Dr. Tholen, M.D., F.A.C.S.

As a nationally recognized plastic surgeon with over 37 years of experience, Dr. Richard Tholen brings unmatched expertise, artistry, and innovation to both cosmetic surgery and medical aesthetics laser education. He is the senior partner of Minneapolis Plastic Surgery and founder of one of the nation’s most advanced QUAD A-accredited outpatient surgical centers. He has also been mentioned in top doctors!

Board-certified in both General and Plastic Surgery and trained at the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Tholen has performed thousands of aesthetic procedures, lasers and mentored countless medical professionals. His reputation for natural, refined results and commitment to excellence is the foundation of the Medspa Institute of America—where students are fortunate to learn from a leader who has helped shape the future of medical aesthetics. He trained people in laser centers of America! A fun fact is he is passionate about watches!

Carly – Owner and Advanced Practice and Laser Instructor

Carly is the founder and CEO of Medspa Institute of America, Minnesota’s first licensed laser and medical spa education school. She launched the school in 2015 after realizing there was nothing in the industry that offered the type of advanced, medical-focused skincare education she was looking for. Determined to fill that gap, Carly took the long, challenging, and often costly road to master lasers, advanced skin treatments, and medical aesthetics—gaining hands-on experience in dermatology clinics and plastic surgery offices along the way.

Her passion lies in sharing the real-world, clinical side of skincare that often goes untaught in traditional esthetics schools. She built Medspa Institute of America to be the school she wished had existed when she was starting out—one that truly prepares students for careers in high-end medspas, plastic surgery offices, and dermatology practices.

When she’s not helping students transform their futures, Carly loves spending time with her husband and kids, laughing, dancing, and snacking on pickles.

Sara – School Manager

Sara Skeie began her journey in the beauty industry as a licensed cosmetologist with a passion for creativity and helping others feel their best. Her dedication to education and leadership quickly led her to become an instructor and eventually an Executive Director of a beauty school.

Now serving as the School Manager at Medspa Institute of America, Sara plays a key role in guiding and mentoring students as they pursue careers in medical aesthetics. She is deeply committed to fostering a positive, empowering environment where students feel confident, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Outside of her work in education, Sara enjoys traveling and exploring new places—a passion that continually fuels her creativity and reminds her of the beauty that exists around the world.

Morganne – Admissions

Morganne serves as our Admissions Counselor and Assistant Staff Manager at Medspa Institute of America. With a background in retail management and six years of leadership experience, she made the decision to pivot her career toward something with more growth and long-term impact. In July of 2020, she enrolled in our Luxury Laser program and became a certified Laser Technician and CPR/AED Instructor.

Morganne brings her passion for the aesthetics industry and her talent for mentorship into everything she does. She is especially inspired by the transformation she sees in students—from the moment they walk through our doors to the day they graduate with confidence and skill. Her goal is to guide and support each student as they grow, both personally and professionally, into successful members of the medical aesthetics field.

Teanna – RN, Clinical Nurse Educator

With over 20 years of experience in the beauty and aesthetics industry, Teanna blends clinical precision with artistic flair. Her journey began behind the chair as a licensed cosmetologist and bridal beauty expert, evolving into a respected educator at the Medspa Institute of America, where she has trained of aspiring injectors.

As a Clinical Nursing Educator at the community college level, Teanna brings a deep understanding of anatomy, safety, and hands-on teaching to every training session. Her passion lies in helping nurses and estheticians elevate their skills, build confidence, and create stunning, natural-looking results.

Whether she’s perfecting bridal glam or guiding future injectors toward excellence, Teanna is known for her expertise, real-world experience, and empowering approach.

Ready to learn from the best?

Train with Teanna and take your aesthetic career to the next level.

Cassidy – Laser Instructor and Esthetician Instructor

Cassidy is a licensed Esthetician with over 8 years of hands-on experience in the skincare and aesthetics industry. She is a 2017 graduate of the Aveda Arts and Sciences Institute in Minneapolis and wasted no time advancing her career since she didn’t feel she learned what was needed in her schooling, earning her Laser Certification from Luxury Laser Education (now known as Medspa Institute of America).

