New female-founded & owned beauty brand debuts exclusively at Walmart & Pretty-SmartCosmetics.com, re-imagining luxury formulas without the makeup markup

RENO, Nev., June 10, 2024 -- Today, Pretty Smart, a new female-founded beauty brand, marks its official debut and launches exclusively at Walmart with a line of quality beauty products inspired by your favorite luxury brands without the makeup markup. Now available in 2,800 Walmart locations, Walmart.com, and Pretty-SmartCosmetics.com, Pretty Smart breaks through the noise and reasserts that makeup can be fun, functional, and affordable.

Pretty Smart breaks down the barriers of traditional luxury makeup to make quality products affordable to beauty customers. The brand is launching a full range of cosmetics, including an inclusive shade range of foundations and concealers at an accessible price point - with all products priced at $10 or less. The brand offers a range of 27 products with more than 145 shade variations for your eyes, lips, cheeks, and complexion inspired by luxury cosmetics, so you can try every trending, must-have makeup look at a fraction of the price. Pretty Smart's products are vegan, made with well-loved ingredients, like coconut alkanes, organic jojoba seed oil, and carnauba wax, and without certain ingredients, like talc, parabens, phthalates, PTFEs, SLS, and SLES. Pretty Smart also never tests its formulas on animals. All of Pretty Smart's products are in compliance with Walmart's Clean Beauty Program.

"I couldn't imagine a better retail partner than Walmart to bring my dream of a truly luxurious, yet affordable, product line to reality," said Marissa Shipman, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Pretty Smart. "As someone who's spent more than 20 years in the beauty industry, I know firsthand that a product's final price to the consumer is not only influenced by ingredients and their quality but also influenced by the touchpoints in its journey from concept to development to manufacturing before finally landing on store shelves. That didn't sit right with me. Pretty Smart was born from a desire to change that. We develop, manufacture, and distribute ourselves, which is what has made our affordable formulations possible. It's incredible to launch Pretty Smart finally and I am so excited for Walmart customers to be able to try the line themselves."

Tipsy Owl Illuminating Face Drops: Available in three complexion-boosting shades: Bronze, Rose, and gold. Tipsy Owl Drops contains organic jojoba seed oil with skin-softening properties. Its blendable and buildable formula adds the perfect glow to your complexion.

Diffusing Face Primer: This water-based primer gives you that blurred look effect and it contains glycerin with skin-conditioning properties. Say goodbye to the days of sticky primers; this lovingly crafted formula leaves your skin feeling incredibly soft and perfectly prepped for makeup that lasts.

I'm Dreaming Liquid Blush: Effortlessly light yet boldly pigmented, this dreamy blush contains coconut alkanes with skin-softening properties. The sleek doe-foot applicator can slide from an understated glow to a statement blush.

Pretty Smart Drama Black Mascara: Prepare for eye-catching lashes from each swipe of the soft-textured formula, courtesy of Pretty Smart's formula, which contains carnauba wax with long-wearing properties and the Xtra-Xtra Lush Brush that thickens each lash, making them the star of the show.

You've Got Brow Gel: Flaunt your arches with You've Got Brow Gel's easy application and perfect tint (or clear). It is formulated with Vitamin B5, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

"We are thrilled to welcome Pretty Smart to Walmart and expand our beauty assortment even further," said Creighton Kiper, Vice President of Merchandising, Beauty at Walmart U.S. "Helping our customers discover new brands that will both inspire and delight them is a priority for Walmart Beauty. Pretty Smart embodies a similar goal and is the perfect addition to our shelves and Walmart.com. While these accessibly priced yet still luxurious beauty products will appeal to all Walmart beauty shoppers, we're especially excited about the opportunity to reach Gen Z with this lineup."

Available on Walmart.com, in Walmart stores, and at Pretty-SmartCosmetics.com.

For more information, please visit pretty-smartcosmetics.com.

