Award-Winning Hair Care Brand Design Essentials Pledges $2 Million to Support Historically Black Colleges and Universities The Beauty Brand Leading in Healthy Hair Care Systems Upholds Commitment to Future Leaders with Impactful Donation to Spelman College and Howard University
ATLANTA, GA
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October 03, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Design Essentials, the Atlanta-based Black-owned company leading in premium hair care for nearly 35 years, is proud to contribute $1 million dollars to Spelman College in Atlanta towards the launch of their Cosmetic Science Program, and $1 million dollars to Howard University in Washington D.C. for the creation of The Design Essentials Community Fund. As part of its continued commitment to consumers and future leaders, Design Essentials is leveraging its expertise in healthy haircare practices for all hair types to inspire and give back to the next generation of leaders and innovators. The pledges reflect the brands belief in philanthropy through donations and resources to local and international communities.
Design Essentials aims to make a meaningful impact through give-back initiatives focused on community enrichment, education and mentorship, while also serving its professional and consumer network. Improving access to resources that cater to Black women and men for career advancement, the brand is continuing to create inclusive and diverse spaces, along with premium expert-backed products for textured hair.
Spelman College is a global leader in the education of women of African descent. The partnership will directly contribute to Spelman’s Cosmetic Science Program – the first-ever major of its kind available at an HBCU (Historically Black College and University). The groundbreaking STEM program offers a culturally relevant approach with unique perspectives from Black women through research and working knowledge of trends and innovations, students will explore the use of cosmetics and personal care products, particularly in communities of African descent. The pledge will impact the innovative research and development of products, connecting future chemists with the core consumer to achieve efficacy and representation in the products they use.
Howard University is one of the leading research universities dedicated to educating students from diverse backgrounds. The launch of The Design Essentials Community Fund will pave the way for Howard University School of Business students who aspire to become entrepreneurs and business leaders. Cornell McBride, Jr., President of McBride Research Laboratories, Inc. and a Howard University alumna, credits his business acumen to the success of flagship brand Design Essentials over the past two decades. Students will gain access to business training programs, including business pitch competitions, business plan advisory services, marketing and branding bootcamps, capital-raising modules, and opportunities to learn about new software and technology.
“We are incredibly honored to support the future leaders at these HBCUs during this moment in history,” states Cornell McBride Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer of McBride Research Laboratories. As a Howard University alum, McBride Jr. is dedicated to keeping the Design Essentials legacy intact by supporting rising leaders in business and beauty industries. “It has always been our mission to create high-quality products that meet the demand of hairstyling needs, leave a footprint in social impact initiatives, and nurture individuals and scholars who will drive inclusion within the beauty industry. By investing in the first-ever cosmetic science program and ongoing entrepreneurial mentorship and career opportunities, we are reinforcing our commitment to education and ensuring that diverse voices are at the forefront of innovation in our industry.”
Design Essentials’ pledge marks the start of a broader effort to support HBCUs at a national level and nurture the connection between multicultural haircare and consumers globally. As a legacy brand, Design Essentials serves as a partner in style, fostering relationships with future leaders and brand fans to achieve styling success.
For more information on Design Essentials, please visit www.designessentials.com
For additional information on Spelman College’s Cosmetics Science Program, please visit https://www.spelman.edu/academics/cosmetic-science/index.html
For more information on Howard University, please visit https://howard.edu/
About Design Essentials
Design Essentials is a leading provider of premium hair care solutions with nearly 35 years of experience. The brand offers over 80 curated products for all hair types and textures and is committed to delivering innovative, research-driven solutions that cater to both professional and consumer needs. Design Essentials is proud to be minority-owned and operated, with a global reach and a strong commitment to giving back to communities worldwide.
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Camille Gordon
First and Last PR
Brooke Bhola
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