ABOUT US
Midwest Barber College originally opened in August 2011, under The Kansas School of Barbering, Inc. which was established in March 1955 and is one of the oldest continually operating schools in the state of Kansas.The school became licensed and reopened in September 2015 under New Ownership of Govan Enterprises, Inc.
Lucy W. Opit
Owner/Director of Operations
I am a native of Nairobi, Kenya and have owned and operated Barber Shops, Braid Salons and Beauty Salons in Junction City, Topeka and Manhattan for over 15 years. I bring a lot of experience to this college that I've learned over time. I attended MBC in 2011 and transferred to Metro Barber College in 2012 where I graduated and obtained my Barber License. When I heard that MBC was shutting down, as a businesswoman and a barber, I couldn't let that happen. I put my big girl pants on and bought the school before it shut down. I've always been a trailblazer in this industry and I thank this community for embracing me and my dreams. I appreciate the support and am very humbled.
During my free time, I enjoy live music, camping, hunting, traveling and the finer things in life.
Danielle Batiste
Financial Aid Advisor
Danielle is the Director of Academics and Financial Aid Advisor at Midwest Barber College. She as over 15 years of comprehensive experience in the hair industry, holding multiple licenses in Cosmetology, Cosmetology Instructor, Barber and Barber Instructor. she is also color certified in Paul Mitchell, Redken and Wella. Danielle has worked at Midwest Barber College since 2019. She is an avid Chiefs and Jayhawks fan, a Marine mom and plays the violin, banjo and guitar.
Randy Niemeier
Co-Owner/Bursar
I was born in Waterville, Kansas where I still live with my lovely wife Teri. I am a farmer/rancher/businessman. I couldn't pass the opportunity to invest in the barber industry when Lucy (my personal barber) offered me the opportunity. I am not a barber but I know a lot about the industry. I enjoy traveling and fishing.
Admissions Advisor
RENEE ANDERSON
Meet Renee Anderson, Admissions Advisor at Midwest Barber College. Renee brings over two decades of experience in the Beauty industry. Renee is a Licensed Cosmetologist, Licensed Instructor, and received training in Barbering in the State of Missouri. Renee is also a small business owner of 15 years here in Topeka, KS. Owner of Health e' Hair and Skin Care Salon LLC. Renee specializes in Hair Loss, received training and certifications as a Hair Loss Practitioner from USTI and Non-Surgical Hair replacement. I help Women, Men and Children who suffer from Alopecia. Renee is passionate about the Beauty Industry and what it has to offer. Renee is also a member of Alpha Chi Pi Omega Inc a Fraternity and Sorority for Barber and Beauty Professionals. Renee is also passionate about building healthy partnerships with community members. Renee believes in Standing on Business. Sticking to your values, following through and setting clear boundaries for yourself. Values she instills in everyone. Apart from working, Renee spends the balance of her time with family and friends.
Meet our Instructors
DARRELL “DT” TAYLOR
INSTRUCTOR
Danielle Skinner
Director of Academics
Lucy opit
Instructor
Kelly Brown
Instructor Apprentice
KELLY BROWN
Kelly was a nurse for 20 years, and decided she needed a career change in 2023 and enrolled at Midwest Barber College. Upon graduation she joined our team to start her journey to become a licensed barber instructor. In her free time Kelly enjoys spending time with her sons, walking her dog Jake and playing her crystal singing bowls
Approvals
Kansas Board of Regents
1000 SW Jackson St Suite 520, Topeka, KS 66612
Kansas Board of Barbering
700 SW Jackson ST Suite 1002 Topeka, KS 68137
Vocational Rehabilitation Services
500 SW Van Buren Ave, Topeka, KS 66612
Kansas Better Business Bureau
11811 P Street Omaha, NE
Topeka Chamber of Commerce
120 SE 6TH Ave Suite 110 Topeka, Kansas 66603