NEW YORK, June 17, 2024  -- Niles + Chaz is launching a vegan, organic, cruelty-free, nut-free, and veggie- and fruit- packed haircare line for children of mixed heritage. Featuring four SKUs filled with over 90% naturally derived ingredients: Tangles Shmangles (Curl Detangler & Enhancer), What The Frizz! (Styling Gel Cream), Curl Raiser (Revival Spray), and Scalp Enchanter (Pre- Shampoo Treatment). Founded by parents, actor Mike Colter and his wife Iva, a former major Hollywood studio senior executive, for their multiracial and multicultural children. Named after their daughters, who are also Co-Founders and active participants in the brand, Niles + Chaz offers hair care products that celebrate the beauty of mixed-textured hair and multi-ethnic heritage, promote children's self-confidence and inclusivity, and strive for endless recyclability and sustainability.

Inspired by the founders' journey as parents seeking clean and eeffective hair care solutions for their children's mixed-texture hair, Niles + Chaz was created to empower young girls and boys to embrace their unique curls and be proud of their diverse cultural heritage. The slogan, "Hair I Am!" emphasizes the importance of instilling confidence, independence, and empowerment in children at a young age. Niles + Chaz developed a range of hair styling products for kids and with kids that promote self-love and encourage diversity in the beauty industry. Formulated with excitement and child-like playfulness, Niles + Chaz's core collection embodies inclusivity and clean beauty, supporting parents in managing their kids' hair, which may differ from their own. This four-product toolkit helps parents teach their children how to care for and love their beautiful waves, curls, and coils, embrace their authentic selves, and own the world.

Tangles Shmagnles^TM is a curl detangler made with flaxseed oil, marshmallow extract, watermelon, banana, and okra. This vitamin-infused formula keeps hair hydrated, smooth, and shiny and banishes frizz.

Curl Raiser^TM is the perfect solution for achieving frizz-free and beautiful curls made with natural plant extracts, vitamins, enriching butter oils, and strengthening proteins to revive curls with moisture and curl-popping powers. Made with marshmallow, prickly pear, and acai to keep curls perfectly styled and strong.

What the Frizz!^TM is a styling gel cream created to define curls, add shine, and lock in moisture to protect curls and minimize frizz. It is fueled with jojoba extract, shea butter, and marshmallow to hydrate, strengthen, and promote growth.

Scalp Enhancer^TM is a pre-shampoo treatment that is also great for post-braids, twists, or locs scalp cleanup. It is crafted with organic plant powers and vitamins like murumuru, pumpkin, mango, and charcoal. It nurtures hair for strength and vitality and prevents scalp damage.

Niles + Chaz is available now at nilesandchaz.com. 

For more information, please contact: nilesandchaz@michelemariepr.com

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Guy Langer, a cherished and long-time member of the BIW community.

Guy founded Qumulus Group in 2008 and dedicated his career to the Personal Care and Nutritional Products industries. As President of Qumulus, he represented several prestigious manufacturers of natural, plant-based ingredients, including Inducherm (Switzerland), GreenTech (France), Indena (Italy), Custom Ingredients (U.S.), American Natural Products (U.S.), and Barnet (U.S.).

Before founding Qumulus Group, Guy spent 20 years with DDChemco, a leading distributor of personal care ingredients in the Western United States, where he played a key role in building the company. He also worked with Integrated Health, marketing unique amino acid formulas for the medical industry.

Guy was a pillar in the beauty industry community. As a founding member of Beauty Industry West (BIW) in 1991, he held numerous positions, including President in 2014 and Vice President in 2013. He served as Education Chair and Sponsorship Chair for many years. Within the Society of Cosmetic Chemists-California Chapter (SCC), Guy's leadership was exemplary. He served as Chairman, Scientific Seminar Chair, Awards Chair, Dinner Dance Co-Chair, and Education Chair for 22 years. His exceptional contributions were recognized with the SCC Chapter Merit Award, which he received twice—an unprecedented honor.

Guy's immense contributions to our industry and to BIW and SCC are immeasurable. His boundless energy, passion, and financial support have left an indelible mark on our history. Beyond his professional achievements, Guy was a devoted supporter of Para Los Ninos, an organization that provides education and resources to children in the LA Barrio. Under his influence, Para Los Ninos became BIW's annual charity partner for several years.

