The Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC) is pleased to announce the creation of the Madam C.J. Walker Scholarship in support of under-represented minority students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in chemical, physical, medical, pharmaceutical, biological or related sciences and technology.
The scholarship creation is part of the SCC’s initiatives to support diversity, equity and inclusion in the cosmetic and personal care industry and is funded by the generous support of Mary Kay Inc.
Madam C.J. Walker (born Sarah Breedlove; 1867-1919) was an American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political and social activist. She is regarded as the first female self-made millionaire in America.
Walker made her fortune by developing and marketing a line of cosmetics and hair care products for Black women through the business she founded, Madam C.J. Walker Manufacturing Company.
Two scholarships, in the amount of $5,000 USD each (sponsored by Mary Kay Inc.), will be awarded to two under-represented minorities (Black/African American, Native/American Indian, and Latinx/Hispanic American) pursuing an undergraduate or post-graduate degree in chemical, physical, medical, pharmaceutical, biological or related sciences and technology.
In addition to the scholarships, SCC will provide each awardee with a $250 travel voucher, one night’s accommodation, and a complimentary full access registration to attend the SCC 75th Annual Meeting & Showcase, December 14-15, 2021 to be presented with the scholarship at the Awards Breakfast.
“Madam C. J. Walker is an icon who spent her entire career breaking through barriers to become one of the nation’s greatest entrepreneurs despite the many obstacles that stood in her path,” said Dr. Lucy Gildea, Chief Scientific Officer at Mary Kay.
“It is important that we continue to honor her legacy by supporting young, minority scientists. By partnering with SCC and creating the Madam C.J. Walker scholarship, we hope to inspire and empower the next generation of student scientists who want to follow in Walker’s footsteps.”
Diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of SCC’s organisational values. The organisation, and the industry, is strengthened by the varied identities, experiences, cultures and perspectives of our leadership, employees and members.
We encourage all of our members, and the global industry as a whole, to join us in ensuring that the voices of the oppressed are heard and to actively support efforts to end systemic racism and injustices both here and abroad.
“The SCC is committed to efforts to support diversity, equity and inclusion for all participants in the cosmetics and personal care industry,” said Erica O’Grady, CAE, CEO of the Society.
“We are grateful for the generous support of our scholarship sponsor, Mary Kay Inc., in assisting us with these efforts to educate under-represented groups pursuing degrees related to cosmetic and personal care product development.”