Scholarships

The Leo Passage “Pass it On” Advanced Education for Educators Scholarship – Spring 2026

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

The Leo Passage “Pass it On” Advanced Education for Educators Scholarship

In partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, Pivot Point International is proud to announce the creation of two prestigious scholarships in 2025 for both students and educators to honor the legacy of our founder, Leo Passage. A world-renowned hairdresser, passionate educator, and trailblazing visionary, Leo Passage built a career rooted in three core values: bravery, curiosity, and the power of sharing knowledge.

Leo’s bravery was evident early in his life when, as a young boy, he helped Jews escape persecution during World War II, risking his own safety to stand up for others. His boundless curiosity drove him to leave his home country in Europe with only $75 in his pocket, embarking on a journey to the United States to see the world and pursue new opportunities. And his commitment to sharing knowledge transformed the beauty, barbering and wellness industry—Leo pioneered an entirely new way of teaching that continues to empower students and educators around the globe.

These Spring & Fall season scholarships aim to celebrate and inspire individuals who embody these principles, ensuring Leo’s legacy lives on through the next generation of students and education leaders.

Award Amount | # of Recipients

Two (2) scholarships worth up to $2,500.

Spring 2026 season open from March 1 – April 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM PST.

*One (1) $2,500 scholarships is open to any eligible school/institution, One (1) $2,500 scholarship is open to a Pivot Point International Partner School.

Applicant Qualifications

The applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the start date of the program.
Must be a licensed or, if licensing is not required in the applicants State in the U.S./U.S. Territory or Canada, an established and practicing Cosmetology/Barbering Instructor/Educator, working consistently in the Industry, are newly accepted or currently enrolled in an advanced educational program that can be used for continuing education credits for licensing or career development.
Application Requirements

1. Cosmetology/Barbering Instructor/Educator enrolled in an advanced educational course or program that can be used for continuing education or career development. You must submit the following information for the advanced educational course or program.

Description of the course or program – objectives, curriculum synopsis and goals
Location and Duration of the course or program
Total cost of the course or program; including any possible expenses
2. Provide a copy of your resume showing proof of working consistently as an educator/teacher within the professional beauty industry.

3. Upload a copy of your current registered license to practice in the residing state, if applicable.

4. Watch the Leo Passage documentary “A journey of alchemy, passion, and inspiration” HERE, to answer the questions below.

5. Submit a THREE-MINUTE MAXIMUM, YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions:

Leo Passage’s legacy is built on the core values of bravery, curiosity, and the power of sharing knowledge. How have you demonstrated these values on your journey in the industry, and how do you hope to carry them forward in your career?
Leo Passage overcame many obstacles that shaped his life. What challenges have you overcome to get here?
How can you embody the phrase “Pass It On” as an educator within the professional beauty industry?
How will a scholarship impact financial need?
“Seek and appreciate the best mentors in your life. Surround yourself with people who have a positive attitude and always believe in you. Dedicate yourself to lifelong learning and make your career a hobby so you have fun doing it.” ~ Leo Passage

ABOUT PIVOT POINT INTERNATIONAL & THE LEO PASSAGE ENDOWMENT FUND

By investing in educators and students, the Leo Passage Scholarships will honor his enduring legacy and support the growth of a vibrant, innovative beauty, barbering and wellness industry. These scholarships will empower individuals who share his vision to lead, inspire, and elevate the profession. BCL & PPI will also be afforded permission to leverage the content for future branding/marketing purposes.

Together, Pivot Point International and Beauty Changes Lives will continue Leo Passage’s mission: to change lives through education and creativity in the beauty, barbering and wellness industry.

These scholarships are generously funded by Pivot Point International & The Leo Passage Endowment Fund.

Pass It On Educator Scholarship Recipients Spring 2025
Honoring the Past and Celebrating the Future: Leo Passage Scholarship Winners (Spring 2025)

Read HERE.

At Pivot Point, we believe education transforms lives. That belief was at the core of our founder, Leo Passage, whose legacy is rooted in creativity, innovation, and the power of sharing knowledge. To carry his vision forward, we proudly partnered with Beauty Changes Lives to present the Leo Passage Scholarships—two opportunities designed to uplift students and educators who are shaping the future of the beauty industry.

We are thrilled to celebrate the Spring 2025 recipients of both the Dare to Lead Student Scholarship and the Pass It On Educator Scholarship.

The Pass It On Educator Scholarship invests in licensed educators who dedicate themselves to inspiring and developing tomorrow’s professionals. Each award provides $2,500 toward advanced education, ensuring that educators can continue to grow while mentoring others.

