Nick Baynes, a local entrepreneur known as Nick "Da" Barber, is set to graduate this month with a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies from the University of Cincinnati, as reported by the university’s news site. At 40, Baynes embodies tenacity, simultaneously running businesses, maintaining family life, and completing his higher education—a feat that resonates with many nontraditional students who navigate similar complexities to achieve their academic goals.
Baynes's tale begins over a decade ago, carving a path from high school graduate to college student athlete and then to business owner when facing the prospect of job insecurity due to budget cuts. Transitioning from his original plan to teach, according to the University of Cincinnati's article, he thought, "I figured if I work for myself, I can’t fire myself," leading him to exit his pursuit of education with just four classes remaining. Starting his own barbershop at 2601 Short Vine St., Baynes’s clientele includes UC’s football and basketball players. With a strong presence on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, he's grown his brand beyond the barbershop, delving into apparel and aiming to sell official UC merchandise.
Despite the success, Baynes felt compelled to complete his unfinished degree, driven by a desire to set an example of completion for his three daughters. Keeping his educational pursuit under wraps from most people except his immediate family and a cousin, Baynes re-enrolled at UC in 2024 for the online Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies program. The flexibility of the online program was pivotal, as Baynes managed his time between work, school, and vending events for his clothing lines.
"The flexibility was amazing," Baynes told the University of Cincinnati, explaining how he integrated coursework into his busy schedule. Even when traveling for business, he remained organized to keep up with assignments—a testament to his tech-savviness and ability to navigate online learning platforms like Canvas. Although he missed two assignments once while traveling, he managed to work around obstacles and maintain good grades throughout his educational journey.
Graduation for Baynes signals not just personal achievement but also the fulfillment of a responsibility—a demonstration to his daughters and the broader community that perseverance can lead to success. "It’s the only thing I haven’t finished—I don’t quit a lot," he said in a statement obtained by UC News, indicating the importance of this milestone. Now, with the impending completion of his degree, he hopes to further cement his business relationships within the UC community and serve as an inspiration to others balancing work and education.
The University of Cincinnati holds a commitment to making education accessible for adult learners, with programs that leverage real-world experience and offer flexible learning options. As Baynes prepares to accept his diploma, his story acts as a powerful reminder of the possibilities that come with determination and the pursuit of one's ambitions, no matter the time it takes to see them through.
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