By Brandie McNamara
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – After realizing the need for better vocational training in the field of Cosmetology, Ralph Payne, a noted barber and leading salon owner, founded Queen City Hair College on March 5, 1984.
On May 10, 1985, he married Laura McNamara (who had been employed at Queen City Hair College since its opening) and she was named Chief Administrator. In May 1990, the school changed its name to Queen City College.
Over the past 30 years Ralph and Laura Payne have expanded Queen City College (QCC) from its small original location on Franklin Street to 1594 Ft. Campbell Blvd where they currently occupy over 13,000 square feet; adding numerous programs over the years including Barber, Esthetics, and Nail Technician. In addition to offering enrollment for students, QCC also offers salon services to the public at discounted prices.
Hundreds and hundreds of students have passed through the doors of QCC in the last 30 years. The Payne’s have not only provided quality education, they have personally mentored student after student. The Christian beliefs of both Ralph and Laura have enabled them to reach beyond the traditional teacher/student “role” and become a true inspiration to many. There isn’t a day that goes by that a former student doesn’t contact the Payne’s to thank them for their encouragement, support, concern, and advice.
QCC has always been a family business. From brothers and sisters, sons and daughters, even grandchildren; several family members have graduated from and/or worked at QCC over the years. They have always considered all of their staff an extension of their family. As a family, QCC actively participates in giving back to the community. From donating services to various charities (including the Clarksville Police Department’s “Back to School” drive) and sponsoring bake sales (including several local Church groups) the Payne’s have made QCC an important part of Clarksville.
Ralph is an active Instructor at QCC. His passion has led him to write laws for the State of Tennessee Barber Board. In 2012, Governor Bill Haslam appointed Mr. Payne to serve as a Barber Board member. Although his term has ended, his commitment to this industry has not wavered. He recently presented a petition to the Barber Board, objecting to proposed law changes. He believes the integrity of the industry would suffer greatly if the proposal is passed.
In addition to serving as the Chief Administrator of QCC, Laura is an active Instructor. She is also a team member and actively participates with the Council on Occupation Education (COE); a nationally recognized accrediting agency. Throughout the years Laura has both led and assisted in reviews of numerous schools across the country. These reviews are a requirement of a school to become, and then retain their accreditation status with COE.
Ralph and Laura Payne are very proud of their accomplishments over the last 30 years. Their greatest pride is seeing the success of their students; professionally, spiritualty, and personally. The Payne’s future goals consist of continuing to provide quality education in Clarksville. A possible expansion of QCC may be in the near future.
On behalf of QCC, Ralph and Laura would like to thank all of their students both past and present for the opportunity to share their love, passion, and dedication to the beauty industry! Looking forward to ANOTHER 30 years!