Beauty school Regency Beauty Institute announced the immediate closure of all its campuses Wednesday, sending students scrambling.
Regency had 79 schools across the country, including five in North Texas — Plano, Dallas, Mesquite, Arlington and Lewisville.
Students were given two hours Thursday to come collect their belongings. They will have one more chance between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Friday before the buildings are permanently closed.
"A lot of people are really angry, a lot of people are upset. I know for a fact that I was devastated," said student Katt Burk. "I just started in August and we just paid for October. And now, it's gone."
Students like 20-year-old Imogen Mosley are now trying to figure out how to get their money back — and get back on track.
Mosley said she took out $19,000 in student loans to attend Regency's program and Thursday was supposed to be her fourth day.
"They sent me a text message. They didn't even send me an e-mail," Mosley said.
Regency officials did not respond to requests for comment Thursday.
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"This is incredibly difficult news for everyone affected: especially our students, teachers, and staff," Regency officials stated on their website. "We are truly sorry for the abrupt nature of this information."
Regency officials blamed the closures on a lack of funds due to a shortage of cosmetology students and political circumstances for for-profit schools. The company has been in business for 50 years.
Regency posted a page on their website with information and instructions for current students.
Online: Regency Beauty Institute
Several beauty colleges in North Texas, including the Aveda Institute and Toni & Guy, have said they will try to work with students to continue their education.
