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By Amanda Kehrer, NDVS Education & Employment Specialist
After serving 28 distinguished years in the U.S. Navy and retiring as an O6 (US Navy Captain), including a final assignment at the Pentagon as Chief for Logistics Data Strategies and IT Modernization for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, veteran Lillian Abuan decided it was time for a new mission: pursuing her lifelong passion for makeup artistry and special effects.
“Since high school, I’ve always loved makeup,” Lillian shares. “After following orders and serving in a military structure for nearly three decades, I wanted something fun and creative. I didn’t want another corporate position—I wanted to finally be my own boss.”
That desire led Lillian to L Makeup Institute in Las Vegas, a premier school for aspiring makeup and special effects artists. What stood out to her wasn’t just the curriculum or the ability to use her Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits, it was the people.
“I had an amazing interview with Lisa Torti, Director of L Makeup Institute,” Lillian recalls. “She genuinely believed in their mission and in every student who walks through the door. I could tell they cared, especially about veterans.”
L Makeup Institute offers a wide range of courses beyond traditional cosmetology, including special effects, airbrush, body painting, and character makeup. Veterans like Lillian appreciate the structure of the 8-month program, the one-on-one instruction in small class settings, and the hands-on support provided during and after the program. Students graduate not just with new skills, but also with a polished resume, professional portfolio, and job placement assistance.
For Lillian, the experience has been transformative. “I found freedom to be artistic and express myself. Learning how to age someone with makeup or create character looks—it’s opened my imagination again.”
Set to graduate on July 14th, Lillian plans to stay in Las Vegas and launch her own business. With the city's booming entertainment, wedding, and film industries, she sees endless opportunities. “I want to be a part of it all."
Her advice to fellow veterans?
“Just do it! Transitioning to civilian life after the military can be scary, but finding a passion and a supportive place like L Makeup Institute makes all the difference.”
Lillian’s work is showcased on her professional social media accounts, where she can be contacted to book her services.
Facebook: @lillianabuan
Located in the heart of Las Vegas, L Makeup Institute is a nationally recognized school that specializes in professional makeup artistry, special effects, and body painting. With federal VA education benefits (like the Post 9/11 GI Bill) approved programs, veterans can use their education benefits to pursue training in a creative, hands-on environment that leads to real-world careers in entertainment, beauty, fashion, weddings, and film.
Why Veterans Choose L Makeup Institute:
Post-9/11 GI Bill® accepted
Small class sizes with one-on-one instruction
Career support services including resume building, portfolio creation, and job placement.
Creative programs ranging from beauty to special effects makeup
A veteran-friendly staff who understands the transition to civilian life
For more information, visit: www.lmi.edu
Copyright © 2025 Nevada Department of Veterans Services