Guy is survived by his beloved wife, Kendra.

To share your reflections and memories of Guy, please click the “Add comment” link below.

The beauty industry mourns the loss of industry icon Judy Zegarelli, known for her pioneering contributions that have transformed the world of cosmetics. With a career spanning over four decades, she has left an indelible mark through her innovative products, vibrant spirit, and incredible vision. Her legacy continues to ins pire and shape the future of cosmetics. She passed away on May 17, 2024, from pancreatic cancer.

In 1982 Judy launched Chameleon, a revolutionary trend-setting lipstick that changes color according to the pH balance in one’s skin tone. Which became the industry innovation that set the stage for her award winning product O Glow launch by SmashBox in 2002, and many other color changing products. The success of Chameleon led to the establishment of her cosmetic manufacturing company, Cosmetic Group USA.

Judy’s unwavering passion for beauty and exceptional talent for product innovation fueled the growth and expansion of her manufacturing business. Her collaboration with makeup artist and brand founder Victoria Jackson, led to the production of highly successful infomercials, and is a testament to her pioneering spirit and ability to forge impactful relationships.

Under Judy’s leadership and alongside her partner, Al Booth, Cosmetic Group USA grew and still exists today as an industry leader in skincare and color cosmetics. Her groundbreaking work includes the development of many of today’s most beloved beauty products and brands, integral to the daily routines of millions worldwide.

Beyond her product innovations, Judy Zegarelli was a staunch advocate for empowerment through beauty. She tirelessly worked to break down barriers and serve as a guiding force for those around her. Her mentorship has impacted the careers of makeup artists and beauty professionals alike. Judy was a supportive founding member of Beauty Industry West, the west coast based beauty trade organization.

Judy Zegarelli approached life with passion and impeccable style, and those who knew her loved her. She is survived by her daughter, Dayna, who carries forward her mother’s legacy. Judy Zegarelli's influence on the world of beauty will live on. While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the incredible life she led and the lasting impact she made. Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations. In the product innovation words of Judy Zegarelli “why hasn’t anyone ever……….?”

LOS ANGELES, May 21, 2024 -- IPSY, the world's largest beauty membership, has made a significant stride today with the appointment of Francine Li as its new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). In her new role, reporting to CEO Scott Gilbertson, Li will spearhead marketing and communications, ensuring a seamless member experience to further IPSY's mission of inspiring everyone to express their unique beauty. Her leadership will be instrumental in reinvigorating the IPSY brand to engage the current community and reach the next generation of beauty fans. Francine's deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion will also drive IPSY's impact efforts.

"Francine is a visionary talent. Her impressive success building resonant brands with next-generation customers will be invaluable to IPSY's growth trajectory and market leadership," said Chief Executive Officer Scott Gilbertson. As a brand and customer-led company, this is a critical role. We are confident that Francine's leadership will elevate and extend IPSY's indelible commitment to serving the needs of our members."

Li most recently served as Global Head of Marketing at Riot Games, where she oversaw culture-shaping games, including League of Legends and VALORANT. The company was named one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Brands during her tenure. Similarly, she led the Global Brand Strategy at Netflix during a period of hypergrowth. Previously, at preeminent creative agencies, she led creative campaigns for iconic brands, including Procter & Gamble, ESPN, and Budweiser. Li has been recognized as a 2023 Forbes Entrepreneurial CMO and has won over 50 global awards, including Cannes Lions, Clios, One Show Pencils, Effies, and an Emmy. Additionally, she has held the esteemed role of Jury President for both the Cannes Lions and the One Show.

"I am thrilled to be joining the IPSY team! It is a pivotal and exciting moment for the company as we embark on our next stage of growth. I look forward to applying my passions for creativity and innovation to a brand that epitomizes empowerment and self-expression. As someone who grew up not seeing myself represented in the beauty industry, IPSY's mission of redefining beauty in a way that celebrates diversity and authenticity deeply resonates with me." shared Francine Li.

