About M.I.B.A.
The Mississippi Independent Beauticians’ Association
Pioneers That Still Live
Behind every movement lies a story of vision, courage, and legacy—and M.I.B.A. is no exception.
In the spring of 1941, amid the vibrant energy of the Delta Cotton Makers Jubilee in Greenville, Mississippi, a powerful exchange sparked a movement that would shape the future of beauty professionals across the state.
Mr. Levye Chapple, recognizing the powerful presence of a float from a local beauty school, extended his thanks to its founder, Miss Clemmie Tardd. In that conversation, Miss Tardd expressed a dream: what if Mississippi beauticians were organized—stronger together, united in purpose and professionalism?
From that seed of conversation, the Mississippi Independent Beauticians' Association was born.
How M.I.B.A. Was Born
Miss Clemmie Tardd, with support from her sister Fannie Tardd, Udivie Dykes, Willie B. Bryant, and their students, joined forces with Mr. Levye Chapple, who committed his time and promotional expertise. Together, they worked tirelessly—writing letters, buying stamps, making personal visits—to gather beauticians from across the state.
By July 16–17, 1941, eighty passionate beauticians representing forty-two localities gathered in Greenville and officially founded M.I.B.A. With Mrs. L. B. Thornton of Jackson as its first president, the association began its journey rooted in community, education, and advocacy.
Just months later, M.I.B.A. had grown to nearly 500 members, a clear signal that the movement had struck a chord.
Pushing Through Resistance. Leading With Purpose.
One of M.I.B.A.’s boldest goals was the establishment of a State Board of Cosmetology—a controversial idea at the time. Many feared regulation would mean exclusion. But M.I.B.A. led with patience, education, and unity, eventually helping bring the board into reality. Today, it stands as a symbol of progress and professionalism in Mississippi's beauty industry.
Legacy Leaders. Lifelong Service.
While many helped birth the vision, only a few have never missed a single State Association meeting since its inception. We proudly honor:
Mr. and Mrs. E. F. Young, Jr.
Mrs. B. L. Young
Mrs. Andre V. Cooper
Mr. Levye Chapple
Mrs. P. W. Redmond (in spirit, though she missed 1946 due to her mother’s passing)
Others who left an indelible mark include:
Mrs. A. L. Richardson, Mrs. Parthenia Bell, Miss Elsie Daniels, Mrs. Pearl Davis, Mrs. C. T. Walker, Mr. Richard H. Young, Mrs. A. G. Cooper, and so many more.
Their tireless service laid the foundation for generations of beauty professionals.
The Legacy of Summer School
In 1943, Mrs. L. B. Thornton introduced the concept of a Beauticians’ Summer School, first held in Meridian. What began as a hopeful experiment has now become an enduring tradition—equipping stylists and beauty experts across Mississippi with the education and excellence they deserve.
Honoring Our Stalwarts
No history of M.I.B.A. is complete without naming those whose contributions—often behind the scenes—carried this movement:
Mrs. L. B. Forte
Mrs. Gladys A. McGa
Mrs. Amanda Turner
Mrs. Annie L. Richardson
Mrs. Clemmie Brown
Dean Watts
Andrews Lowe
Stegall
And many more unnamed, but never forgotten.
What began as M.I.B.A. in 1941 has now grown into M.I.B.B.A.—the Mississippi Independent Beauty & Barbering Association—expanding our legacy to include barbers and continuing to thrive, unify, and build a stronger future for all beauty and grooming professionals.