L’Oreal Professionnel LGBTQIA+ Jeff DeShazer Memorial Scholarship Summer 2026
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Scholarship Description & Award Information
it is with both profound sadness for our loss and immense joy for his legacy that we announce the establishment of a very special scholarship, created in memory of our unforgettable colleague, mentor, and friend, Jeff DeShazer.
Jeff wasn't just a hairdresser; he was a true luminary in the beauty industry, a man whose passion for hair, for education, and for people was simply infectious. From the moment he graduated from Independence School of Cosmetology in 2007, Jeff knew he had found his calling. He wasn't just building a career; he was building a community. He went on to own his own salon, a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and skill.
His journey then led him to L'Oréal in 2015, where his talents truly flourished. Jeff embraced every role with his signature blend of enthusiasm and expertise, from Shows & Events Manager at SalonCentric to Business Development Manager at Pulp Riot, and as a Redken Educator. But it was his most recent role as Sr. Manager of Education for the L'Oréal Schools Division that truly captured his heart. He didn't just teach; he inspired, he encouraged, he championed every single cosmetology student. His greatest joy was seeing them discover their own potential, just as he had.
Beyond his incredible professional achievements, Jeff was a beacon of inclusivity. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA community, he was a passionate advocate within L'Oréal Professional Products' DE&I movement, ensuring that equality and belonging were at the forefront for everyone. His commitment to making the world a more welcoming place was as inspiring as his commitment to beauty education.
Jeff's unexpected passing in June 2024 left a profound void, but his legacy shines brightly. His radiant smile, his magnetic personality, and his boundless passion will forever be remembered by countless individuals he touched across the cosmetology industry.
Through this scholarship, we aim to empower aspiring stylists to follow their dreams, just as Jeff encouraged us all to do.
Award Amount | # of Recipients
One (1) $5,000 Scholarship
Summer 2026 Scholarship season starts on June 1 – July 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM PST.
Applicant Qualifications
- The applicant must be eighteen (18) years of age or older by the start date of the program at the accredited school/institution.
- This scholarship is open to new or currently enrolled students in a cosmetology program that leads to licensure at an accredited school/institution in the United States.
- This scholarship is open to anyone who identifies as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and ANY ALLY as defined below.
Definition of LGBTQIA+-Defined by Princeton University
LGBTQIA+ is an acronym that brings together many different genders and sexual identities that often face marginalization across society. The acronym stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, asexual, and the + holds space for the expanding and new understanding of different parts of the very diverse gender and sexual identities.
Definition of Ally-Found on It Gets Better Website
Ally
Noun. Someone who supports equal civil rights, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ social movements; advocates on behalf of others; and challenges fear and discrimination in all its forms.
Application Requirements
- Complete online application and submit proof of enrollment/acceptance in a cosmetology program and an accredited school/institution. You must upload either an enrollment document, official acceptance letter, or progress report from an accredited school
- Submit a 3-minute maximum. YouTube video with a public link answering the following questions:
- What inspired your decision to pursue a career in the professional beauty industry, and what are your long-term goals?
- How do you plan to continue developing your skills and growing your career after graduation?
- How will this scholarship support your education and help you take the next step toward your goals?
- What does creating an inclusive and welcoming space in beauty mean to you?
- How do you hope to use your career to support, uplift, or advocate for others in the community?
About L’Oréal Professional Products
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.
Our 37 international brands are divided into four unique Divisions: Luxe, Consumer Products, Dermatological Beauty, and Professional Products. This diverse portfolio includes brands like Kiehl’s, Lancôme, Giorgio Armani Beauty, Yves Saint Laurent Beauté, Ralph Lauren, Aesop, Maybelline New York, Essie, Kérastase, IT Cosmetics, Prada Beauty, Biotherm, Shu Uemura, Viktor&Rolf, Maison Margiela, Urban Decay, Redken, Vichy, La Roche-Posay, Diesel, Garnier, L’Oréal Paris, and more.