PARIS, May 21, 2024 -- Clarins, the family-owned global cosmetics Group established in Paris in 1954, has continuously championed entrepreneurial spirit and innovation throughout its 70-year history. Dedicated to pioneering responsible beauty, Clarins is committed to providing exceptional customer service, attentively addressing and prioritizing its customers' needs with innovative solutions.

To offer the best service to online customers, Clarins jointly leverages human expertise and technology through a comprehensive range of services, including live consultations, beauty classrooms, live streaming, and best-in-class customer care. It also provides a conversational bot as an alternative contact option. The bot enables customers to receive immediate responses to their urgent inquiries when the customer-care department is closed (e.g., late evening or nighttime). It also helps optimize the availability of customer care agents during the daytime, allowing them to respond swiftly to more complex inquiries that a conversational bot cannot handle. 

A milestone in top-tier customer care service 

Clarins offers a cutting-edge customer-care bot, CLARA, powered by Microsoft secure and Enterprise-grade Azure OpenAI Service, a true milestone in the prestige beauty industry. Unlike more traditional bots, this bot integrates natural language interactions, ensuring a much better understanding and resolution of customer requests. 

The bot is now live on the Clarins USA website, clarinsusa.com. It leverages Clarins' proprietary data, including content from the Clarins website, Clarins customer care pre-defined questions & answers, and Clarin's beauty coaches product training content. 

Clarins is currently conducting tests on several variants of the bot to assess and optimize the overall customer experience before implementing CLARA globally. 

Jessica Hawk, Corporate Vice President, Data, AI, and Digital Apps at Microsoft: "Clarins is a leader in the beauty industry, and we're excited they are using Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to help reimagine what's possible with their customer care bot. This approach reflects Clarins' deep commitment to offering its customers an innovative, high-quality experience."

Corine de Bilbao, President of Microsoft France: "I'm proud of this excellent collaboration between Clarins, a long-standing French customer, and our teams. This French success story is a perfect illustration of Clarins' determination to remain at the forefront of innovation in the prestige beauty sector by relying on our cutting-edge technological solutions." 

Clarins CEO Jonathan Zrihen said, "We are proud to introduce CLARA, a pioneering customer care bot powered by the cutting-edge generative AI capabilities of Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service. This is a significant milestone for Clarins as we continue to set the standard in delivering exceptional service in the prestige beauty industry. CLARA is designed not just to meet but exceed the sophisticated expectations of our customers by providing tailored, instantaneous responses at any time. This innovation highlights our commitment to blending human expertise with state-of-the-art technology to enhance the beauty experience for every Clarins customer we serve."

Clarins Chief Digital & IT Officer Laurent Malaveillesaid said, "Having outstanding customer satisfaction has always been a priority for Clarins. While we highly value human interactions with customers, we have naturally seized the opportunity offered by generative AI to go one step further and improve the quality of service of our customer care".

Los Angeles, CA - May 21, 2024 - Beauty Industry West (BIW) proudly announces the launch of the Emerge Beauty Awards, a prestigious program dedicated to recognizing and celebrating emerging beauty brands and their innovative products. This inaugural event aims to shed light on new brands' ingenuity and creativity and give them the visibility and recognition they deserve within their respective beauty spaces.

The Emerge Beauty Awards honor excellence and innovation, inspiring the next generation of beauty enthusiasts and industry leaders. By spotlighting groundbreaking products and forward-thinking brands, BIW is committed to fostering a community where innovation thrives and new talent is celebrated.

"We are thrilled to introduce the Emerge Beauty Awards," said Dustin Cash, President at Beauty Industry West. "This event is a testament to the vibrant and dynamic nature of the beauty industry. We believe in the power of new ideas and are excited to provide a platform for emerging brands to shine."

The awards ceremony will feature categories across various beauty segments, ensuring a comprehensive showcase of the industry's best and brightest. Winners will be selected by a panel of esteemed judges, including industry experts, beauty influencers, and veteran professionals.

