Chairman

Larry Kane is a veteran beauty industry executive whose career includes senior leadership roles with manufacturers serving salons, spas, and schools. He has extensive experience in sales, operations, and strategic partnerships, as well as prior service on the Cosmetologists Chicago and America's Beauty Show Board of Directors. Larry brings governance experience, financial acumen, and a long-standing commitment to independent beauty professionals. 

Vice Chairman

Tony Gordon is a multi-salon owner and entrepreneur who has operated award-winning salons while also serving as an educator and coach. His background includes service in the United States Air Force and extensive experience in leadership, finance, and culture building. Tony brings a thoughtful, numbers-aware perspective to strategy, education, and member engagement. 

Treasurer

Anna Manukyan is a seasoned beauty industry executive, salon professional, and educator with more than two decades of experience across salon, corporate, and education settings. She has led brand education and scholarship programs that support stylists and students. Anna combines creative insight with financial and strategic expertise, benefiting professionals at every career stage.  relations teams, supporting beauty professionals across more than 1,400 Ulta Beauty salon locations.

Secretary

Rudy Moser is a globally experienced sales executive and co-owner of A.SALON in Chicago, as well as Vice President of Sales for a growing consumer brand. He has led large teams, driven digital growth, and helped build an environmentally conscious, top-rated salon. Rudy offers strong skills in strategic planning, membership development, and digital engagement. 

Director

Director

Robert Reed is the founder and CEO of ERGO Styling Tools and has spent decades developing tools and education that improve the health, efficiency, and artistry of hairdressers. His background includes leadership roles in major professional tool companies and hands-on salon ownership. Robert focuses on ergonomics, craft, and sustainable careers for working professionals.

Director

Juan Jose Herrera is a signature hairstylist, educator, creative professional, and industry leader with nearly three decades of experience in bridal, editorial, and behind-the-chair hairstyling. He is the founder of Hair by Juan Jose, a personal brand known for refined artistry, professionalism, and client-centered experiences. A longtime member of Cosmetologists Chicago / America’s Beauty Show since 1999 and a past recipient of a Cosmetologists Chicago President’s Scholarship, Juan Jose brings a deep understanding of the organization and its mission.

Director

Charlene Stepney is the owner of the Stepney Institute of Esthetics and Wellness, a CIDESCO accredited school that trains esthetics students and educators. She has decades of experience as an esthetics educator, school leader, and small business owner and has served on multiple industry boards and advisory groups. Charlene brings deep expertise in esthetics, curriculum design, and wellness, along with a strong network that can help grow the esthetics and spa presence at America's Beauty Show. 

Adjunct

LeAnn Drake is the owner of Fusion Natural Hair & Braid Academy and a licensed educator with deep experience in textured hair, natural hair care, and braiding. She has held leadership roles with national retailers and actively prepares students for licensure and long-term success. LeAnn is passionate about representation and ensuring that education and leadership reflect the diversity of our industry. 

Adjunct 

Ken Washburn is a licensed cosmetologist, barber, and seasoned instructor whose career includes roles as educator, school director, and consultant. He has trained students in both cosmetology and barbering and contributed to academic and industry committees. Ken offers a strong understanding of education quality, student outcomes, and the needs of both current and future professionals. 

Adjunct 

Kenny Williams is the owner of SilknClassy LLC and an experienced educator and platform artist. He has mentored barbers and cosmetologists through education programs, show stage work, and advisory roles with schools and brands. Kenny is committed to building bridges between barbers, stylists, and manufacturers and creating growth opportunities for young professionals. 

Adjunct

Kim Walker is a licensed nail technician and salon professional who also brings experience from the healthcare and disability services sectors. Her background includes program coordination, client advocacy, and administrative leadership. Kim is dedicated to elevating the nail community within Cosmetologists Chicago and championing safe, inclusive, and rewarding careers for nail professionals. 

Advisor to the President

Owner of Karen Gordon Hair Loss Solutions, Karen Gordon is a certified trichologist. She serves as the Director of Cosmetology USA for the World Trichology Society and is on the Board of Directors of Intercoiffure America/Canada. Karen holds a Master's in Applied Business from DePaul University.

Immediate Past President

Founder and owner of Salon Lorrene in Palatine, IL, has successfully led her full-service salon and day spa for over 25 years. She is a two-time winner of the Wella Hairdressers at Heart Charity Competition and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Roosevelt University.

Chief Executive Officer of America's Beauty Show

A lead executive in the professional beauty industry, Frank manages association finances, digital marketing, and overall business operations. He holds digital marketing credentials from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management and strategic business leadership education from The University of Chicago Booth School of Business.