Circadia, a pioneer in the science of chronobiology and skincare, is generously funding the Sage Michaela Lucas Timing is Everything scholarship. The $50,000 scholarship awards tuition funding to support biracial, indigenous and persons of color (BIPOC) pursuing a career in the professional esthetics sector.
A commitment to educational equality for all students inspired Circadia CEO Michael Pugliese to establish the scholarship. As a long-time advocate for inclusivity and diversity, Michael saw how students in under-served communities often lacked access to emerging protocols and advanced skincare science. “Traveling around the U.S. as an educator, it became clear to me that some esthetic students were at a disadvantage based on educational resources in their communities. As a company with formulations rooted in science, Circadia understands the critical role of the esthetician in delivering skincare therapy and prescribing advanced protocols,” he said.
Founded by Michael’s grandfather Peter T. Pugilese, M.D., an innovator in the science of chronobiology, Circadia brings a precision approach to cosmetic formulations adapted to skin’s diurnal and nocturnal behavior. “Timing is everything in skincare and early access to quality education can set students up for lifetime success,” says Michael. The Sage Michaela Lucas Timing is Everything scholarship competition will begin accepting applications in January, awarding two spring and three fall scholarship awards annually through 2022.
While the scholarship’s name honors Michael’s daughter who identifies as a person of color, the funding reflects Circadia’s core values of inclusivity, diversity and education. “As a company committed to equality in education, Circadia has a responsibility to nurture and support under-represented esthetic students while helping the industry build a more diverse cohort of professionals,” he said.
“Beauty Changes Lives is honored that a precision skincare line trusted by elite spas and salons around the globe is raising awareness of the science behind the skincare, while helping advance a social movement and celebrate the diversity of an amazing industry,” said Lynelle Lynch, president of Beauty Changes Lives.
Scholarship applicants are required to submit a 3-5minute video expressing why they seek to enter the esthetics industry and how they aim to celebrate diversity and inclusivity in their career. More information is available at beautychangeslives.org
About Circadia: Circadia was founded by Peter T. Pugliese, M.D. in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania in 2001. Following in his grandfather’s footsteps, Michael Q. Pugliese, L.E., has expanded Circadia to over 30 countries. Circadia Skin Care has been a pioneer in bringing the concept of Circadian rhythms to the health and wellness industries. For more information, visit www.circadia.com.
About the Beauty Changes Lives Foundation: With a mission to elevate, educate and empower, Beauty Changes Lives is uniting the industry and building awareness of the extraordinary career opportunities in the beauty, wellness and massage therapy industries. Learn more at www.beautychangeslives.org or find us on Facebook and Instagram.