Greetings Christine Esposito

Online Voting: Enter Your Selections

Please mark your choices on the ballot below and click "Preview Ballot" when you are done.

NATIONAL BOARD VICE PRESIDENT-ELECT

Select 1

Serves a one-year term (2027); ascends to Vice President in 2028, then President in 2029.

Picture of KAREN CHUN

Throughout my career in the cosmetic industry, I've had the opportunity to work with customers, formulators, marketers, technical teams, and commercial leaders. These experiences have given me a deep appreciation for the important role SCC plays in our industry. SCC is not only a place where science advances, but also where relationships are built, people grow, and future leaders are developed. That's why I am running for VP-Elect. I would welcome the opportunity to support the Society and help continue the great work already underway.

The Board of Directors has established a strategic plan focused on advancing cosmetic science and strengthening the organization. I would be honored to contribute to these efforts by supporting the following priorities:

Member Engagement
I want SCC to be a place where members feel welcomed, connected, and supported throughout their careers. I would like to help continue programs that bring together two of SCC's greatest strengths: education and networking.

Chapter Value
Chapters are often where members first become involved, build relationships, and begin their leadership journey. I would like to support chapters in finding ways to engage members, attract emerging talent, and share successful ideas and best practices across the organization, particularly for smaller chapters that may face greater volunteer challenges.

Infrastructure
A strong organization depends on a strong foundation. I support clear processes, open communication, and responsible financial stewardship to help ensure SCC remains healthy and sustainable for years to come.

Outreach & Awareness
I would like SCC to continue being recognized as the trusted voice of cosmetic science while also highlighting the rewarding careers and opportunities our industry provides. By increasing awareness of our profession, we can help inspire future scientists and leaders.

I am grateful for all that SCC has provided throughout my career and would be honored to serve the membership as VP-Elect.

Biography

Karen Chun is Vice President of Sales, Cosmetic Ingredients, at Symrise and has spent more than 30 years in the cosmetic and personal care industry. After beginning her career as a cosmetic chemist, she discovered a passion for connecting science with business and transitioned into sales, where she has built a career partnering with customers and industry leaders. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of California, Irvine.

Karen's involvement with SCC has been a constant throughout her career. A dedicated volunteer, she has served the California Chapter in numerous roles, including Secretary, Treasurer, and two-time Chairperson. She also served on the National SCC Board as Area III Director and Treasurer. Karen is passionate about giving back to the organization that has played such an important role in her professional development and is committed to ensuring SCC continues to educate, inspire, and connect its members.

Picture of AMY MARSHALL

During my 30+ years with the SCC, I have witnessed our evolution from small, isolated chapters into an interconnected society that serves as a vital educational, social, and professional resource for members across the country and around the world. While we have achieved tremendous growth and success, there are still additional meaningful opportunities to further enhance the SCC experience for every member and at every stage of their careers.

SCC has both an opportunity and a responsibility to support members throughout their professional journey, from students and early-career professionals seeking mentorship, to mid-career members developing leadership skills, to experienced professionals sharing their expertise.

One of my key goals is the creation of an Emeritus Chapter within the SCC. Emeritus members represent a wealth of institutional knowledge that should be preserved and shared. Many of us have benefited from the guidance of experienced professionals who taught us not only the science and business of our industry, but also the leadership skills, and practical insights that cannot be learned in a classroom. They are the bridge for relationships and the ladder to growth and advancement. An emeritus chapter would create a formalized opportunity for mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and continued engagement. Just as a young chemist can benefit from the guidance of a seasoned professional, so too can new chapter leaders, directors, and national officers benefit from an emeritus mentor.

From increasing online learning opportunities, to encouraging cross-functional training initiatives, to expanding certificate-oriented programs, we can provide expanded educational opportunities for our membership. The SCC should embrace emerging technologies and industry trends to provide relevant, forward-thinking education that prepares our members for the future. Broadening our educational offerings will help ensure our members remain informed, competitive, and positioned for success in a rapidly changing industry.

The national organization can and should play a greater role in supporting local chapters while respecting their autonomy. As Area I Director, I developed the Area I Educational Seminar, which brought together four chapters to collaborate, network, and learn from one another. This experience of co-sponsored events strengthened multi-chapter collaboration, provided broader professional development opportunities, and fostered a stronger sense of community.

To support our continued growth, SCC must also invest in its infrastructure. Developing our digital platforms and creating digital conversation spaces for chapter leaders and members will help members stay connected. Enhancing the national calendar will allow chapters to better coordinate events to avoid scheduling conflicts that often result in reduced event participation. Strong infrastructure is essential to delivering seamless and engaging member experience.

As Head of Sales, I have worked with companies ranging from startups to some of the industry’s largest organizations. I have learned that the diversity of perspectives, backgrounds, and expertise within our membership is SCC's greatest strength, and we must continue to create opportunities to leverage it. I would be honored to serve as Vice President Elect and contribute my experience, leadership, and commitment to SCC.

