Our mission

The Union National Institute of Salon Sciences exists to develop skilled, ethical, and confident beauty professionals through rigorous education grounded in science, standards, and service. We are committed to preparing students not only for licensure, but for lasting careers built on expertise, integrity, and a genuine dedication to client wellbeing.

Our Vision

We envision a beauty industry elevated by professionals who understand the science behind the art and the financials that drive a sustainable business. Practitioners who approach their work with precision, compassion, and continuous curiosity. UNISS graduates carry forward a standard of excellence that transforms the clients they serve, the industry they work in, and the communities they are a part of.

Our Values

• Mediocrity is our only competition.
• Asking for help builds trust.
• We rise by lifting others.
• Do the right thing when no one is watching.
• Stay curious.
• Own your outcomes.

Each class creates their own code of honor during their first week.

Miranda Nichols

An advanced esthetician that brings 18 years of esthetic experience and 10 years of mentoring to UNISS. As Co-Founder, CEO, and lead esthetics instructor, she delivers science-based, career-focused education. Passionate about excellence and continuing education, along with being a business owner herself, Miranda is dedicated to preparing students for real-world success in both the treatment room and business.

Katie Conley ​

Katie has over 20 years of experience behind the chair. As Co-Founder and Director of Education at UNISS, she delivers structured, science-based training focused on real-world success. She is committed to developing confident, career-ready professionals.

Julie Post

As a co-founder of UNISS, Julie brings both a strong business background and a lifelong connection to the Minot community. Born and raised in Minot, she grew up visiting the former cosmetology schools- which sparked an early appreciation for the creativity, confidence, and connection that beauty services can provide. Passion plus the perfect timing in life, led to the vision of UNISS and Julie ultimately helped bring that vision to life.

Crystal Lomax ​

Brings 22 years of licensed cosmetology experience, including 15 years as an instructor, to UNISS. With a background in both salons and education, she delivers modern, career-focused training. Passionate about student growth, Crystal is committed to mentoring future cosmetologists and preparing them for long-term success in the beauty industry.

Pamela Albright​

Brings 35 years of cosmetology experience to UNISS. Since 1991, she has worked in both salons and education, delivering hands-on, career-focused training. A Minot native inspired by her barber grandfather, Pamela is dedicated to preparing future cosmetologists for long-term success in the beauty industry.​

Tiffany Thorson

With over 20 years in cosmetology, along with experience in mental health, addiction services, and agricultural business, I’ve built a career defined by adaptability, communication, and leadership. Recently returning to earn my instructor’s license, I’m eager to bring that real-world perspective to students at UNISS. My greatest lesson for the classroom is this: success is rarely a straight line — true growth happens when you push past your comfort zone and commit to lifelong learning.

Kayla Olander

Kayla is a graduate of Minot State University with a degree in Marketing and Management. With over 12 years of leadership experience and 3 years in recruiting, she is passionate about helping others succeed and reach their full potential. As the Student Advisor,  she is dedicated to guiding students as they pursue their goals in the beauty industry, supporting their personal and professional growth every step of the way.

Megan Combs

A Minot Native and the organizational backbone of UNISS. With an accounting degree and a natural gift for making complicated things feel manageable, she keeps students, finances, and just about everything else running smoothly. Whether she’s walking a student through a payment plan, juggling compliance, or somehow responding to your email before you finish sending it, she brings reliability, warmth, and a little fun to everything she touches. If the lights are on and the doors are open, there’s a good chance she had something to do with it.