Meet Our Staff

Nikki Parcells
LC, LCI, CLT, CLI, ITEC
President

Where are you from?
Framingham, Massachusetts

What brought you to Penrose Academy?
I joined Penrose Academy to contribute and make an impact. I wanted to be a part of a mission-driven community, focused on inspiring the next generation of industry professionals. 

What would you consider your biggest strength?
I’d say dependability—I’m someone people can count on.

Describe yourself with one word.
Pragmatic.

Bridget O’Brien
BA, LE
Senior Director of Admissions & Community Engagement

What is an interesting fact about you?

I have lived abroad and in 5 different states.

What’s your perfect day like?

Attending a concert, I love any type of live music.

Who or what inspires you?

Music. Great songs have the ability to influence and change any mood.

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

Helping students become a better version of themselves.

Cheri Parcells
Senior Director of Operations & Guest Relations

Where are you from?
Phoenix, AZ

What is an interesting fact about you?
I have 2 turtles.

Someday I’d really like to…
Travel the world with my husband.

Why did you choose to work at Penrose Academy?
I love the atmosphere and the staff and students are all amazing!

Candice Healey
LE, CLT, CLI, LSO
Director of Medical Services

Where are you from?
Leamington, Ontario Canada

Who or what inspires you?
People who give without expectation.

What is one of your greatest strengths?
My sweet laser skills.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose?
The culture based on honesty and integrity.

Andria Young
Director of Student Services | Placement & Title IX Coordinator

Where are you from?

BORN AND RAISED IN THE VALLEY OF THE SUN!!
Phoenix, AZ 😊

What is an interesting fact about you?

I own a dalmatian!

What does your perfect day look like?

Attending a music festival with friends!

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

Guiding students through their program and seeing them find their niche in the professional beauty industry!

Haleigh Trout
LC, LCI
Director of Education & Deputy Title IX Coordinator

Where are you from?

Reno, NV

What is an interesting fact about you?

I was raised by a single dad.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I went to Penrose for my cosmetology license, and I knew I wanted to come back to work here.

What’s your perfect day like?

Spent with my daughter and husband.

Alyssa Garza
Admissions Coordinator

Coming Soon!

Clare Zinn
Enrollment Services Coordinator

Coming Soon!

Jordan Schmidtke
Admissions Coordinator

Where are you from?

Born and raised in Gilbert Arizona!

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I enjoyed my experience at Penrose Academy as an Esthetician student. I wanted to continue that experience and help potential students discover their love for the industry just as I did.

Describe yourself in one word?

Learner—Never stop learning!

Someday, you’d really like to …

Travel with my partner!

Kim Goedker
Enrollment Services Coordinator

Where are you from?

Columbus, Ohio

What is an interesting fact about you?

I weirdly tuck in my ears when I sleep.

Describe yourself in one word.

Adventurous.

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

I like making future and current students feel comfortable for their journey here at Penrose!

Yessenia Torres
Enrollment Services Coordinator

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Phoenix, AZ.

Who or what inspires you?

Cliché, but my mom. She is quite literally the strongest person I know.

What is one of your greatest strengths?

One of my greatest strengths is being a great listener.

What is a quote you live by?

A quote I live by is “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.” – Mother Teresa

Yolanda Robinson
LE
Admissions Coordinator

Where are you from?

Born & raised in Detroit, Michigan

What is one of your greatest strengths?

I believe one of my greatest strengths is my ability to adapt to the ever-changing experiences life presents.

Describe yourself in one word.

Tenacious

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

After graduating from Penrose and entering the beauty industry, I began to explore my deeper ‘why’ beyond simply providing services. I realized my true passion lies in empowering others—helping them build meaningful relationships, foster connections, and face challenges with confidence.

What better way to inspire the next generation of beauty professionals than by connecting with them at the very start of their journey, when their excitement for the industry is at its peak? Even better, doing so at a place like Penrose, where we take pride in empowering and uplifting others!

What does your perfect day look like?

Waking up, counting my blessings & doing whatever I want! I’d love to “Dilly Dally” every day! 

Who or what inspires you?

I do it for the younger “Yolanda”. I think I would be someone she would be proud of! What keeps me going is my Babygirl. 

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

For me, the relationships/friendships I have built. I moved to AZ with no friends, family, or connections. Seven years later, I have friends who have turned into family & now I am well-connected in the industry.

Dabrienne Lewis
LC
Student Services & Events Coordinator I Cosmetology Educator

Where are you from?

Born and raised in Paradise Valley, Arizona.

What is one of your greatest strengths?

I pride myself in having integrity.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I valued my exceptional experience at the school and wanted to be a part of the amazing culture.

Who or what inspires you?

My mother. She is a strong, independent, intelligent, hard working woman.

MacKenzie Sturgill
Student Services Assistant

Where are you from?

Cave Creek, Arizona

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I used to be a student here at Penrose and just absolutely loved it and knew I wanted to come back and work here.  

Describe yourself in one word?

Easy-going

Someday, you’d really like to …

Have a vacation home in another country!

Shea Carouchi
LE
Student Services & Events Coordinator | Esthetics Educator

Where are you from?