We proudly recognize this year’s recipients:

Jennifer Kuhn

Eric Fisher Academy

Wichita, KS

@jfry0408

View Instagram post with winning submission HERE.

Ellysse Clark

Tennessee School of Beauty

Knoxville, TN

@yourhairy.godmother

View Instagram post with winning submission HERE.

Jennifer and Ellysse exemplify what it means to “pass it on.” Their commitment to learning and teaching ensures that future beauty professionals receive not just technical training, but inspiration, guidance, and a model of lifelong growth.

Continuing Leo Passage’s Legacy
The Leo Passage Scholarships are more than financial support—they are a living tribute to Leo’s belief that education empowers individuals and uplifts communities. Through these awards, his spirit of generosity, leadership, and innovation continues to thrive in students and educators alike.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Olivia, Hugo, Jennifer, and Ellysse. Their achievements and dedication represent the very best of what beauty education can offer. They remind us that the future of the industry is in strong, capable hands.

Apply Here

The Leo Passage “Dare to Lead” Cosmetology* Student Scholarship – Spring 2026

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

The Leo Passage “Dare to Lead” Cosmetology and Barbering Student Scholarship

In partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, Pivot Point International is proud to announce the creation of two prestigious scholarships in 2026 for both students and educators to honor the legacy of our founder, Leo Passage. A world-renowned hairdresser, passionate educator, and trailblazing visionary, Leo Passage built a career rooted in three core values: bravery, curiosity, and the power of sharing knowledge.

Leo’s bravery was evident early in his life when, as a young boy, he helped Jews escape persecution during World War II, risking his own safety to stand up for others. His boundless curiosity drove him to leave his home country in Europe with only $75 in his pocket, embarking on a journey to the United States to see the world and pursue new opportunities. And his commitment to sharing knowledge transformed the beauty, barbering, and wellness industry—Leo pioneered an entirely new way of teaching that continues to empower students and educators around the globe.

These Spring & Fall season scholarships aim to celebrate and inspire individuals who embody these principles, ensuring Leo’s legacy lives on through the next generation of students and education leaders.

 

 

Award Amount | # of Recipients

Two (2) Tuition Scholarships, up to $7,500 each. TOTAL $15,000 per season.*

Spring 2026 season open from March 1 – April 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM PST.

*One (1) $7,500 scholarship is open to any eligible school/institution, One (1) $7,500 scholarship is open to a Pivot Point International Partner School.  

Eligibility Requirements

• The applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the start date of the program.
• Must be a student newly accepted or currently enrolled in a cosmetology or barbering program,  in a school/institution in the United States, U.S. Territories, or Canada that is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The program must lead to licensure in the United States and the equivalent in Canada.

Application Requirements

1. Complete online application and submit proof of enrollment in a cosmetology or barbering program by uploading your: acceptance letter, progress report, or official letter from the school/institution.
2. Watch the Leo Passage documentary “A journey of alchemy, passion, and inspiration” HERE, to answer the questions below.
3. Submit a THREE-MINUTE MAXIMUM, YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions:

• Leo Passage’s legacy is built on the core values of bravery, curiosity, and the power of sharing knowledge. How have you demonstrated these values on your journey in the industry, and how do you hope to carry them forward in your career?
• Leo Passage overcame many obstacles that shaped his life.  What challenges have you overcome to get here?
• How can you embody the phrase “Dare to Lead” while you complete this chapter of your career?
• How will this scholarship impact your financial needs?

“Seek and appreciate the best mentors in your life. Surround yourself with people who have a positive attitude and always believe in you. Dedicate yourself to lifelong learning and make your career a hobby so you have fun doing it.”                                                                                                          ~ Leo Passage

ABOUT PIVOT POINT INTERNATIONAL & THE LEO PASSAGE ENDOWMENT FUND

By investing in educators and students, the Leo Passage Scholarships will honor his enduring legacy and support the growth of a vibrant, innovative beauty, barbering, and wellness industry. These scholarships will empower individuals who share his vision to lead, inspire, and elevate the profession. BCL & PPI will also be afforded permission to leverage the content for future branding/marketing purposes.

Together, Pivot Point International and Beauty Changes Lives will continue Leo Passage’s mission: to change lives through education and creativity in the beauty, barbering, and wellness industry.

These scholarships are generously funded by Pivot Point International & The Leo Passage Endowment Fund.

 

Dare to Lead Student Scholarship Recipients

Honoring the Past and Celebrating the Future: Leo Passage Scholarship Winners (Spring 2025)

Read HERE.

