For more than 20 years, Nicki Fuglem dreamed of becoming a cosmetologist. Substance use disorder and the hardships that followed made that goal feel distant, but she never let it go. Today, with more than two and a half years of sobriety, Nicki has completed the 1,500-hour Adult Education Cosmetology program at the Wayne County Schools Career Center Adult Education.
Nicki was recently honored with the Phoenix Award at the 2026 Annual Dinner for the Mental Health & Recovery Board of Wayne & Holmes Counties. WCSCC Adult Education staff nominated her in recognition of her resilience, dedication and commitment to helping others. Adult Education Supervisor Curtis Good and Administrative Assistant Lucy Ewing attended the dinner to celebrate her achievement.
Completing the program took determination. While attending classes, Nicki worked full-time at Homeward Bound Shelter, supporting people experiencing homelessness and hardship. She also chose to complete all 300 internship hours, even though she did not need every hour to graduate. It was a commitment she had made to herself.
In the cosmetology lab, Nicki became a dependable classmate who was quick to help when needed. Her instructor called her “nothing short of inspirational,” recalling how Nicki’s technical skills and confidence grew throughout the program. Her work ethic and the encouragement she offered her classmates earned her recognition as WCSCC’s Adult Education Student of the Month in July 2026.
For Nicki, achieving her education goal is also a way to serve others. “Every client who sits in my chair is an opportunity to help someone feel seen, valued, and confident,” she said. Drawing on her own experience, she hopes to offer understanding and encouragement to people who need it.
The Phoenix Award recognizes resilience and rising from adversity. Nicki’s journey reflects both: she held onto a long-standing goal, did the work to complete her education and is using what she has learned to help others feel valued. Congratulations, Nicki!