Chicago, IL

What is an interesting fact about you?

I received my first degree in American Sign Language (ASL).

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I loved my time here during school. I felt so encouraged and supported and I can’t wait to be able to provide that for future students.

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

Being an esthetician, you help others feel beautiful and comfortable in their own skin. As an educator, I’m able to share my passion and knowledge to help students find their passion within the industry.

Alex Ulrich
LC, LCI
Cosmetology Educator

Coming Soon!

Aliesia Vazquez
LE, LEI
Esthetics Educator

Where are you from?

Staten Island, New York

What is one of your greatest strengths?

Adaptability

What is an interesting fact about you?

I can play the drums and did aerial silks for two years

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

I love being a beacon of hope and light for those that may be struggling with their skin. Being able to assist people in feeling confident and comfortable in their skin is the best reward.

Allie Edel
LC, LCI
Cosmetology Educator

Where are you from?

I’m from Scottsdale, AZ; I grew up one block away from Penrose Academy.

What is one of your greatest strengths?

Being able to think about things from all perspectives.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I did martial arts for 9 years.

Who or what inspires you?

My dad inspires me to be a hard worker and be as kind of a person as I can be.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I went here 10 years ago, and it has always been an amazing school. It’s somehow even better than when I went here, and it has always been a goal of mine to be a part of it again.

Annie Gandara
LC, LCI
Cosmetology Educator

Describe yourself in one word:

Dependable.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I heard only wonderful things about Penrose and wanted to shift into educational role in the industry.

Who or what inspires you?

Strong, motivated people with vision and integrity.

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

The most rewarding part of my profession is being able to connect with people and be a positive factor in their life. I love to hear how much they look forward to and value the time they get to be themselves and decompress in my chair.

Bee DeSantis
Cosmetology Educator

Where are you from?

Phoenix, AZ. A born and raised desert rat 🐀🏜️

What is one of your greatest strengths? 

That I can get along with everyone I meet and can relate to everyone in some way.

Who or what inspires you?

My daughter because of her empathy and compassion toward others; she’s so kind; and my husband for the way he handles life in general. He’s the most hardworking and levelheaded person I know, and he never lets things bother him.

Someday, you’d really like to…

Travel all over the place with my family.

Briette Flake
LE, CLT
Laser Educator

Where are you from?

Snowflake, Az

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

My heart just keeps pulling me back to Penrose. The culture is just different here and I love it. 

Describe yourself in one word.

Driven

What does your perfect day look like?

Surrounded by my people on a beach. (Completely covered and slathered in SPF of course)

Who or what inspires you?

As cliche as it sounds my family and friends. They push me to be the best I can be and are my biggest cheerleaders. 

What is one of your greatest strengths?

I’m always trying to learn and trying to better myself. 

What is a quote you live by?

“What if it doesn’t come true? Ah but what if it does?”

Drenise Matthews
Cosmetology Educator

Where are you from?

Phoenix, AZ.

What’s your perfect day like?

Moderately busy, full of laughter.

Who or what inspires you?

Our community.

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

It’s impossible to get bored. There is always something new to learn.

Hunny Parson
Laser Educator

Where are you from?

Born and raised in AZ.🌵

What is one of your greatest strengths?

Passion, Fearlessness, and Drive.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I decided to work at Penrose Academy because of its vibrant community, where I can truly thrive! Being part of this environment that once felt like home to me as a student inspires me to help others chase their dreams. Plus, how amazing is it to work with cool lasers every day? It’s the perfect blend of passion and innovation! 🌹✨

Who or what inspires you?

God and my family.

Jessica Spillman
LE
Esthetics Educator

What is one of your greatest strengths?

One of my greatest strengths is relating to my clients and being able to make them feel comfortable in any service.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I decided to come to work at Penrose because I loved it so much as a student! I work at a medspa in Scottsdale and realized I love training new estheticians and teaching clients about skin; so it only felt natural.

What does your perfect day like?

My perfect day is waking up, going to brunch and watching football on a nice patio somewhere!

Who or what inspires you?

My Mom inspires me. She is the greatest person I know.

Jodi Denk
LE, LEI
Esthetics Educator

Where are you from?

  I was born and raised in Phoenix Arizona. One of the few natives I guess you can say.

 Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

 I have a passion for the beauty industry and I wanted to share that passion with others and what better way than to come back to the very place that gave me that passion and teach alongside the greatest educators and staff at Penrose. 

 Describe yourself in one word?

 Spunky

 Someday, you’d really like to …

 Someday I’d really like to travel the world & see places I see online or in travel magazines and just experience the world and different cultures. 

Kolleen Rice
LC, LCI
Cosmetology Educator

Where are you from?

Born and raised in Phoenix.

What is one of your greatest strengths?

Greatest strength? Maybe empathy, compassion, and reliability. Oh you only needed one?!?! 🤣

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

Going to school here was the best year of my life, so why would I not want to do that every day as my job?! 💛

Who or what inspires you?

The students. Watching and witnessing their challenges and growth! And Brad Mondo, sooooo funny.

Madison Johnson
LE
Esthetics Educator

Where are you from?

Glendale, AZ.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I love to sing!