Biography

Amy Marshall is a respected cosmetics industry professional with more than 34 years of experience spanning product development, sales, marketing, and business development. She began her career as a cosmetic formulating chemist before transitioning into sales, where she trained new sales representatives and developed strategies to expand markets throughout the Americas. Amy held positions at Cardre Inc., and Presperse Inc., building strong color cosmetics portfolios and helping bring innovative, trend-driven products to markets around the world. Since joining ECKART in 2007, she has served as Head of Sales, expanding her responsibilities to include marketing technical services, market development, and strategic sales leadership.

As a dedicated SCC volunteer and leader, Amy was among the first recipients of the SCC Marketing Fellow designation in 2015. She has served as National Secretary, Area I Director, and NYSCC Chapter Chair. She currently serves as Area I Directo

NATIONAL BOARD TREASURER

Select 1

Serves a two-year term (2027-2028).

Picture of CARYN WEISS

As a dedicated member of the SCC since 2011 and a Charter Member of the Michigan Chapter, I have a profound belief in our mission to advance cosmetic science. I am honored to announce my candidacy for National Treasurer.

Over the past decade, I have served in numerous leadership roles at both the local and national levels. My background includes serving as Area II Director, Chair of the National Committee on Scientific Affairs (COSA), Michigan Chapter Chair, and three-terms as Michigan Chapter Treasurer. Crucially, my two full years on the National Audit & Finance Committee (2024–2025) have equipped me with the specific national-level fiduciary oversight and governance experience required for this role.

My vision for the Treasurer position is directly aligned with the SCC’s Strategic Plan. If elected, I will focus on the following core objectives:

Enhance Member Engagement & Elevate Chapter Value. Fiscal responsibility is paramount to the member experience. I propose establishing a national "Working Capital Grant" program. This initiative will provide direct financial support to local chapters, creating a financial buffer that allows them to host high-caliber speakers and impactful events. By empowering chapters to focus their energy on delivering exceptional educational programming rather than solely on fundraising, we will drastically increase the tangible value members receive.

Modernize Infrastructure & Optimize Costs. Ensuring the long-term fiscal health of our organization requires a robust infrastructure. Building on recent successes in optimizing our long-term investment brokers, I will implement a rigorous, biennial review process for all long-standing contracts and vendor agreements. This diligent oversight will ensure operational efficiency and guarantee that the SCC is consistently securing the greatest return on investment for member dues.

Drive Outreach & Awareness. A financially healthy, well-managed SCC is a prerequisite for achieving global recognition as the authority in cosmetic science. By solidifying our fiscal wellness, we create the stability needed to invest in high-quality education and collaborative initiatives, expanding our reach and attracting new members.

In conclusion, the National Treasurer plays a key role in keeping the SCC growing and sustainable. I am eager to leverage my track record to ensure our long-term financial health and shape a thriving future for all SCC members.

Biography

Caryn Weiss is a versatile professional uniquely positioned at the intersection of science and technology. Currently serving as a Senior Data Engineer at Amway, she leverages her extensive background as an analytical chemist to drive digital transformation in laboratory environments. Over her 15-year tenure at Amway, Caryn has championed process improvements, bridging complex scientific needs with cutting-edge tech solutions like AWS and Google Cloud Platform. She holds an M.S. in Cell and Molecular Biology and a B.S. in Chemistry from Grand Valley State University, and is a published author in peer-reviewed journals.

Outside of her professional achievements, Caryn is deeply devoted to her family. She and her husband, Brian, are the proud parents of a teenage son, Benji. When she isn’t architecting data solutions or spending time with her family, Caryn enjoys indulging her love of classic cars and enjoying the great outdoors.

Picture of DOROTHY MARAPROSSIANS

On a Chapter level I have been very involved in all aspects of running the chapter and have watched my chapter grow strong over the last 25 years.  We have achieved financial stability and run many successful programs and I am proud to have been involved in them.  I have held the Chair position numerous times and realize that I can only succeed with the support of great people around me.

On National level, I have served as Area Director for Area V and found the work with the chapters in the area very rewarding. 

As a Treasurer, I will strive to work with all officers and staff to improve the wellbeing of the National SCC and will work with all chapters to help them grow and reach their full potential.

 

Biography

Dorothy has graduated from University of Toronto with Hon. BsC. in Biology (Microbiology & Genetics) and received her Certificate of Higher Education in Cosmetic Science from DeMontford University. She has since worked in both Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic industries in Marketing and Technical Sales as well as Sales and Business Management. Dorothy has been privileged to be a board member of SCC Ontario chapter for the past 25 years and has held various positions.  Dorothy has held the Chair Elect position 4 times and the Chair position 5 times, along with positions such as Sponsorship Chair,  Holiday Dinner Dance Chair and Speker Chair and others, accounting for the 25+ years of active service to the Ontario Chapter.  Dorothy has also served a 3 year term as Area Director for Area V, during which time she has worked closely with all chapters in the area to maintain/improve their financial well being and to ensure smooth operations.

