In a world where representation matters, initiatives like the Madam CJ Walker Scholarship strive to fill gaps in the cosmetic chemistry field and empower BIPOC. The scholarship, now in its fourth year, honors the work of Madam CJ Walker, a pioneer in the cosmetics industry.
We spoke to Erica O’Grady, CAE, CEO of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC), to find out more about the origins, criteria and aspirations of this scholarship, including its impact on the future of cosmetic chemistry .
Scholarship background
“Madame C.J. Walker was an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, political and social activist,” O’Grady began, adding, “She was considered America’s first self-made millionaire. “There is,” he said. “Through the business she founded, Madam C.J. Walker Manufacturing Company, she made her fortune by developing and selling a line of cosmetics and hair care products for black women,” she explained, and SCC said, “Her legacy In honor of her, the scholarship was awarded after her as she was a pioneer in the modern black hair care and cosmetics industry and set the standard for the African American community when it came to corporate and community giving. .”
The inspiration for creating the scholarship “came from considering diversity and inclusion initiatives that could impact the cosmetics and personal care industry,” O’Grady said. “Our mission focuses on education, so we were looking for a way to support STEM education for those who are underrepresented within the professional community,” she added.
The program aims to support diversity and inclusion in the cosmetic chemistry industry by “financially supporting the next generation of underrepresented individuals pursuing advanced education in cosmetic science,” she said. further said that it complements SCC’s other advocacy efforts. Includes “networking opportunities.” Internship possibilities; Scientific poster presentation with additional award opportunities. Continue professional education. and her network of over 5,500 industry professional members around the world. ”
About scholarships
To apply for SCC’s Madam C.J. Walker Scholarship, applicants must be an underrepresented gender identity (Black/Brown/African American, Native/American Indian/Indigenous person) pursuing undergraduate or graduate school. or Hispanic/Latino) with a degree in chemistry, physics, medicine, pharmacy, biology, or a related STEM field related to the cosmetics and personal care industry. explained O’Grady.
The application process is completed through an online application on the SCC website and applicants must provide the following:
- A description of how the applicant embodies the spirit and legacy of Madam CJ Walker.
- Statement of applicant’s achievements and career goals/professional development plans
- Description of applicant’s aspirations and potential impact on the cosmetics and personal care industry
- A personal statement explaining why the applicant deserves the scholarship and how it will help them achieve their goals
- Two letters of recommendation (not to exceed 2 pages each) that describe the applicant’s academic achievements, potential, and career aspirations.
Mr. O’Grady shared that those awarded the scholarship will receive multiple benefits and opportunities beyond the $5,000 scholarship.
These benefits include an invitation to “be recognized and receive a ceremonial scholarship check at the SCC Awards Breakfast on Friday, December 13th in Los Angeles,” and “SCC 78th Annual Meeting in Los Angeles. and a free full-access registration to attend the showcase. Angeles, California, December 11-13, 2024, $350 travel voucher, two free nights for her at the host hotel, and a free student poster at the showcase (win additional prizes in the student poster contest) ),” she explained.
Since the scholarship was first awarded in 2021, six recipients and four finalists have gone on to achieve Ph.D.s and other accomplishments. in Genetics, a Masters in Cosmetic Science, and was hired by the FDA.
Looking to the future
Going forward, SCC is “delighted to work with our generous scholarship sponsor Mary Kay to help reduce one of the barriers (financial) to higher education in this field for underrepresented groups,” O’Grady said. said. “As this scholarship is relatively new, we have constantly evaluated opportunities to improve and expand the scope of the program and have recently added recognition and benefits for finalists as well as award winners.” I did,” she added.
The Madam CJ Walker Scholarship, along with other efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in the cosmetic chemistry field, emphasizes the imperative of integrating inclusivity into all aspects of the industry. O’Grady therefore urged brands and organizations to think of diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I) not just as a marketing strategy, but as fundamental principles that guide their actions. “Diversity is an essential and ongoing practice across the organization. To do so, brands need to make an unwavering commitment to the people they want to advocate for them,” she concludes. I did.
The application period is now open and will end on May 17, 2024.visit https://www.scconline.org/About/Awards-and-Scholarships/Madam-CJ-Walker-ScholarshipLearn more about.
