THE FOLLOWING IS A DANVILLE AREA COMMUNITY COLLEGE RELEASE
ABOVE: Instructor Terry Gouard , Pyro Harris , Keyon Carter , Dani Staple , Terri Hall, Michael Shutes , Eljadon Battle , Tommy Harris , Destiny Parker , Maribelle Carillo
DANVILLE –Danville Area Community College’s new Barbering program, led by licensed instructor and experienced barber shop owner Terry Gouard II, launched in January 2025 and is already making a strong impact both in and out of the classroom.
In February, students traveled to the Doubletree Conference Center in Alsip, Illinois, to attend a professional barbering competition and expo. There, they observed top-level competitions in categories like fast fade, best design, and total look; attended educational classes; and explored the latest tools and products in the industry. One student, Dani Staple Butler, even competed, with fellow student Pyro Harris serving as her model.
Locally, the program celebrated its grand opening by offering 63 free haircuts to community members. Nine students provided haircuts for men, women, and children, gaining valuable hands-on experience while serving the community. “We figured offering free haircuts to this community would be beneficial for the students as well as the community,” said Gouard. “It helps students build clientele and gain confidence for their future in the barber industry.”
Gouard’s dedication to education and mentorship was recently recognized at the 59th annual Lincoln-Douglass-King Banquet, held on February 15 at New Life Church of Faith in Danville, where he received the Business Award for his commitment to training the next generation of barbers at DACC.
The Barbering program is offered at DACC’s Village Mall location and features a modern classroom and a 14-station barber clinic open to the public. Students can pursue either a two-semester certificate or a four-semester Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. Classes run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with financial aid available and no prerequisites required.
According to the Illinois Career Information System, barbering jobs are expected to grow by 7.5%, with many opportunities for self-employment. DACC’s program prepares students with real-world experience, skills, and confidence to meet that demand.
Danville Area Community College is a comprehensive community college serving Illinois District 507, which consists of Vermilion County and parts of Champaign, Iroquois, Edgar, and Ford counties. DACC’s main campus is located at 2000 East Main Street, Danville. The College has a higher-learning center in Hoopeston at 847 E. Orange. To apply to DACC, call 217-443-3222 or visit the Web site at www.DACC.EDU.
