the top honor with an editorial hairstyle inspired by the Black Peacock, a concept representing the confidence to showcase creativity and step into one's own.

"Just like a peacock eventually spreads its feathers, this competition gave me the opportunity to showcase what I knew I had inside all along," said Fields.

Fields created the look in approximately four days, incorporating geometric braiding patterns, Freetress braiding hair, Redken Shades EQ and strategically placed feathers. 

"Tricoci is incredibly proud to see Jessena shine on a national stage. She has embraced every opportunity to learn and grow, and this competition allowed her to showcase not only her technical skills, but the creativity and individuality that make her such a promising artist," said Daved Dolce, her mentor at Tricoci University's Libertyville campus. 

The award holds special meaning for Fields, who moved home from Georgia to attend Tricoci University and pursue her passion for cosmetology. Inspired by her mother, a former Tricoci student, Fields grew up around the salon industry and has developed a particular passion for hair color and editorial artistry.

"Tricoci has challenged me in the best way possible," said Fields. "I've been surrounded by educators, administrators, and classmates who genuinely want to see me succeed. They constantly push me to step outside my comfort zone, believe in my creativity, and strive to be better every day."

After graduation, she plans to continue working in a salon with aspirations to educate stylists, teach techniques, and inspire others throughout the professional beauty industry. A Zion, Illinois native, Fields can be followed professionally on social media at @hairbysenaa.

For more information about Tricoci University of Beauty Culture and its programs, please visit tricociuniversity.edu or connect with us on social media: Instagram: @tricociuniversity, Facebook: @TricociUniversity, TikTok: @tricociuniversity and YouTube: @TricociU.

About Tricoci University of Beauty Culture

Tricoci University of Beauty Culture is a premier beauty education provider with 15 campuses throughout Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. Tricoci University is focused on producing salon-ready graduates who are prepared for successful careers in the beauty industry. Founded by international beauty industry leader Mario Tricoci, Tricoci University is developing a new type of beauty professional by using innovative teaching methods, an interactive learning platform, and upscale facilities. All guest services are provided by students under the supervision of licensed instructors. For more information about Tricoci University of Beauty Culture please visit tricociuniversity.edu

SOURCE Tricoci University of Beauty Culture