Students who were looking for a new hairstyle at a cheap price were in luck this past Wednesday in the Student Union, where a miniature hair salon was set up from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to support the Locks of Love organization.
Students and faculty were invited to stop by to either donate hair or get a new 'do courtesy of Supercuts for only $5 a pop, with all proceeds going to Locks of Love.
"We're just cutting it, they get the money," said Adrienne Yarger, who has been a stylist for seven years.
The event attracted a total of seventy people, with fourteen donating their locks to make wigs for children under 18 who have lost their hair due to medical conditions.
Melanie Bailey, a sophomore English major, came up with the idea to hold the charity event.
"A friend donated her hair and she had so much, it was so thick, that she was able to give away two pigtails," Bailey said. "I was inspired."
Bailey's idea couldn't have been brought to life without the help of Sarah Barnes, a graduate assistant in the Office of Student Life.
"When Melanie approached me with this idea, I thought it sounded like a great opportunity for college students to give back to the community," she said.
Supercuts set up three stations where up to five people at a time could receive haircuts.
"It's an awesome cause," said Natalie Syntet, who has been cutting hair for four years. "I'm actually growing my hair out to donate."
Ten students from the Office of Student Life gave up their day, along with five stylists and three supervisors from Supercuts, to be part of the event.
According to Yarger, there are certain specifications that need to be met in order to donate hair.
"It has to be healthy, un-dyed hair and at least ten inches long," she said.
Students were just as enthusiastic about the low price as they were about the cause it was going for.
"I'm sure they loved the idea of a cheap cut, but they also were so happy to be giving to a charity when so many college kids have no money," Bailey said. "One guy gave us an extra five dollars to donate."
The majority of hair that was donated came from women. However, plenty of guys stopped by to get either a whole new look or just a trim.
"That's where I usually get my hair cut at home," said Brian Feigenbaum, a freshman business major. "I enjoyed my haircut."
Another event is in the works for next semester to support Locks of Love. This time Bailey plans on more promotion both on and off campus to encourage a greater number of donations.
"Hopefully people will spread the word and the next event will be an even greater success," Barnes said. "We're really happy and looking forward to doing this next semester."
Barnes was grateful for the time and staff donated by Supercuts, who made the event possible.
"This event was a success, thanks to all of the people who donated their time, money, and hair," she said. "Together we have made a difference in the lives of many deserving children."
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
