Donita Mitchell
Donita Mitchell, cosmetology instructor in Triton College’s Cosmetology Program, traces her passion for the beauty industry back to her childhood—a dream first inspired by her sister.
“My sister would often daydream about us moving to California and working for Black Entertainment Television (BET),” Mitchell recalled fondly.
She remembers being captivated by the sparkling lights of Hollywood and the possibility of styling celebrities for red carpet events.
“My sister would often say to me, ‘The moment we graduate from high school, we will move to Hollywood,’” Mitchell said.
But after graduating from Proviso West High School, Mitchell’s life took a different turn. She enrolled at Triton College and became a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). After earning her associate degree, she pursued several career paths—but her goal of becoming a cosmetologist never faded.
“I started working on other people’s hair, and I was getting a lot of compliments on my own hair,” she said. “I knew this was a sign to make it happen.”
Determined to follow her passion while supporting her family, Mitchell attended cosmetology school at night while working during the day. After earning her cosmetology and esthetic license, she opened her own salon.
With encouragement from her family, Mitchell took the next step and earned a certificate to teach cosmetology.
“My mom and sister knew that I was going to be a cosmetologist,” Mitchell said, her eyes welling with tears. “My sister lost her battle with cancer before I completed cosmetology school, which is why I was so passionate to finish what we started together and keep going.”
Although she may not have made it to Hollywood, Mitchell said “teaching students is just as rewarding. I love the thrill of students telling me that they passed their tests and state boards. It feels good knowing that I’m training licensed professionals.”
After teaching at other institutions, Mitchell joined Triton College as an instructor in January 2025. She’s proud of the program and confident that it stays at the forefront of industry trends and techniques.
Mitchell’s students dive into all aspects of cosmetology—hair coloring, cutting, weaving, wigs, skincare and more—while also learning the science behind the services. The curriculum covers everything from anatomy and the nervous system to the biology of the scalp, nails and skin.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for cosmetologists is projected to grow 7 percent from 2023 to 2033—faster than the average for all occupations. The growing popularity of hair coloring, straightening, and other advanced treatments is expected to drive demand throughout the next decade.
“Triton’s Cosmetology Certificate program is both cost- and time-effective,” said Mitchell. “There are endless possibilities for success.”
Learn more about Triton’s Cosmetology Program at www.triton.edu/cosmetology.