Meet Tina Strong Freeman | Owner/Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tina Strong Freeman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tina, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Take the risk! I view risk as a necessary catalyst for growth and opportunity. Rather than avoiding it, I approach risk with calculated judgment—balancing potential outcomes with preparation and resilience. Throughout my life and career, taking risks has opened doors I never anticipated, from pursuing roles outside my comfort zone to embracing change in uncertain moments. Each step forward, though sometimes daunting, has led to valuable lessons and meaningful progress.

What should our readers know about your business?
I own THE HAIR ACADEMY, a private beauty college in Fayetteville, Tennessee dedicated to empowering the next generation of beauty professionals through quality education, hands-on training, and a deep emphasis on professionalism and creativity. What sets us apart is our commitment to not only teaching the technical skills of the trade, but also nurturing confidence, business acumen, and a strong work ethic in our students. We view beauty as both an art and a career path, and our mission is to prepare students to thrive in both.
I’m incredibly proud of the impact we’ve had—watching our graduates open their own salons, lead in their fields, or transform their lives through the beauty industry is the most rewarding part of what we do. I’m especially excited about how our school continues to grow and adapt, offering more than just education—we offer a true launchpad for success.

Getting to this point wasn’t easy. I started working for the college 24+ years ago in the administrative office as a bookkeeper. I worked my way up the ladder over the years and was finally able to purchase the college when the opportunity presented itself. Like many entrepreneurs, I started with a vision but limited resources. There were financial obstacles, moments of self-doubt, and the ongoing challenge of balancing innovation with a highly regulated industry. What helped me push through was persistence, an unwavering belief in my mission and a fantastic support system. Every challenge became a lesson: how to lead with integrity, how to adapt in a fast-changing industry, and how to stay rooted in purpose even when the road is tough.

What I want the world to know is that our brand is built on integrity, authenticity, empowerment, and excellence. We’re not just teaching beauty—we’re transforming lives, one student at a time. My story, like many of our students’, is about taking a leap, working hard, and creating something meaningful. And that’s what makes our school more than just a college—it’s a community. Our student’s education is our passion!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Welcome Stroll & Comfort Food
We would start with a laid-back afternoon stroll through the quaint little downtown square, popping into some of our cutest local boutiques, antique and gift shops. For dinner, I would take them to one of our town’s cozy spots known for their home-style cooking—something warm and welcoming to kick things off. We have several neat little mom and pop restaurants in Fayetteville.

Day 2: Beauty & Self-Care Day
Of course, I would give them a little behind-the-scenes tour of my beauty college—let them see what we’re building, treat them to a student-performed manicure/pedicure or blowout! Then we would head to the school’s student spa for some extra facial pampering – a full day of beauty!

Day 3: Local History & Hidden Gems
We would visit our local museum to get a feel for the roots of our town, followed by lunch at a family-owned diner that’s been around forever and/or possibly take them to the famous Jack Daniels Distillery and quaint little town of Lynchburg, Tennessee. Fayetteville is central to Nashville and Huntsville, Alabama. There is so much to offer in our area and surrounding areas if one takes the time to research.

Day 4: Day Trip & Nature Fix
We would plan a little escape just outside town—maybe a nature trails or a nearby lake. Somewhere we can unwind and breathe. Picnic lunch, coffees, and lots of catching up. We have a few beautiful state parks within an hour drive from us. David Crockett State Park in Lawrenceburg, Tim’s Ford State Park/Lake close to Lynchburg or Henry Horton State Park in Chapel Hill. I love to hike!

Day 5: Art, Culture & Community Vibes
We would spend the day exploring local art galleries or artisan markets in Huntsville. If the timing’s right, we could hit a weekend farmers’ market or street fair. That night, dinner would be somewhere upscale but not too fussy—a restaurant with a chef-driven menu and cozy ambiance. Huntsville is now the largest city in Alabama with tons of new restaurants and cultural activities to choose from.

Day 6: Shopping, Laughs & Downtown Nightlife
We would hit up any shops we missed earlier—maybe find a vintage piece or handmade art. Then we would have dinner at one of our quaint little restaurants in town and maybe play a little trivia.

Day 7: Chill & Reflect
On our last day, would be a quiet day to reflect and just soak in the good memories.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My adult children for always believing in mom. my staff for encouraging me to take the step towards ownership and especially my business partner for taking the chance. These individuals have been instrumental in my success.

Website: https://www.thehairacademy.net

Instagram: the.hair.academy.fayetteville

Facebook: THE HAIR ACADEMY

Other: Tiktok: the.hair.academy

Image Credits
Photography: Freeman & Co, Photography, LLC – Rachael Freeman Quaife

Also, VERY IMPORTANT to please add this disclaimer under service flyers:

“All services performed by students under the supervision of licensed instructors.”

We are required to post this with any advertisements. – Thank you!