McKenzie joins SCC’s cosmetology full-time instructor staff

Following a promotion from part-time cosmetology instructor at the beginning of the fall 2025 semester, Jessica McKenzie is one of Southeastern Community College’s newest full-time cosmetology instructors. McKenzie, a Bladenboro native, brings eight years of cosmetology experience to the program and is ready to inspire and train the next generation of hair, nail and skin care professionals in Columbus County.  

“Ever since I was a small child, I always knew I wanted to do hair and nails,” McKenzie said. “I started doing cosmetology in high school, so it just blossomed from there.” 

McKenzie is a 2009 graduate of West Bladen High School. She earned a cosmetology diploma from Strand College of Hair Design in Myrtle Beach in 2017, and she obtained her instructor’s license in 2018. McKenzie joined the small business owner community in 2022 with her salon, Polish Me Pretty, in Whiteville. 

Specializing in nails, McKenzie joined the Rams Fam as a part-time cosmetology instructor in the fall of 2024. With ambitions of joining full-time, McKenzie enrolled in SCC’s Associate in Applied Science degree cosmetology program, where she is currently teaching classes and working on her associates degree.  

Assisting students on the salon floor and teaching a manicuring class occupies most of McKenzie’s day at SCC. With a high number of advanced students earning their state board required hours on the salon floor, it is also required that a second full-time instructor be present in addition to the cosmetology program’s lead instructor, Eli Murillo.  

“I will also be assisting with the nail portion of Eli’s cosmetology theory class,” McKenzie said. “Nails are my true passion, but I also love doing facials and waxing, too.” 

Building strong relationships with her students is her favorite part of the job so far, McKenzie explained. When it comes to applying acrylic and the intricate details of nail art, McKenzie said she loves “a challenge.” Cutting, coloring and braiding sew-ins are her favorite part of hair care.  

McKenzie’s first attempt at SCC’s cosmetology program ended in withdrawal when “life got in the way” after high school with having to work to provide for her family. Returning to SCC in 2024 as an adult learner and as a part-time instructor, McKenzie knew that teaching and passing on her knowledge to new students was her true calling. 

When McKenzie finishes her college duties each day, she is ready to take on clients at her salon. She said she loves teaching and being a small business owner equally. McKenzie advised all students entering the cosmetology program to stay focused and knowledgeable of trends.  

Outside of work, McKenzie enjoys spending time with her two children, Jay’shawn,17, and Jay’niyla, 11. She enjoys nature, traveling and animals – especially fish and dogs.   

Ready to join Jessica McKenzie on the salon floor as her student? Click here to learn more about the cosmetology program.