100 YEARS IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY

History in the making, we are capitol.Through meaningful educational experiences, Capitol educates, empowers, and connects our students to their professional goals.

1923

Capitol Beauty School was founded by Mrs. Kamreth, on Capitol Avenue in downtown Omaha, Nebraska — with the goal of providing quality cosmetology education in Omaha.

1957

Mrs. Vi Stehno and Ms. Audrey Hunt continued Kamreth's legacy after purchasing the school in providing outstanding improvements.

The school grew more successful, moving to a new location with updated facilities and equipment.

1960's

As momentum grew for the school, Stehno and Hunt began a nationwide search for the next individual to build on Capitol’s legacy.

Stehno and Hunt’s nationwide search led them back to Nebraska where they met Lyal McCaig.

In Loving Memory of Martin Lyal McCaig & Judy Mccaig

1940-2007 | 1943-2023

Born and raised in the Nebraska Sandhills, Lyal's fascination for hair began at the age of 10. His Aunt Blanche owned a small beauty salon in the tiny town of Paxton, NE.

"I would watch her work. She would let me take the hair trimmings in the back and play with them. I would color them! It was such a kick!" - 2007, Legends of Hair article, Omaha Publications

1969

Capitol Beauty School landed in the hands of Lyal McCaig and his wife Judy, embarking upon a new era for the school.

Transforming into a legend, Lyal's expertise and art earned him a multitude of honors and awards over the years.

"My professional path has been more rewarding than I could have ever imagined! I have had the opportunity to influence state laws, accreditation regulations and most of all, to be able to jumpstart the career of thousands of professionals. The satisfaction that comes with that cannot compare with anything." 2007, Legends of Hair article, Omaha Publications

our former owner and leading esthetics instructor - Judy - was a true pioneer in the beauty industry, leaving an indelible mark on Capitol's legacy in esthetics training since the 1970s.

Judy's unwavering passion for addressing clients' skin concerns played a pivotal role in shaping and establishing esthetics licensure in Nebraska. Her dedication and expertise have had a lasting impact on the industry's history in our region.

2018

Fast forward 50 years, Capitol Beauty School was passed onto Matt & Nancy Meduna.

Matt and Nancy Meduna also own Penrose Academy in Scottsdale, AZ., bringing synergies to Capitol Beauty School in regards to educational programs and operations.

With the Meduna’s, Capitol Beauty School gained a new building for the freshmen classes of Cosmetology.

2021

Working together to transform the legacy, Kelly Meduna, Matt Meduna’s sister in law, joined the capitol team. The Meduna's salon ownership and entrepreneurial experience continue to drive the school to new heights of quality and education.

2022

Capitol Beauty School continues to serve the legacy originally established in 1923, as it approaches its 100th year anniversary.