Join us in celebrating the trailblazers of tomorrow's beauty industry at the Emerge Beauty Awards. For more information about the event, including how to participate and attend, please visit beautyindustrywest.org/Emerge.

Beekman 1802, Kindness.org & Traackr uncover the scientific link between Mental Health and Kindness on Digital Platforms

SHARON SPRINGS, N.Y. -- Gen Z is looking at influencers' values as much as they are looking at their product recommendations; in fact, over 60% feel that influencers' posts have some impact on the decisions made in their everyday lives. Influencers' values, including kindness, are essential; 61% said they would stop following an influencer if they said or did something that conflicted with their values. 

Pierre-Loïc Assayag, Co-founder & CEO of Traackr says, "As a longstanding leader in the influencer marketing space, we've watched the industry grow rapidly in size and impact. However, there have often been limited insights on how this industry can affect creator and consumer mental health and well-being. This is why we're excited to share this first-of-its-kind report on kindness in the creator space, alongside our partners Beekman 1802 and kindness.org."

In collaboration with Beekman 1802, the leading goat milk skincare brand rooted in Kindness, and Traackr, an influencer marketing platform to access creator insights, kindness.org, a nonprofit that educates and inspires people to choose kindness, executed a groundbreaking study on the role kindness plays in the social sphere among beauty influencers, demonstrating how they contribute to and take on the responsibility of the mental health of their followers. 

According to Dr. Brent Ridge, Co-founder & Chief Kindness Officer of Beekman 1802, "Social media is a dominant part of our daily lives. As a company that believes Kindness is a preventative health measure, we want to ensure that the content we put out and promote on social platforms contributes positively to the well-being of all those who may see it."

The findings reveal that beauty influencers see that the beauty industry's social content is largely unfriendly to mental health. However, they recognize that their content does influence the mental health of their followers, and kinder influencers are more successful in terms of having more followers. 

In addition, the study measured the connection between beauty influencers, social media, and kindness, revealing that influencers who exhibit kindness by scoring higher in the personality trait of agreeableness had a higher number of followers across social media channels.

Results show: 

Only 37% of beauty influencers felt that social content in the beauty industry overall was positively impacting the mental health of young people.
However, 78% of beauty influencers recognize that their content influences the mental health of their followers. 

Influencers with a more agreeable personality were found to correlate with higher follower/subscriber count. Agreeable people are more kind, compassionate, respectful, compromising, cooperative, and trusting of others. 

Jaclyn Lindsey, Co-founder & CEO of kindness.org, says, "We at kindness.org are focused on answering meaningful questions about kindness and its role in our everyday lives to create measurable change toward a kinder world. By looking at the relationship kindness and influencers have on content and well-being, we are starting an important conversation that sets the stage for the future of influencers and the relationship with their followers."

As the leader in the science of Kindness, Beekman 1802 will leverage this study to further make a positive impact in the social sphere within the beauty industry. The research findings will be leveraged to proactively recruit brand ambassadors with higher kindness scores into their community, Kindness Krew. 

"I feel that the younger generation already has a hard time loving themselves so when they see content with filters, or "perfect beauty" it can negatively impact their mental health," says Jessica Garcia of @beauty.is.everyone, New Member of Beekman 1802's Kindness Krew. 

LARGO, Fla. -- ONOXA, a leading name in private label skincare, proudly announces the launch of its latest collection tailored specifically for men. The new line features a range of meticulously crafted products designed to elevate every man's skincare routine to new heights of sophistication and efficacy.

Men's Mango and Shea Beard Butter

The cornerstone of this remarkable release is the MEN'S MANGO AND SHEA BEARD BUTTER. This luxurious blend, presented in a sleek clear white container, combines the nourishing properties of mango and shea butter to tame unruly facial hair and promote healthy, manageable beards. Crafted with precision and care, this beard butter promises to become an indispensable asset in every man's grooming arsenal.

Men's Argan and Castor Soothing Beard Oil

Complementing the beard butter is the MEN'S ARGAN AND CASTOR SOOTHING BEARD OIL, presented in an elegant amber black bottle alongside a transparent white counterpart. Infused with the rejuvenating essence of argan and castor oil, this soothing beard oil offers a revitalizing experience, ensuring a soft, lustrous beard that commands attention. 