With a strong foundation in both clinical and luxury skincare, Cassidy brings a unique blend of technical expertise and real-world experience to her training. Cassidy has been trained in a wide variety of lasers, including: Gentle Max Pro, Picoway, and E2 Sublative Resurfacing, Venus Viva, Lumenis, Sciton BBL and body contouring machines such as, Venus Legacy, Body FX, Velashape, Coolsculpting and Cooltone. She’s also received advanced training from top skincare brands like SkinMedica, Obagi, Colorescience, Neocutis and more.

What truly sets Cassidy apart as an educator is her passion for skincare, her dedication to staying current in a fast-evolving field, and her approachable, down-to-earth teaching style. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your laser skills, Cassidy makes complex techniques easy to understand and ensures every student feels confident, supported, and inspired.

Amanda – Phlebotomy Instructor

Amanda has been a dedicated instructor at the MedSpa Institute of America for over three years, leading the phlebotomy program with a personalized and student-centered approach. With a background in phlebotomy and EMT/triage, she brings hands-on clinical experience from her time working in a busy Twin Cities hospital. Amanda is known for her compassionate teaching style, adapting to each student’s unique learning needs to ensure success in and out of the classroom.

Outside of the MedSpa Institute, Amanda is a proud mom of two, an avid gardener, and a multi-passionate entrepreneur. She runs her own photography business and offers virtual assistant services tailored to support small businesses.

Rachael – Advanced Practice Instructor

Rachael is a licensed AP esthetician and passionate educator with over three years of experience in the skincare industry. Discovering esthetics later in life, she quickly found it to be the most rewarding chapter of her journey—one that blends her love for helping others with her talent for skincare.

As an instructor, Rachael is known for her supportive, hands-on approach to teaching. She creates a welcoming environment where students are encouraged to grow, build confidence, and refine their skills as they find their unique voice in the beauty industry.

In addition to her role in education, Rachael owns and operates her own esthetics business. This real-world experience allows her to bring current industry insights, professionalism, and authenticity into the classroom—giving students a deeper understanding of both the technical and business sides of the field

Rachael is committed to inspiring and empowering the next generation of estheticians, whether they’re just beginning their journey or ready to take their skills to the next level. She also has her own beauty business outside of school.

Nealee – Advanced Practice Instructor

With nearly 30 years of experience in the beauty industry and as the owner of a successful Medspa, she brings a powerful combination of expertise, passion, and real-world knowledge to her role as an instructor at Medspa Institute of America. Her background in both esthetics and business ownership allows her to offer students a well-rounded education that extends far beyond the treatment room. She is dedicated to helping future professionals build confidence, master their skills, and discover the many career paths available in the industry—including entrepreneurship. Her commitment to student success and her love for teaching make her a valued mentor and leader in the classroom.

Kendall – Advanced Practice Instructor

Kendall is a seasoned esthetician with years of hands-on experience in the professional skincare industry, having built her career in Rochester, MN. Her passion for helping others feel confident in their skin quickly led her to specialize in transformative treatments such as chemical peels, customized facials, RF microneedling, and cellulite reduction. Through this work, she developed a deep knowledge of skin science and advanced esthetic techniques—expertise she now shares as an instructor at Medspa Institute of America.

Kendall is known for her approachable and engaging teaching style, creating a supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to grow into confident, capable professionals. Her greatest reward as an educator is watching students transform as they build both their skills and self-assurance throughout their journey.

Beyond the classroom, Kendall enjoys quality time with her loved ones, browsing antique shops, and unwinding at her family’s cabin in northern Wisconsin—where she draws inspiration from the quiet beauty of nature.

Dedicated, knowledgeable, and passionate about the future of esthetics, Kendall is proud to help shape the next generation of industry leaders.

Alyssa – Esthetics and Lash Instructor

Alyssa brings over five years of hands-on experience in the beauty industry to her role as an esthetics and lash instructor. In addition to teaching, she is a successful business owner, specializing in waxing, makeup artistry, and lash and brow design. Her deep industry knowledge and passion for helping others shine through in the classroom, where she is dedicated to preparing students for confident, successful careers in beauty.

Alyssa is known for her approachable teaching style and commitment to excellence. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending quality time with her three children and exploring the local food scene with her husband.