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I came to school here and it was one of the greatest decisions I’ve made thus far and since going to school I wanted to be an educator here!

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

Being able to share my passion and knowledge with others! I love helping others whenever I can!

Madison Smith
LE, LEI, CLT
Esthetics Educator

Where are you from?
I was born in Wisconsin, grew up in Prescott, AZ and now reside in Cave Creek.

What is one of your greatest strengths?
I have grown to be a good listener over the years.

Why did you choose to work at Penrose Academy?
I love to share my knowledge with all of the students and guests. I need to have pride in my place of employment and I have lots in Penrose Academy as a graduate and now employee!

What’s an interesting face about you?
I never really learned to ride a bike.

Natalie Gotsis
Esthetics Educator

Coming Soon!

Olga Cordova
LE
Esthetics Educator

Coming soon!

Parci Flake
LC, LCI
Education Manager & Cosmetology Educator

Where are you from?

Snowflake, AZ

Who or what inspires you?

My mom is a teacher and I have always watched how she interacts with others and it makes me want to be just like her.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I love the culture and curriculum. They combine nicely making an amazing schooling experience for students.

Describe yourself in one word.

Caring.

Rachel Sheets
LC, LCI, LE, LEI, CLT, LSO
Esthetics & Cosmetology Educator

What is an interesting fact about you?

I received my cosmetology, esthetics and laser licenses all before the age of 22! 

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I love the beauty industry and wanted to be a part of Penrose’s amazing culture. 

Who or what inspires you?

My mom, she is the most intelligent woman I know and my biggest supporter.

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

Helping others and pushing myself to grow as a person.

Steffi Toth
LE, LEI
Esthetics Manager, Esthetics Educator & Deputy Title IX Coordinator

Where are you from?

Los Angeles, California

What is an interesting fact about you?

I speak fluent Hungarian.

What’s your perfect day like? 

Being outdoors hiking or kayaking.

What about your profession do you find most rewarding?

The ability to see students reach their potential.

Tarajah Johnson
LC
Cosmetology Student Educator

Where are you from?

I’m from sunny California.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I’m a 3-time worlds champion cheerleader.

What is one of your greatest strengths?

My greatest strength is my ability to go through life smiling even when it’s hard I generally lead with kindness and compassion I’m a glass half-full girl.

Who or what inspires you?

My son; he’s such a smart little guy in a world not quite built for him. Being on the spectrum is hard, and he’s just rocking through life, not letting anything get in his way.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

It’s an educational environment unlike most in this industry. My fellow educators are unmatched, and I’m excited to be here. 

Tyler McDonald
LE, CLT
Laser Educator

Where are you from?

Camp Verde, Arizona

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I decided to work at Penrose because I was previously a student here and loved it.

Describe yourself in one word?

Outgoing

Someday, you’d really like to …

Someday I’d really like to work at Penrose as an educator.

Alexa Hernadez
Guest Relations Coordinator

What is one of your greatest strengths?

I am a very bubbly and talkative person; I love to interact with people and entertain them.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I was a nighttime esthetician student and just formed bonds with the educators and staff, and after graduating I missed my time here and decided to come back and they accepted me with open arms.

Describe yourself in one word.

Funny😛

Araceli Mendoza
Front Desk Manager

Where are you from?

San Jose, California 

What is an interesting fact about you?

I played basketball for 5 years.

Why did you decide to work at Penrose Academy?

I love the industry and I love the culture! 

Describe yourself in one word.

Determined.

Breanna Landa
Guest Relations Coordinator

Coming Soon!

Briseyda Lopez
Guest Relations Coordinator

Coming Soon!

Khaila Matthews
Guest Relations Coordinator

GuWhat is one of your greatest strengths?

Adaptability! I am both a leader and a team member.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I am a backup dancer for local drag and femme queens!

What does your perfect day like?

Wake up in the morning, no alarm clock. Hot cup of coffee before a nice conditioning pole fitness class. Then spending the rest of the day with my boyfriend and family. Playing games with my 3 beautiful nieces and eating lots and LOTS of food!

Someday, you’d really like to …

Produce, choreograph, cast and perform in an original evening length production.

Wendy Torres
Guest Relations Team Lead

Where are you from? 

Glendale, Arizona

What does a perfect day look like? 

A perfect day would be taking care of my dogs in the morning while I make and enjoy my breakfast. I then journal and do my Bible study for the day. After I take my dogs for a walk to the park, I come home, rest and catch up on my TV shows. Then prepare dinner for my family and end the night on FaceTime with my boyfriend.

What is one of your greatest strengths? 

Being empathetic.

Describe yourself in one word? 

Dynamic

Yazania Romero
Guest Relations Coordinator

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Trenton, New Jersey to Costa Rican Parents.

What is an interesting fact about you?

I am an avid dancer. I grew up loving dance and became a pro dancer at 15. I know how to dance most latin and ballroom styles, from Samba all the way to Waltz.

What is one of your greatest strengths?

I always find a way to relate to a person. Whether it be through music or even personal beliefs, I always try to hear and consider each person’s convictions in an objective way.

What is a quote you live by?

“Live and let live.” -Gerard de Malynes