Men's Sage and Shea Soothing Cleanser

ONOXA's commitment to holistic skincare extends beyond facial hair care with the introduction of the MEN'S SAGE AND SHEA SOOTHING CLEANSER. Available in clear white and amber black variations, this gentle cleanser harnesses the power of sage and shea to purify and refresh the skin, leaving it feeling invigorated and revitalized.

Men's Vitamin C Hydrating Moisturizer

Rounding out the collection is the MEN'S
VITAMIN C HYDRATING MOISTURIZER. Presented in a sleek clear white container, this advanced moisturizer is enriched with potent vitamin C to nourish and hydrate the skin, promoting a youthful, radiant complexion. 

ONOXA's dedication to innovation and quality shines through in these exceptional men's skincare products, providing aspiring beauty entrepreneurs with unparalleled opportunities to thrive in the competitive market. These new offerings are available as individual samples and included in the ONOXA Men's Sample Kit. 

"We are thrilled to introduce our latest range of men's skincare essentials," said Vice President of Business Development Mary Shively. "With a meticulous blend of natural ingredients and cutting-edge formulations, our clean products are poised to redefine the standards of men's skincare, offering unparalleled performance." 

Unlock The Path to Success with ONOXA 

Tailored beauty solutions for influencers, aestheticians, salons, spas, dermatologists, and expanding brands. 

Beauty Influencers: Increase engagement among followers with one's skincare brand, unlocking additional revenue streams. Our fulfillment division offers complete order processing, so you only need to market your skincare brand. 

Licensed Aestheticians: Elevate income by crafting and selling a skincare line tailored for clients. 

Salons and Spas: Expand offerings seamlessly, eliminating the burden of excessive overhead costs. 

Dermatologists: Enhance your brand with seamlessly integrated new products, elevating an existing line. 

Existing Brands Seeking Expansion: Expand your product range with ONOXA's trademarked ingredients targeting consumer needs. 

Effortless Beauty Branding with ONOXA 

Embark on a seamless journey to build or expand a beauty brand with ONOXA. Start with a low-cost sample kit featuring full-size, high-quality products and premium packaging options. Test the products, then begin the launch process of your skincare brand by collaborating with ONOXA's expert designers for complimentary label creation. Rapid brand creation with low minimum orders, free label design and printing, and a 14-business-day turnaround time. 

Backed by an in-house US-based Research & Development Lab and Quality Assurance Lab, ONOXA offers clean formulas crafted by expert chemists in its US-based manufacturing facility in Largo, FL. Benefit from UL Certified, ISO 22716:2007 Certified, and cGMP Certified manufacturing, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety. Trust in the unwavering commitment to excellence, transparency, and USA-based manufacturing from ONOXA for unparalleled beauty solutions. 

Join ONOXA Today to Build Your Beauty Brand

Discover the endless possibilities and kickstart your beauty journey today with ONOXA. Explore ONOXA's range of premium products, seamless processes, and unparalleled support designed to make one's brand stand out in the competitive market. Whether one is just starting out or looking to expand, ONOXA is here to help every step of the way. Learn more at www.onoxa.com and connect with ONOXA socially at @onoxa_com.

WASHINGTON, April 16, 2024-- Paralyzed Veterans of America concluded its Igniting Change Gala on Friday evening at MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. The flagship event celebrated Women veterans, influencers, and innovators who strive to create an inclusive world in the areas of accessibility, employment, and medical care.

The black-tie affair featured entertainment by award-winning country music artist Martina McBride and brought together industry, government, and public sector guests to honor those leading the fight for disability civil rights. Sports broadcasting icon Hannah Storm served as event emcee, with former NASA Astronaut Wendy Lawrence as keynote speaker. Adding to the excitement of the evening was country music artist/U.S. Army Veteran Jenny Grace, who performed at a pre-Gala reception.

