About Us

Amanda Holmes is the owner and instructor for D.A.Y College of Cosmetology. With over 26 years experience as a professional cosmetologist, she has owned and operated over 3 successful salons.

Amanda is the mother of 4 boys. In December 22, 2015 she was faced with every parent’s worst nightmare, the loss of her sweet son, Austin Young, in a motor vehicle accident.  She was left devastated and heartbroken.  However, she knew that she needed to do something to honor him and his life.  He was a beautiful light that shined and touched the hearts of anyone that got the opportunity to meet him.  He was so proud of his mother and all she had accomplished. 

Amanda was awoken from sleep on November 19, 2017 with a dream to start a cosmetology college in honor of her son.  She knew she needed to name the school after her son, David Austin Young.  She was faced with many obstacles to see the fulfillment of the dream that she knew God had given her.  Amanda learned to lean on the Lord to fulfill his part and HE has always been faithful to her.  On January 22, 2018, exactly 3 years from the passing of her son and with no financial backing from anyone, she was able to obtain the current home of D.A.Y College of Cosmetology, classes soon started right after on May 22, 2018.   She noticed that the 22nd has seemed to be a significant date in her life.  

Isaiah 22:22 reads… The key of the house of David

I will lay on his shoulder;

So he shall open, and no one shall shut;

And he shall shut, and no one shall open.

Because of her passion for education and cosmetology, she has started a scholarship of $500.00 and $1,000.00 in her son’s name called, Austin Young scholarship Fund which is given to students several times a year.  

Penny has 17 years experience, and owned her own nail salon for 4 years. She retired in 2013 from nails, then came back to teach at D.A.Y. College of Cosmetology in March of 2020.

 Jessie Lee Pugh is an Aveda Graduate with 2 years in the industry. She adores her 4 year old.  Her goal with the school is to provide a quality education with an empowering mindset and for students to leave our school with the knowledge & confidence to go anywhere & do anything in this industry.