My name is Kennedy Cummings, I am 22 years old, and I have a passion for the science of the skin. I was unfairly terminated from my esthetics program at Tricoci University of Beauty Culture in Norwood Park, IL on November 15th, 2021—two days before my graduation date. On November 11th, 2021, my esthetics educator, Kelly Lyle wrongfully accused me of shoving her and calling her a profane term in an area with NO cameras, and NO form of concrete evidence proving that I assaulted her in any way. A completely accidental run-in that took place in a narrow hallway led Ms. Lyle to tell Tricoci University’s management team a falsified and dishonest story about my actions. This educator ranges anywhere from 300-400 pounds, standing at 5’5”, while I am a mere 125 pounds at 5’1”. Even if inflicting violent behavior toward this particular educator were my intent, I would have not been able to make any real dangerous impact due to the differences in our sizes and strength. Still, Ms. Lyle made claims that she felt unsafe at her place of employment, which has led to me being unable to complete my course at this campus.

Since the day that I was terminated from my program, I have fought aimlessly to make sure that I could be heard by the right individuals, in order to get back into my program to complete my 20 remaining hours. Tricoci University has made this virtually impossible for me. My institutional grants were taken away from me. Before I began my schooling, my appointed financial aid advisor made sure to accommodate my low-income situation. These accommodations have been forfeited. I now am expected to pay over 3-thousand dollars out of pocket if I wish to transfer my 733 credits to a further Tricoci University campus. Let me say again, I have 20 remaining hours in my esthetics course. I have two days remaining before I reach 750 hours, which would make me a Certified Esthetician in the state of Illinois.

I am the daughter of a disabled mother, living in the outskirts of Chicago, and my opportunity at Tricoci University was my personal commitment and effort to escape the poverty line and strive for better. The beauty industry is an extremely lucrative market, but more than that, it is my dream. I deserve this opportunity just as much as the next student, and just as much as this educator who continues to walk freely in her workplace after lying about my actions and hindering me of the chance to make a stable living.

I am writing this statement because I have been intimidated by Tricoci University’s management team to be silent. Throughout my educational journey, I was told to be silent by multiple educators—during class lessons, and even in instances where I was bullied by fellow classmates and desperately needed support and guidance. This time, I am seeking the support of anyone who sees this. I’d appreciate if this could be shared out, to protect any future students, and relate to any individuals who have suffered this level of emotional damage by their institution.

Furthermore, I am hoping that I can gain the attention of the local media, to notify Tricoci University that you do not terminate innocent students without properly investigating the incident at hand. I am highly disappointed in these circumstances, but I am not defeated. Thank you.