At Pivot Point, we believe education transforms lives. That belief was at the core of our founder, Leo Passage, whose legacy is rooted in creativity, innovation, and the power of sharing knowledge. To carry his vision forward, we proudly partnered with Beauty Changes Lives to present the Leo Passage Scholarships—two opportunities designed to uplift students and educators who are shaping the future of the beauty industry.

We are thrilled to celebrate the Spring 2025 recipients of both the Dare to Lead Student Scholarship and the Pass It On Educator Scholarship.

The Dare to Lead Student Scholarship awards $7,500 each to two cosmetology or barbering students who embody creativity, leadership, and the drive to innovate. These scholarships support students eager to push boundaries and inspire the next generation of beauty professionals.

We proudly recognize this year’s recipients:

Olivia Bradin

Douglas J Aveda Institute 

Royal Oak, MI

@ob.artistry

View Instagram post with winning submission HERE.

Hugo Cifuentes

Aveda Arts & Science Institute

Arlington, VA

@hairaffair_byhc

View Instagram post with winning submission HERE.

Olivia and Hugo have demonstrated not only exceptional artistry but also the leadership qualities that will help shape the future of our industry. Their passion and vision remind us that the next wave of leaders is already here.

Continuing Leo Passage’s Legacy

The Leo Passage Scholarships are more than financial support—they are a living tribute to Leo’s belief that education empowers individuals and uplifts communities. Through these awards, his spirit of generosity, leadership, and innovation continues to thrive in students and educators alike.

We extend our warmest congratulations to Olivia, Hugo, Jennifer, and Ellysse. Their achievements and dedication represent the very best of what beauty education can offer. They remind us that the future of the industry is in strong, capable hands.

Apply Here

Mizani “Empowering Diversity” Student Cosmetology Scholarship – Spring 2026

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

Scholarship Description & Award Information   L’Oréal Professionnel prides itself on demonstrating one of their core values to support diversity and equality within the hairdressing profession, the scholarship awards up to $5,000 in tuition funding for students enrolled or accepted in a cosmetology program at any accredited institution whose service demonstrates a commitment to justice, equity, and diversity.      The Empowering Diversity Scholarship is dedicated to the memory of Sheena Coleman, a much-loved member of the L’Oréal Professionnel Education Team who sadly passed away in 2020. Sheena’s love and passion for educating and inspiring others will live on as we dedicate the Empowering Diversity Scholarship in her memory.

Award Amount | # of Recipients

One (1) $5,000 Scholarship

Applications accepted for the Spring 2026 Scholarship Season starting March 1 – April 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM PST. Applicant Qualifications

• The applicants must identify as Black, Indigenous, or Persons of Color (BIPOC).
• This scholarship is open to new or currently enrolled students in a cosmetology program that leads to licensure at an accredited school in the U.S.
• The applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the start date of the program at the accredited school/institution.

Application Requirements

1. Complete online application and submit proof of enrollment for a cosmetology program by uploading your: progress report or official acceptance letter from your school.
2. Submit a THREE-MINUTE MAXIMUM, YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions:

• When was the moment you decided a career in beauty was your passion?
• What can the industry do better to support diversity and equality within the profession?
• Who is a role model you look up to that makes you strive to be the best at your craft?
• How will a scholarship impact your financial needs?

Apply Here

L’Oréal Professionnel “Inspiration through Education” Cosmetology Student Scholarship – Spring 2026

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

L’Oréal Professionnel “Inspiration through Education” Cosmetology Student Scholarship

Scholarship Description & Award Information

At L’Oréal Professionnel, we believe that education is the most powerful tool to grow, inspire, and develop hair artists of tomorrow.  Our values of professional proof, inspiring education, creating trends, and pioneering research showcase that our brand aspires to empower our salon partners and artists to succeed. The scholarship awards up to $5,000 in tuition funding for students enrolled or accepted in a cosmetology program at any accredited institution.

Award Amount | # of Recipients

One (1) $5,000 Scholarship

Spring 2026 Scholarship season starts March 1 – April 30, 2026,at 11:59 PM PST.

Applicant Qualifications

• This scholarship is open to new or currently enrolled students in a cosmetology program that leads to licensure at an accredited school in the U.S.
• The applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the start date of the program at the accredited school/institution.
• Family members of L’Oréal Professionnel or the Franchisor are not eligible for this scholarship. Past winners of LP Scholarships cannot apply.

Application Requirements

1. Complete online application and submit proof of enrollment for a cosmetology program by uploading your: progress report or official acceptance letter from your school.
2. Submit a THREE-MINUTE MAXIMUM, YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions:

• What is your dream job, and what does that look like once you graduate?
• Why is education essential now and throughout your career to achieve your goals and succeed?
• Name someone within the beauty industry who inspires and motivates you to continue to learn?
• How will this scholarship impact your financial needs? 

