On Thursday, November 21, 2024, Louisville’s brightest business leaders gathered at the Galt House Hotel’s Archibald Cochran Room for a night of celebration at the 2024 Most Admired CEOs and Business Impact Awards, hosted by Louisville Business First. Among the honorees was Di Tran, CEO of Louisville Beauty Academy, whose journey and heartfelt gratitude speech captured the essence of the American Dream.
A Moment of Honor and Reflection
Di Tran, joined by his wife Vy Truong, his esteemed mentors including Ray Brundige, Clark Cox, Rick Dye, and his school director Crystal Beeler, expressed deep appreciation for the recognition. Sharing the spotlight with some of Louisville’s most influential leaders, Di Tran humbly thanked Louisville Business First for elevating businesses across the city, including his own series of small businesses that have made a significant economic impact.
Di Tran’s Speech: “Vietnamese Born, American Made”
In his acceptance speech, Di Tran reflected on his inspiring journey:
*”I am Vietnamese Born, American Made. It is all God, and the United States of America is the number one country on Earth. Louisville City and Kentucky State are the most beautiful places for me. I came here in 1995 with zero English, sponsored by Catholic Charities. My ESL teacher taught me the language—can you understand me now? Thanks to them, I stand before you today.
Being honored alongside the President of the University of Louisville is surreal because UofL made me a computer engineer with a bachelor’s and master’s degree. Sullivan University gave me PhD-level education. Each of you, one way or another, has had a hand in shaping me into who I am today. That’s why I call the United States number one—because of the love and opportunities it gives to people like me.”*
A Legacy of Impact
Di Tran didn’t stop there. He turned the spotlight to his business, Louisville Beauty Academy, which he credits as a significant force for workforce development in the city:
“With our school director, Crystal Beeler—whom I call the Most Admired School Director—we have lifted over 1,000 lives, transforming them into licensed beauty professionals. Many of these graduates now own salons worth more than half a million dollars, contributing between $20 million to $50 million in annual economic impact. And we are just getting started.”
A Grateful Heart
Di Tran closed his speech by thanking his mentors, his wife, and Louisville Business First for the honor of being among such great leaders. He emphasized his gratitude to the USA and God, the foundations of his success.
The event was not just a celebration of achievements but a testament to the resilience, determination, and community spirit that make Louisville and the United States a beacon of opportunity and progress.
Congratulations to All Honorees
Di Tran shares this prestigious recognition with an incredible group of leaders, including Melisa Adkins (UofL Health), Summer Auerbach (Rainbow Blossom Inc.), and many others who continue to inspire and elevate Louisville’s business community.
Here’s to another year of innovation, leadership, and impact in Louisville!
Louisville Beauty Academy continues its mission of transforming lives through beauty education. To learn more or enroll, visit www.LouisvilleBeautyAcademy.net or text 502-625-5531.
REFERENCES
https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/c/get-to-know-our-2024-most-admired-ceos.html
https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/c/get-to-know-our-2024-most-admired-ceos/30283/di-tran.html
https://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/event/169496/2024/most-admired-ceosbusiness-impact-awards