- December 24, 2025
Flagler Technical College Teacher of the Year Adrienne Harvey teaches cosmetology as an elective to high school juniors and seniors at Flagler Palm Coast and also teaches the career cosmetology course of 1,200 hours for adult students to obtain their Florida cosmetology license.
Harvey has been teaching for 18 years in Flagler County. She also taught for various companies in the industry for over 10 years.
Why did you decide to become a teacher?
I believe teaching is a calling. I often tell students your first teacher is your parents. Well, I’m the daughter of an educator and a minister, so combined the two, you have a passionate hairstylist who loves to enlighten the students about her chosen industry.
How does the nomination make you feel?
This nomination brings a special feeling of gratitude and humility. I am grateful for the opportunity to elevate the presence of my school, Flagler Technical College. I am humbled by the graciousness of my peers to think of me in such high regard to nominate me.
What is your favorite thing about being a teacher?
My favorite thing about being a teacher, hands down, is the interaction with the students. They provide insight to a different generation mindset. I love it when they say, “Ms. Harvey, no one does that anymore,” and I reply, “Show me what replaced it.” It becomes a teaching moment for both parties. It’s really fun and informative when we discuss current events.
What is one thing you are taking away from this experience?
The one thing I’m taking away from this experience is a sense of pride and affirmation of continuous hard work in my industry which transcends to the classroom.
Being a teacher can be challenging at times. What keeps you motivated?
The challenges in life and the classroom are very similar. First you need to acknowledge there is a challenge, then begin putting a plan together to address it head on. Sometimes in the classroom it might be allowing a student to just take a moment to express a passionate idea. Other times it might just be you showing a student that you care, can lead to the challenge resolution.
What is a memorable experience that influenced the way you approach educating students?
A memorable experience came when I started giving free haircuts to the homeless. Many times their stories included an educator who didn’t notice their struggles in their environments. I make it a point on the first day to tell every class if you ever need someone to talk to, Ms. Harvey is here and I will always have time for you. The rise of suicide and drug use among the youth in our county dictates these intimate conversations with students. Over the years these conversations lend themselves to some very deep epiphanies.
If there was one piece of wisdom you could share with students, what would it be?
If you’d ask my students, they would probably say, “Believe in yourself.” I’m constantly repeating this statement to them. I would say, “Don’t chase the money, chase the skill and the money will come.”
Aside from your job, what are some other things you enjoy in your daily life?
I enjoy spending time with my family. I love my family to life! We are a family of educators, ministers, entrepreneurs, and most importantly, humor. You will always have a great time in our presence.
I relish being an active member of St. Paul Baptist Church in Espanola, Florida, where the pastor is Rev. Abram Jones. It’s a small tightknit community church where I serve as secretary to the pastor. I also delight in serving on the Florida Board of Cosmetology. This position was appointed by the governor in 2013. I have served as member, then chair, and I currently serve as vice chair. I also love to travel domestic as well as internationally. My friends are always asking “Where in the world is Adrienne Harvey?”
