SCC introduces 2024 Education Award to achievement honors

08-Jul-2024 - Last updated on 09-Jul-2024 at 14:53 GMT

"The hallmark of the SCC experience has always been the outstanding education opportunities we provide to the industry, and this newest award specifically recognizes the areas of education and mentorship as an essential contribution to advancing cosmetic science," said Erica O'Grady, CEO of the SCC. © Rafe Swan Getty Images

We spoke to the Society of Cosmetic Chemists' CEO for her insights into how this year's Achievement Awards are spotlighting noteworthy contributions in cosmetic science, including a brand-new honor for excellence in education and mentorship.

The Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC) has announced that nominations for its 2024 Achievement Awards are now open. This year, the SCC is introducing the new SCC Education Award, which recognizes SCC members who have made outstanding contributions to the field of cosmetic science education.

We spoke to Erica L. O'Grady, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of SCC, who highlighted the importance of these awards: "Each year, the SCC acknowledges innovative research, advancements, and significant contributions in the cosmetic sciences. With education such a significant part of our organizational DNA, these prestigious awards recognize some of the best endeavors in the industry."

Recognizing essential contributions to cosmetic science advancement

In addition to the newly added Education Award, this year's SCC Achievement Awards include the Maison G. Denavarre Medal Award, recognizing "individuals for their accomplishments in activities supporting the cosmetic industry's best interests through technical contributions," as well as the Florence Wall Women in Cosmetic Chemistry Award, which "honors a woman for significant accomplishments in the cosmetic industry through technical contributions, leadership skills, and business excellence," according to the SCC's press release.

O'Grady explained that the awards are significant because the winners are "recognized subject matter experts in their fields, and their works symbolize the knowledge and collaboration that continues to inspire innovation within the industry."

Regarding the new SCC Education Award, O'Grady noted, "The hallmark of the SCC experience has always been the outstanding education opportunities we provide to the industry, and this newest award specifically recognizes the areas of education and mentorship as an essential contribution to advancing cosmetic science."

The introduction of the SCC Education Award is expected to impact cosmetic science education and mentorship significantly. O'Grady emphasized, "This award celebrates education and recognizes the significant role of ongoing professional development and continuous learning and the impact that they can have on a career."

Further, she added, "honoring the excellence, creativity, and innovation of the educators who have made a positive impact on the industry and the society will inspire the next generation of industry leaders."

How to participate

The nomination and selection process for the Achievement Awards, including the new SCC Education Award, involves several criteria. "Nominees for the award will be evaluated based on various educational contributions and achievements; technical presentations and/or published works; mentorship activities; professional references; and other relevant information provided by the nominator," O'Grady explained.

Participating in the nomination process can benefit both individuals and the industry. "For individuals, benefits can be many, including career advancement, enhanced credibility, expanded professional networks, and acknowledgement of excellence, to name a few," said O'Grady, who added that "these nominations assist in shedding light on a body of work in the industry, motivating and inspiring others to share knowledge and support the next generation of cosmetic scientists."

O'Grady also shared insights about how the Awards fit into the SCC's overall omission and contributions. "Over the past 10 years alone," she explained, "the SCC has developed and delivered more than 100 unique education programs covering topics from aerosol technologies, antiperspirants/deodorants, color cosmetics, fragrance, gene expression, hair/ethnic hair care, imaging technologies, natural/organics, polymers, preservatives, use of raw materials, industry regulations, rheology, scale up, skin care, sunscreens, and more."

Additionally, she shared further, "our new specialized Certificate Program (recently launched in June) will help the SCC fulfill its mission of advancing cosmetic science through industry education."

Nominations for these awards are open online through Monday, July 15, 2024, via the SCC's website. Industry professionals are encouraged to nominate peers who have made significant contributions to the field of cosmetic science.