Victoria (Gaskins) Perry ’02 works to inspire “the evolution of beauty” for salon owners across the country. Perry grew up in a family that values academics and faith. She was one of two students who came from her elementary school, All Saints, the year she enrolled—but that did not stop her from making friends and participating in extra-curricular activities. While at SUA, Perry was a St. Francis de Sales High School cheerleader, performed in the musical, and earned a spot on the first Dance Team. She loved performing and learned leadership and teambuilding skills through her experiences.

After graduation, Perry attended Bowling Green State University, majoring in General Business. She liked the idea of running a business, but she wasn’t sure that the timing of attending college worked for her. She had a close female mentor who was a successful salon owner and showed Perry an industry that not only provided a thriving career path, but also enabled her to help people in a personal way. It was a difficult decision, but she left school to pursue the beauty industry to study esthetics. During the early stages of her career, Perry used the leadership and communication skills she acquired as an Arrow to secure opportunities for advancement in her company.

Today, Perry is the President and a Licensed Esthetician at Soto Signature Salon & Spa, as well as a Spa Specialist Consultant at Summit Salon Business Center. She travels the country to train individuals on the back end of the business and to implement business systems. She uses her experience with leadership, communication, marketing, and accounting to uplift her clients and their businesses.

“When I reflect on what guided my success, I remember all of the strong, educated, confident women who shared their best practices with me, and it’s my obligation to continue to share that information with other women in my community,” Perry said.