03.02.22
The Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC) is now accepting applications for the Madam C.J. Walker Scholarship.
First awarded in 2021 and funded by the generous support of Mary Kay Inc., the scholarship supports under-represented minority students of any gender identity pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in chemical, physical, medical, pharmaceutical, biological, or related sciences and technology, relative to the cosmetics and personal care industry. Two $5,000 scholarships will be awarded again this year. The application period began on March 1 and will close on May 1. The Scholarship Selection Committee will select and notify the awardees on or about Aug. 1.
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.
At the time of her death, she had helped create the role of the 20th Century, self-made American businesswoman; established herself as a pioneer of the modern black hair-care and cosmetics industry; and set standards in the African-American community for corporate and community giving.
“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 innovation officer, product and science 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.”
In addition to the $5,000 scholarships, each awardee will receive a travel voucher, accommodations, student poster, and registration to attend the SCC 76th Annual Scientific Meeting & Showcase, Dec. 12-14, 2022, in Los Angeles, CA, where they will be presented with a ceremonial scholarship check at the Awards Breakfast. Last year, the awardees had the pleasure of meeting Madam Walker’s great- great granddaughter and biographer, A’Lelia Bundles, at the breakfast.
Learn more at madamcjwalker.com/about.