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Patrick Jenkins

Founder & Master Barber

Four Decades of Craftsmanship, A Lifetime of Mentorship
40+
Years Experience
250+
Successful Graduates
2006
Academy Founded

For over four decades, Patrick Jenkins hasn't just been cutting hair—he's been shaping futures. What began as a passion for the craft of barbering evolved into a calling to teach, mentor, and transform lives through education.

From Louisiana Roots to Albuquerque Impact

Born in Lafayette, Louisiana, and raised in Jeanerette, Patrick moved to Albuquerque in 1986 with determination and talent. He earned his barber's license in 1992 and opened a humble single-chair shop on Kathryn and San Mateo—which quickly became the most sought-after grooming destination in Albuquerque's Southeast area through word-of-mouth and exceptional service.

"I realized my greatest satisfaction wasn't in the haircuts I gave," Patrick shares, "but in seeing someone I'd mentored give their first perfect fade. That moment when confidence meets skill—that's why I created A Better U."

Building an Educational Legacy

In 2006, Patrick transformed his vision into reality, founding A Better U Beauty Barber Academy. By 2018, 250 graduates were working in the industry, prompting expansion to the state-of-the-art facility at 5400 Phoenix Ave NE. Today, ABU graduates are among the most sought-after professionals in the Southwest.

"

When you graduate from ABU, you don't just leave with a license. You leave with a legacy—the ability to transform lives, one haircut at a time, just as yours was transformed here.

"

— Patrick Jenkins

Community Impact & Recognition

Awards & Recognition

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Community Award
    Grant Chapel AME Church – 2018
  • HERO Award
    State of New Mexico Office of African American Affairs – 2017
  • Citizenship Award
    New Hope Full Gospel Baptist Church – 2015
  • Community Business Leadership Award
    State of New Mexico House of Representatives – 2011

Community Leadership

  • 1st Assistant to Bishop David C. Cooper
    New Hope Full Gospel Baptist Church
  • Executive Advisory Council Member
    New Hope Full Gospel Baptist Church
  • Executive Board Member
    WESST Enterprise Center Advisory, Money Tree Project
  • Director of MOVE
    Men of Valor Everywhere, New Hope Full Gospel Baptist Church

Our Vision

At ABU Academy, we know the power of a haircut. When you look good, you feel good. Period. That's why we collaborate with local shelters to serve confidence to our city's destitute population. Our student barbers and instructors are trained to produce hair transformations that will change the way you look, the way you feel, and how the world sees you.

2025 A Better U Beauty Barber Academy