History

The Salon Professional Academy began as Professional Cosmetology Institute, the realization of founder Marian Lokken's dream. Her lifelong interest in quality education for her Finesse Salons led her to create an institute of cosmetology in June 1978 in Ames, Iowa with husband Clayton and daughter Mary.

Marian passed away in 1992 and Mary took over leadership of Finesse and PCI. She hired Randy Kunkel, founder of KRS Consulting Group, in 1999 to help her grow the salons and the school. Long-time stylist/manager Angie Torgeson became co-owner of both companies in 1999.

In 2002 Mary moved to Minnesota where she and Angie started SPA~a School (Salon Professionals Academy). In 2005, PCI and SPA became TSPA.

Marian's dream has been renewed time and again. Mary, Angie and Randy Kunkel created a school model that has been copied by more than 30 TSPAs around the country. That's right; we are the original - The Salon Professional Academy!