ASUN Student Wins National SkillsUSA Esthetics Championship

Newport, (Ark.) — Arkansas State University-Newport cosmetology student Riley Staten has earned national recognition after winning first place in the Esthetics competition at the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference, held June 22-26 in Atlanta.

The annual competition brings together the nation's top career and technical education students to demonstrate their skills in a variety of disciplines. Staten competed against state champions from across the country, showcasing her expertise in esthetics through a series of technical and creative challenges designed to evaluate industry knowledge, professionalism and hands-on skills.

Staten's winning entry featured model Grace Madden, whose collaboration helped bring Staten's creative vision to life during the national competition.

Riley Staten (left) poses with her model, Grace Madden, at the National SkillsUSA Conference.

 

The achievement marks a significant milestone for both Staten and ASU-Newport's Cosmetology program, highlighting the quality of instruction and student preparation provided through the college's career and technical education programs.

"We are incredibly proud of Riley and this outstanding accomplishment," said Dr. Typhanie Myers, provost and vice chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs at ASU-Newport. "Winning a national championship requires talent, dedication, discipline and countless hours of preparation. Riley's success reflects her commitment to excellence and serves as a wonderful example of what our students can achieve when they combine passion with hard work. We are equally proud of the faculty and staff who helped support her journey."

SkillsUSA is a national organization serving students preparing for careers in trade, technical and skilled service occupations. The National Leadership & Skills Conference is the organization's premier event, attracting thousands of students, instructors and industry professionals from across the United States each year.

ASU-Newport's Cosmetology program prepares students for careers in cosmetology, esthetics and related fields through hands-on training, industry-focused instruction and real-world learning experiences.

For more information about ASU-Newport's Cosmetology program, visit asun.edu.

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