About C. Alan Bennett & The C. Alan Experience
The C. Alan Experience is the vision of Chet A. Bennett—professionally known as C. Alan Bennett—an award-winning entrepreneur, educator, author, licensed cosmetology instructor, motivational speaker, and business leader with more than 33 years of experience. Rooted in Washington, D.C. and deeply connected to Howard University, we exist to inspire, educate, and create opportunities that change lives.
1996 – Present
Founder & Visionary Leader
C. Alan Bennett is the Founder and CEO of Bennett Career Institute, established in 1996. He transformed a small beauty school into one of the Washington Metropolitan Area’s most respected nationally accredited career institutions, educating thousands of graduates and serving as an official DC Board of Barber and Cosmetology testing site.
Over 30 Years of Impact
Educator, Author & Community Builder
With a Master’s in Education Administration and Supervision from Howard University and a B.A. in Religion from Morehouse College, Bennett has dedicated his life to leadership, education, and service—creating pathways to education, employment, and ownership for thousands of students and professionals.
Honorary Doctorate Recipient
Honors & Recognition
Bennett was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Professional Cosmetology by the National Beauty Culturists’ League in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to cosmetology education, entrepreneurship, leadership, and community service.
Achievements & Impact
Building businesses that change lives
The C. Alan Experience
More than beauty services—a movement dedicated to education, excellence, entrepreneurship, wellness, and community transformation.
Bennett Babies & The C. Alan Foundation
A licensed and accredited early childhood education center and a nonprofit foundation dedicated to scholarships, workforce development, youth empowerment, health initiatives, and educational access.
C. Alan Systems & Kidney Kafe
Business development, consulting, branding, and operations solutions through C. Alan Systems, plus wellness-focused cuisine, catering, cooking classes, and The Kidney Kafe Cooking Show with Chef Benne’.
The C. Alan Salon Network
A family of premium salons and grooming spaces—including The C. Alan Hair Salon and Barber Salon at Howard University, C. Alan Signature Salon, C. Alan Men’s Grooming Salon, and C. Alan Salon Suites—serving students, professionals, and the wider community.
Bennett Career Institute
A nationally accredited career institution offering cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, braiding, instructor training, and workforce development—educating thousands of graduates for successful careers in beauty and wellness.
“Welcome to The C. Alan Experience, where beauty meets excellence, education inspires opportunity, and every experience is designed to build the next generation of leaders.”
My Motto