When Devyn (Howe) Litten graduated from Alliance High School in 2015, she already knew she wanted to pursue a career in cosmetology. Today, she is living that dream as the owner of Elevate Salon & Spa in Alliance. She opened her salon in 2025 and has since built it into a successful business that employs several fellow AHS cosmetology graduates.
Litten credits the AHS cosmetology program with giving her the confidence and foundational knowledge to begin her career immediately after graduation. Beyond learning technical skills, the program connected her with other individuals who shared the same passion and drive for the beauty industry.
"Alliance cosmetology gave me the foundation I needed to confidently begin my career after graduation," Litten said. "It not only taught me technical skills in cosmetology, but also prepared me for the real-world responsibilities of working in the beauty industry."
She takes pride in offering a place where other Alliance cosmetology graduates can continue to hone their skills and work in the industry she loves. They work to provide a salon experience where women feel beautiful and empowered.
“Their trust, support, and dedication inspire me every day to continue growing, not only within the beauty industry but also as a business owner and member of the Alliance community,” Litten said.
She hopes other Alliance students with dreams of starting their own business will strive to never stop learning and continue working hard for their goals.
“Success doesn't happen overnight, and there will be challenges along the way, but every experience is an opportunity to learn and grow,” Litten explained. “I hope current students learn from my experience that with dedication, perseverance, and confidence in yourself, anything is possible.”
In addition to owning her salon, Litten has served as an assistant volleyball coach, giving her another opportunity to mentor young people and help them develop confidence, teamwork, and perseverance.
Today, Litten, along with her husband Dustin, is proud to be an Aviator parent. Her son Cooper is heading to first grade. As he moves through the district, she hopes he experiences the same sense of belonging and encouragement that inspired her as a student.
“It's rewarding to see him walk the same halls, learn from dedicated educators, and become part of a community that has meant so much to my family,” Litten said. “As a parent, I hope he develops the same sense of belonging, confidence, and support that I experienced as a student.”
Litten continues to give back to her alma mater and the community and plans to do so as much as she can.
"I am proud to be an Aviator," Litten said. "I hope Alliance remains a place where students feel supported, inspired, and empowered to build successful futures."