About L’Oréal Professionnel

Since 1909, L’Oréal has devoted itself solely to one business: beauty. It is a business rich in meaning, as it enables all individuals to express their personalities, gain self-confidence, and feel confident in others. Our passion continues to grow deeper. Today, our goal remains unchanged: to empower beautiful transformations and create products that inspire confidence.

 

Apply Here

Jerry Alexander Gorman Foundation “The Passion to Succeed” Esthetics/Nail Tech – Spring 2026

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

The Jerry Alexander Gorman Foundation “The Passion to Succeed” Cosmetology, Hair Design, or Barbering Student Scholarship

Jerry Alexander Gorman lived a life dedicated to his passion for the professional beauty industry. As a young man, with a new family to support, he took evening classes to become a licensed cosmetologist, while working full-time during the day. His perseverance for success did not stop there. After working for years as a hairdresser, he soon opened his first salon and, many years later, became a national sales manager for a major manufacturer of salon and home beauty products. After years of experience, he channeled his love for the industry and decided to give back by becoming a successful and beloved educator.

In that spirit, his family formed the Jerry Alexander Gorman Foundation in his memory in 2015. The foundation was created with its main emphasis on awarding scholarships for students, specifically to those living in lower-income families, to support their education in any discipline within the professional beauty industry.

Scholarship Description & Award Information

The Jerry Alexander Gorman Foundation “The Passion to Succeed” Student Scholarship was formed to support those in need to achieve their goal of becoming a licensed professional. The scholarship will be awarded through the Beauty Changes Lives Foundation and is open to newly accepted or currently enrolled students in a cosmetology, hair design, or barbering that leads to licensure in the U.S.

Award Amount | # of Recipients  One (1) $3,500 scholarship for Esthetics/Nail Technology Students.

For the Spring 2026 Scholarship season, open from March 1 – April 30, 2026, at 11:59 PST.

Applicant Qualifications

• This scholarship is open to new or currently enrolled students in a cosmetology, hair design, or barbering program that leads to licensure at an accredited school in the U.S.
• The applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the start date of the program at the accredited school or institution.

Application Requirements

1. Complete theonline application and submit proof of enrollment/acceptance letter from an accredited school or institution.
2. Submit a 3-minute maximum YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions:

• Jerry Gorman had a passion for the industry, and he overcame many obstacles to make his dream a reality. What obstacles have you faced on your journey? 
• Why do you want to make a career in the professional beauty industry? What part of the industry drives your passion? What made you choose this profession? 
• What financial constraints have affected your ability to follow your dream? How will this scholarship be beneficial to your success? 

Apply Here

Circadia – Sage Michaela Lucas “Timing is Everything” Esthetics -Spring 2026

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

Circadia® The Sage Michaela Lucas “Timing is Everything” Esthetics Student Scholarship

The Sage Michaela Lucas “Timing is Everything” scholarship is generously funded by Circadia®, a pioneer in the science of chronobiology and skincare. Circadia® is again generously donating a total of $50,000 in Esthetics Scholarships for the Spring and Fall Season for the next two years. The Sage Michaela Lucas “Timing is Everything” award celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and affirmation.

The scholarship is open to esthetics students enrolled in an accredited program and who identify as black, indigenous and people of color (BIPOC). The scholarship grant targets esthetic students pursuing a career in aesthetics, skincare formulation and/or cosmetic chemistry.

Award Amount | # of Recipients

Two (2) $5,000 for the Spring Season from March 1 – April 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM PST.

Each awardee will receive the following:

Mentorship program that includes (3) one-hour calls with a Circadia® educator to discuss business proposals, financial overview, skincare products and services, etc. Calls will be scheduled through Circadia® and must be completed within 12 months of the recipient’s graduation date.

Applicant Qualifications

• The applicants must identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color)
• Must be a currently enrolled (or a newly accepted student) in a in an esthetics program that leads to licensure in the U.S.
• The applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the start date of the program at the accredited school/institution.

Application Requirements

1. Complete online application and submit proof of enrollment from an esthetics program by uploading your: progress report, or official acceptance letter from an accredited school/institution.
2. Submit a 3-minute maximum, YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions (if the video exceeds the 3-minute requirement the application will be declined):

• How will a scholarship impact your financial needs?
• If you were to win this scholarship, how do you plan to “pay it forward” once they have entered the industry to inspire the next generation of BIPOC hopefuls who have similar goals?
• Name a person in the beauty industry that you know personally or follow-on social media that motivates you or positively impacts you to stay committed to your dreams despite obstacles. Explain what is it about their story that gives you the most hope in your own career?
• Describe challenges you have overcome or life-changing situations that turned into valuable lessons. What did you learn about yourself and how did you grow from these situations?

