Mission Statement

To attract top quality individuals and provide them with quality education, help them graduate, pass their State Board exam, and become gainfully employed in the fields of Cosmetology and Esthetics.

Our Story: A Legacy of Beauty and Innovation Since 1930

Tennessee School of Beauty was founded in 1930 by Mrs. Jean Brown in Knoxville, Tennessee. Her vision planted the roots of what would become a five-generation legacy of excellence in cosmetology education.

Soon after, her son, C.B. Brown, joined the family business with a mission to elevate the profession. A true pioneer, C.B. founded the Tennessee Association of Beauty Schools and served multiple terms as its president. He also led the National Association of Cosmetology Schools and held a seat as Commissioner on the National Accreditation Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. His leadership helped raise both educational and professional standards in the beauty industry.

In 1958, TSB expanded with a second location in Oak Ridge, followed by a third in Alcoa in 1970. That same year, the third generation, Gordon Brown, became Director. Gordon brought his own passion to the business, serving on the Board of Directors for the Teachers Educational Council and as Vice President of the National Association of Accredited Cosmetology Schools.

In 1987, after graduating with honors from the University of Tennessee, Adam Brown turned down law school to join the family business—becoming the fourth generation of Browns to lead TSB. Adam’s innovative ideas and commitment to staying ahead of industry trends brought Esthetics, Make-up, and Lash programs to the school, helping TSB stand out in the growing spa and wedding industries. His national involvement with the American Association of Cosmetology Schools has kept TSB connected to industry changes and nationwide opportunities for graduates.

In 1998, all three locations merged into one state-of-the-art campus on Western Avenue, where Tennessee School of Beauty still operates today. With everything under one roof—educators, directors, guest artists, and a thriving salon floor—students receive a complete and immersive experience.

Over the years, TSB has continued to lead the way:

  • In 2012, we became a Redken Premier School, giving students access to Redken’s global salon network and advanced education at the Redken Exchange in NYC.
  • We became the first standalone U.S. satellite location for Make-up Designory (MUD), allowing students to transfer credits to MUD academies in NYC and LA.
  • We were the first cosmetology school in the nation to adopt Online Testing for theory exams, giving students a leg up in State Board preparation.
  • In 2019, Stephen Brown became the fifth generation to step into the business. With a strong grasp on modern technology and a pulse on the mindset of today’s students, Stephen is helping guide TSB into its next era of innovation.

Today, Tennessee School of Beauty is proud to offer:

  • A cutting-edge AI Virtual Assistant for student and client support
  • A dedicated Continuing Education Center to keep graduates ahead of the trends
  • A brand new, expanded Cosmetology classroom space coming in 2025
  • The first MUD Studio in the United States

Fun fact: Nearly every beauty school in the area has at least one TSB graduate teaching their students!