Rose – Advanced Practice Instructor

Rose is an Advanced Practice Instructor at MedSpa Institute of America with a diverse background in holistic health, skincare, and the medical field. She holds an Advanced Health Coach Certificate and has experience as a Nurse’s Aide, Administrative Medical Assistant, and licensed Nail Technician.

In addition to her expertise in esthetics, Rose is a seasoned performing artist with experience in film, stage, voice, dance, and modeling. She has performed in theatrical productions, hair shows for major brands like Nexxus and Biolage, and even played Snow White in children’s school tours. From lounge singing and weddings to commercial print work for Valleyfair, Dayton’s, and more—her passion for the arts brings energy, creativity, and confidence into the classroom.

She reminds every student that their journey to success starts with the training they receive at MedSpa Institute of America.

Borah – Advanced Practice Instructor

With over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry and 15 years as an educator, Borah brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role. She holds both a bachelor’s degree and an MBA, and is deeply committed to helping students succeed and discover their own love for the industry. A lifelong learner, Borah continuously takes classes to stay current and expand her expertise. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time in nature—hiking, kayaking, and making memories with her family.

Alex – Laser Instructor

Alex has been a valued member of the MedSpa Institute of America team since 2020, bringing both expertise and enthusiasm to her dual roles as a laser instructor and front desk coordinator. A graduate of the institute herself, she began her esthetics journey in 2019 and quickly stood out for her passion and dedication to the field.

Known for her approachable nature and commitment to student success, Alex thrives on building strong connections with her students and guiding them as they develop confidence in advanced treatments. She specializes in laser tattoo removal, a service she finds especially rewarding to teach due to its transformative impact.

Outside of the classroom, Alex is a classically trained cellist and a self-proclaimed Mario Party champion. Her creative energy and warm personality make her a favorite among students and a valued mentor in the clinic.

Savannah – Laser Instructor

Savannah is a proud graduate of the Esthetics, Advanced Practice Esthetics, and Laser Technician programs at Medspa Institute of America—and now she’s come full circle as one of our expert instructors. With hands-on experience and a deep understanding of advanced skincare and laser technologies, Savannah brings both passion and precision to the classroom.

She leads our Laser Theory and Internship programs, where her students benefit not only from her technical skills but also from her strong emphasis on professionalism and ethical practice. Savannah’s favorite part of teaching is watching her students’ confidence skyrocket as they master treatments that once felt intimidating.

Known for her sharp eye, calm leadership, and ability to explain complex treatments in real-world terms, Savannah is a trusted mentor who’s deeply invested in her students’ success—and it shows.

Jennifer – Patient coordinator

From the moment you walk in, Jennifer is here to make sure your experience is smooth, welcoming, and stress-free. With a love for organization and a passion for people, she keeps things running behind the scenes so students can focus on what matters — learning, growing, and stepping confidently into the world of aesthetics.

Whether you need help with scheduling, or just a good morning smile, Jennifer is your go-to gal. She’s all about good vibes, great service, and making everyone feel right at home. At home she enjoys hanging out with her kids, grandkids and going on walks.

Aaliyah – Administrative Assistant

As the Administrative Assistant at our medspa school, she plays a key role in maintaining a warm, organized, and supportive environment for both students and staff. From managing daily operations to offering assistance wherever needed, she takes pride in contributing to a team dedicated to growth and success. Outside of work, she enjoys practicing Pilates, diving into a good book, spending quality time with loved ones, and planning her next travel adventure. With a passion for staying active, continuous learning, and spreading positivity, she brings vibrant energy to everything she does.

KayLynn-Front desk, Certified Aesthetic Laser Technician & Spray Tan & Teeth Whitening Specialist

Based in St. Paul, KayLynn is a certified aesthetic laser technician with a refined expertise in custom spray tanning and teeth whitening. Since 2021, she has been a vital part of our beauty school, offering exceptional client care and seamless operational support.

Outside the school, KayLynn is the founder of Brilliant Beauty MN, a high-end mobile beauty brand specializing in premium sunless tanning and cosmetic teeth whitening services. Her passion lies in enhancing natural beauty and building confidence with unparalleled service.
Outside of her work in education, Sara enjoys traveling and exploring new places—a passion that continually fuels her creativity and reminds her of the beauty that exists around the world.