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.

Halla – Admissions

After 10 years in the beauty industry I understand how exciting, scary, uncomfortable, and uncertain taking that first step in a new career can feel.

As an Admissions Coordinator, I have the opportunity to be there for the girlies who are standing at that starting line- answering questions, alleviating concerns, providing guidance, and helping future beauty professionals take those first steps toward their careers.

My true passion is people; and their success. I want every person I work with to feel supported, heard, and confident in their decision. I’m grateful to be that person in your corner to lean on, and cheer you on through this process.

Being able to use the experience I’ve gained over the last 10 years to help another girly pop begin her own journey in this industry is invaluable to me, it also keeps me inspired.

And that’s what makes me love what I do.

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.

Nealee – Advanced Practice Instructor

With nearly 30 years of experience in the beauty industry and as the owner of a successful Medspa and salon with renters in Lakeville, Nealee brings a unique blend of expertise, passion, and real-world insight to her role as an instructor at Medspa Institute of America. Her extensive background in esthetics and business ownership enables her to provide students with a comprehensive education that goes beyond technical skills. Nealee is committed to helping future professionals build confidence, master their craft, and explore diverse career opportunities—including entrepreneurship. Her dedication to student success and passion for teaching make her a respected mentor and leader in the classroom.

Jodi – Advanced Practice Instructor

After 18 years as a medical assistant, I decided to chase my passion for aesthetics. In 2017 I graduated and began my new career as an aesthetician!

After working at several high-end salons, I decided to chase another passion: teaching. I’m so passionate about the industry and want to share my experiences with my students and enthusiasm for this growing field.

Alyssa – Esthetics and Lash Instructor

Alyssa brings hands-on experience in the beauty industry to her role as an esthetics and lash instructor. She owns a successful esthetics business 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 prepares students for confident, successful careers.

Known for her approachable teaching style and commitment to excellence, Alyssa balances her career with quality time spent with her three children and exploring the local food scene with her husband.

Sammi – Advanced Practice Esthetics and Laser Instructor

Sammi brings hands on experience from Medical Aesthetics background to her role here at Medspa Institute. She has a deep understanding of the industry which allows her to share that knowledge with her students in depth. She specializes in medical microneedling, radiofrequency microneedling, medical grade chemical peels and lasers. She is known for her structured and in-depth teaching style which helps prepare her students for success in the field.

In her free time she enjoys spending quality time with her husband. Going for hikes, traveling, and going to different classes with her friends.

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.

Riley – Laser Instructor

Irina – Advanced Practice Esthetics Instructor

Irina is a licensed Advanced Practice Esthetician, instructor, and skincare business owner with a passion for aesthetics and education. She also holds additional laser certification from the Medspa Institute of America.

With hands-on industry and business experience, Irina enjoys sharing her knowledge and helping students develop their skills and confidence. She is passionate about staying current with new treatments and techniques and preparing students for successful careers in aesthetics.

Outside the classroom, Irina enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, working out, and exploring the outdoors.

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.

KayLynn-Front desk

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.

Jamie-Advanced Practice Aesthetician, Laser Technician & Front Desk Coordinator

Jamie is a proud alumni of Medspa Institute of America and now serves as our Front Desk Coordinator. With her background as an Advanced Practice Aesthetician and Laser Technician, she brings both expertise and a warm, welcoming presence to every client experience.

Evelynn-Front Desk

As Front Desk Coordinator, Evelynn is dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming experience for every client. With a passion for customer service and a love for the world of beauty, she enjoys helping people feel their best from the moment they walk through the door. Currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in English, she is excited to continue growing both personally and professionally while supporting clients and the team with a friendly attitude and exceptional care.