TSPA Fargo is proud to announce that Izzy Watry, our Director of Admissions, has been named Admissions Director of the Year by the Salon Professional Education Company.
Below is an excerpt from the award ceremony presentation delivered by Becky Bloechle, SPEC Vice President of Enrollment Management:
Oprah Winfrey once said, “Passion is energy. Feel the power that comes from focusing on what excites you.” And the person we are honoring tonight embodies that power, that passion, and that energy in every sense of the word. Because being an exceptional Admissions Director is about so much more than hitting numbers. A mediocre admissions director tells the story of our industry. A good one explains it. A superior one demonstrates it.
But a truly great admissions director inspires.
They create belief. They build confidence. They help someone walk through our doors uncertain…. and leave with a vision for their future. And that is exactly what this year’s Admissions Director of the Year recipient does every single day. When her leadership team first met her, she was a college student with drive, determination, and undeniable potential. She was hired for a front desk role, but it didn’t take long to see that she was meant for so much more. She brings a presence that is positive, upbeat, and magnetic. She leads by example, showing up polished, professional, and confident… a true reflection of the industry we represent. She is a team player in every sense of the word, grounded in the belief that the more you learn, the more you earn, and the better you live. And she doesn’t just say it… she lives it. She connects with students in a way that is real. When she tells them, ‘you can do this, they believe her… because she is living proof. She is organized. She is focused. She is driven. And just as importantly… she brings joy to the process. She is someone people want to be around. Someone who makes the experience memorable.
And while her character speaks volumes, her results are equally extraordinary. In 2025, she achieved: 57% inquiry to appointment booked, 87% first appointment show rate, 24% inquiry to enroll, and 19% inquiry to start. These are not just strong numbers. They are exceptional. She is converting leads at more than double the expected benchmarks, which is a direct reflection of her consistency, her discipline, and her commitment to excellence. But what we appreciate most is her mindset. She shows up eager to learn. She leans into every training opportunity. She brings a growth mindset into everything she does. Her energy is contagious. Her enthusiasm is undeniable. And her passion is felt by every student she serves. She works hard every single day to change lives.
And tonight, we honor not just her performance… but her impact.
It is my great honor to present the 2025 Admissions Director of the Year award to the extraordinary…Izzy Watry of TSPA Fargo
