Christie Gonzales co-founded the Academy of Hair Design in Springfield, MO, in 1996, building it into an award-winning institution. With a degree from Missouri State University, she emphasizes a curriculum that pairs technical cosmetology skills with strong business acumen, a focus that led to winning the Springfield Small Business of the Year Award in 2020.
Based in Austin, Texas, Christie is deeply involved in community and faith-based initiatives. She serves as a board member for the Austin Bridge Builders Alliance, a Christian organization that connects local leaders. Her philanthropic efforts extend globally, demonstrating a commitment to service and creating opportunities for others through skill-based education.
Christie and her husband founded a non-profit sister school, the Dream Beauty Academy, in Kigali, Rwanda, to provide job training and economic opportunities.
Christie Gonzales
Volunteer and Board Member at Austin Bridge Builders Alliance (ABBA)
Austin, Texas, United States
Overview
Topics They Care About
Beauty Entrepreneurship
Co-founded the Academy of Hair Design with a specific focus on teaching students the business skills needed to succeed in the beauty industry.
International Philanthropy
Established a non-profit cosmetology school in Rwanda to provide practical job skills and create economic opportunities for women who have faced hardship.
Faith-based Leadership
Serves on the board of the Austin Bridge Builders Alliance, a Christian non-profit focused on connecting leaders across business, church, and non-profit sectors.
Media Appearances
Christie has no verified media appearances
Work History
8-2014
Volunteer and Board Member at Austin Bridge Builders Alliance (ABBA)
1998
Owner at Academy of Hair Design
Owner at Academy of Hair Design, Springfield, MO
Education
1989 - 1994
Bachelor's Degree from Missouri State University
More Information
Social Presence :
Prographics :
Exp : 28
Location : Austin, Texas, United States
Job Level : N/A
Designation : Volunteer and Board Member at Austin Bridge Builders Alliance (ABBA)