Countless other special guest speakers were also onsite, including sports industry pioneer, actress, and author Bonnie- Jill Laflin; Executive Vice President of Penske Walt Czarnecki; and Deputy Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration Dilawar Syed.

"Despite being the fastest-growing U.S. Veteran population, women Veterans often grapple with feeling forgotten and overlooked when seeking support for their unmet needs," said Robert Thomas, PVA National President. "PVA not only recognizes this disparity but is committed to empowering and helping women Veterans navigate their unique challenges and flourish in their everyday lives. PVA's Igniting Change Gala was created to do just that."

The evening's honorees included Senator Elizabeth Dole, who was presented with the prestigious 2024 Gordon H. Mansfield Congressional Leadership Award. Senator Dole was selected for her extensive history of advocacy and support for the healthcare of Veterans and their caregivers. Her dedication to the well-being of the nation's heroes and their families has left an indelible mark on the community, embodying the spirit of the Mansfield Award.

The Target Corporation received PVA's 2024 Inclusivity Award. The award was bestowed to Target for their commitment to creating a welcoming culture for all guests and its commitment to inclusivity. The retailer supports diverse populations in a number of ways, including business councils for employees and product offerings for Veterans and other people with disabilities.

"Target is committed to building a sense of belonging for all our team members and guests -- including our Veterans, women and people with disabilities," said Justin Burns, Senior Vice President of Assets Protection and Executive Sponsor of the Military Business Council for the Target Corporation. "Collectively, we're inspired by incredible organizations like PVA, which share so many fundamental values with Target. We are grateful to have you beside us as we work to make sure belonging is felt by all."

Similarly, PVA presented its 2024 Innovation Award to L'Oréal USA - the largest subsidiary of the L'Oréal Groupe. A leader, not only in beauty, L'Oréal's engineers have kick-started a revolution in technology aimed at helping many with limited fine motor skills get back their independence. Further driving greater inclusion in the beauty industry, L'Oréal USA actively supports the veteran community through various community initiatives led by VALOR, its employee-led resource group dedicated to veterans.

"The positive impact to the disability and Veteran community by all of the PVA strategies is far and wide, and we are very humbled to be a part of this memorable night and a member of the PVA honorees for 2024," said Nicholas K. ladevaio, Vice President of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at L'Oréal USA. "This award is a result of the work of so many amazing people in L'Oréal – we do the work together. And this night is about all of us together, to honor our amazing women veterans, who continue to serve, continue to make us proud and continue to humble us with your dedication and commitment to the veteran and disability community.

The night's fourth and final award, the 2024 PVA Veterans Career Program Award, was bestowed upon Windstream. A communications and software company, Windstream exemplifies the spirit of workplace equity, which has been at the heart of PVA's mission since it launched its Veterans Career Program in 2007. An invaluable PVA partner, Windstream actively promotes a work environment where Veterans thrive and contribute their unique skills and experiences. From placing PVA clients in positions throughout their company to integrating disabled Veterans into their Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts, Windstream has created a welcoming environment for all veterans.

"Windstream's commitment to hiring and retaining Veterans is not only a market of respect and gratitude for their service, but also a recognition that they bring unparalleled skills and values to the workforce," said Mary Michaels, Chief Human Resources Officer for Windstream. "This award is a reminder of the importance of creating a workplace that values diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility and I hope it will serve as a catalyst for us all to continue working together towards a future where every individual, regardless of their abilities, can achieve their full potential."

The Igniting Change Gala was made possible by generous sponsors and supporters, including The Jeffrey Carlton Charitable Foundation, Penske Automotive Group, Penske Truck Leasing, and TriWest Healthcare Alliance. Photos from the evening are available upon request. For more information, please contact Oname Thompson at OThompson@PVA.org.

About Paralyzed Veterans of America

Paralyzed Veterans of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or diseases. The organization ensures veterans receive the benefits earned through service to our nation; monitors their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funds research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis. As a life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people with disabilities, PVA also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, and provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation. With more than 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans of America serves veterans, their families, and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Learn more at PVA.org.