 About Circadia

Facebook: facebook.com/Circadia – We also have the group ‘Circadia Educational Forum’ (facebook.com/groups/Circadia)

IG: @Circadia

TikTok: @CircadiaSkincare 

Apply Here

Dermalogica Future Industry Professionals Esthetics (BIPOC) Student Scholarship – Spring 2026

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

Dermalogica® is continuing its support of the beauty industry by generously funding esthetics scholarship since 2020. For nearly 40 years, Dermalogica® has empowered skin therapists to unleash their potential. Founded by Jane Wurwand out of a desire to provide best-in-class products, education, and training in the professional skin care industry, Dermalogica® today trains 100,000 skin therapists per year and is the #1 choice of skin professionals worldwide. Through a commitment to education, personalization, and human touch, plus science-driven formulas, Dermalogica® champions skin health, not beauty.

The Future Industry Professionals Esthetics Scholarship is open to students who are newly accepted or currently enrolled in an esthetics program at a Dermalogica® Partner School, and identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Color. The esthetics student scholarship will be awarded through Beauty Changes Lives.

Award Amount | # of Recipients

One (1) $5,000 for the Spring 2026 season, open March 1 – April 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM PST. Applicant Qualifications

• The applicants must identify as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color)
• Must be a currently enrolled (or a newly accepted student) in a Dermalogica® Partner School, leading to licensure in the U.S.
• The applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the start date of the program at the accredited school/institution.

Application Requirements

1. Complete online application and submit proof of enrollment from an esthetics program by uploading your: progress report, or official acceptance letter from a Dermalogica® Partner School.
2. Submit a 3-minute maximum, YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions (if the video exceeds the 3-minute requirement the application will be declined):

• Describe how receiving this scholarship would impact your life. How will this scholarship impact your financial needs? What are your short-term and long-term goals? 
• Why is esthetics your passion? How has your experience with your own skin shaped your passion?
• How will you use your career in esthetics to benefit your community?
• How does human connection inspire you in skin care?

 

*Ask your administrator if your school is a Dermalogica® Partner School, before beginning the application.

Apply Here

Jerry Alexander Gorman Foundation “The Passion to Succeed” Cosmo, Hairstyling/Barbering – Spring 2026.

Application Deadline: May 1, 2026

The Jerry Alexander Gorman Foundation “The Passion to Succeed” Cosmetology, Hair Design, or Barbering Student Scholarship

Jerry Alexander Gorman lived a life dedicated to his passion for the professional beauty industry. As a young man, with a new family to support, he took evening classes to become a licensed cosmetologist, while working full-time during the day. His perseverance for success did not stop there. After working for years as a hairdresser, he soon opened his first salon and, many years later, became a national sales manager for a major manufacturer of salon and home beauty products. After years of experience, he channeled his love for the industry and decided to give back by becoming a successful and beloved educator.

In that spirit, his family formed the Jerry Alexander Gorman Foundation in his memory in 2015. The foundation was created with its main emphasis on awarding scholarships for students, specifically to those living in lower-income families, to support their education in any discipline within the professional beauty industry.

Scholarship Description & Award Information

The Jerry Alexander Gorman Foundation “The Passion to Succeed” Student Scholarship was formed to support those in need to achieve their goal of becoming a licensed professional. The scholarship will be awarded through the Beauty Changes Lives Foundation and is open to newly accepted or currently enrolled students in a cosmetology, hair design, or barbering that leads to licensure in the U.S.

Award Amount | # of Recipients  Two (2) $6,500 scholarships for Cosmetology, Hair Design, or Barbering Students.

For the Spring 2026 Scholarship season, open from March 1 – April 30, 2026, at 11:59 PST.

Applicant Qualifications

• This scholarship is open to new or currently enrolled students in a cosmetology, hair design, or barbering program that leads to licensure at an accredited school in the U.S.
• The applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the start date of the program at the accredited school or institution.

Application Requirements

1. Complete theonline application and submit proof of enrollment/acceptance letter from an accredited school or institution.
2. Submit a 3-minute maximum YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions:

• Jerry Gorman had a passion for the industry, and he overcame many obstacles to make his dream a reality. What obstacles have you faced on your journey? 
• Why do you want to make a career in the professional beauty industry? What part of the industry drives your passion? What made you choose this profession? 
• What financial constraints have affected your ability to follow your dream? How will this scholarship be beneficial to your success? 

Apply Here