Dorothy is currently holding the Business Manager, Personal Care position at Azelis Canada Inc, where she has been for the past 27 years.

NATIONAL BOARD AREA I DIRECTOR

Select 1

Serves a three-year term (2027-2029).

Picture of JOY WELSH

As a longtime SCC member and active chapter leader, I am committed to supporting the continued success and growth of the Area I chapters. If elected Area I Director, my primary goal will be to strengthen communication, collaboration, and engagement across Connecticut, Long Island, New England, and New York.

I believe that each chapter brings unique strengths, innovative ideas, and valuable experiences that can benefit the entire region. I will work to foster stronger connections among chapter leaders through regular communication, chapter visits, and the sharing of best practices. By creating opportunities for collaboration, we can enhance member experiences, support volunteer leaders, and build a stronger SCC community.

Another key objective will be to promote membership and professional development at all career stages. I am passionate about supporting students, early-career professionals, and future industry leaders by encouraging participation in SCC programs, networking opportunities, and educational events. Our Society's greatest strength is its members, and investing in their growth is essential to our future success.

I also recognize the importance of listening. I will actively seek feedback from chapter leaders and members to better understand their needs, challenges, and opportunities. By serving as a bridge between the chapters and the National Board, I will advocate for initiatives that support member value and chapter success.

Throughout my career, the SCC has provided me with invaluable education, mentorship, friendships, and professional opportunities. As Area I Director, I would be honored to give back to the organization that has given so much to me. My commitment is to be an accessible, collaborative, and engaged leader who works to strengthen our chapters, support our volunteers, and help ensure a vibrant future for the Society of Cosmetic Chemists.

Biography

Joy Welsh is a cosmetic chemist and business development professional with more than 30 years of experience in the personal care industry. She began her career at Crabtree & Evelyn and went on to hold leadership positions at Commonwealth Soap & Toiletries, Living Proof, and Pure Haven, LLC. Today, she serves as Business Development Manager at Azelis Personal Care US, supporting customers with innovative ingredient technologies and promoting the BASF Beauty Care Solutions portfolio.  An active member of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, Joy has served as Area I Director and held several leadership roles within the New England Chapter, including Chair, Chair-Elect, and Secretary. She remains dedicated to advancing cosmetic science through education, mentorship, and industry collaboration.

Picture of MOHAMED ABDULLA

For more than 16 years, I have had the privilege of serving the cosmetics industry while building meaningful professional relationships across the country. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to advancing our industry through leadership, volunteerism, and service. My experience as an elected board member and volunteer leader within the Society of Cosmetic Chemists has reinforced my belief that our greatest strength lies in our members and the connections we build together.

I am honored to be considered for the position of Area I Director. This opportunity would allow me to continue serving our members while helping strengthen collaboration among the New York, Long Island, Connecticut, and New England Chapters. By sharing ideas, resources, and best practices, we can create greater value for every member while supporting the continued growth of each chapter.

If elected, I will focus on five strategic priorities:

Member Engagement
I will focus on re-engaging companies where membership participation has declined while demonstrating the value SCC delivers through technical education, professional development, networking opportunities, leadership development, and community involvement. Strengthening these relationships will help improve member retention while attracting the next generation of professionals.

Regional Collaboration
Area I is home to four exceptional chapters, each with unique strengths and experiences. I will actively promote greater collaboration through joint educational programs, shared best practices, coordinated networking events, student outreach initiatives, and sponsor engagement. Working together will help maximize resources, strengthen relationships, and enhance the member experience.

Chapter Growth & Value
Each chapter plays a vital role in serving its local membership. I will work closely with Area I chapter leadership to identify opportunities for growth, strengthen volunteer engagement, and attract new members. Strong local chapters are essential to delivering value and ensuring the long-term success of SCC.

Outreach & Industry Awareness
As our industry continues to evolve through scientific innovation, artificial intelligence, sustainability initiatives, and changing regulatory requirements, SCC must continue expanding its influence. Increasing awareness of SCC's mission and strengthening engagement with students, universities, manufacturers, suppliers, and industry partners will help develop the next generation of cosmetic scientists and professionals.

Operational Excellence
Drawing upon my experience as Executive Treasurer and Board Member of the New York Chapter, I will work closely with SCC leadership to promote modern tools, efficient processes, improved financial visibility, and operational best practices that help chapters operate more effectively and better serve their members.

Throughout my career, I have believed that lasting progress is achieved through collaboration, service, and a willingness to bring people together around a common purpose. Area I has an incredible opportunity to strengthen the connections among its four chapters while preserving the unique identity of each one. By working together, we can create new opportunities for our members, increase the value of SCC membership, and ensure our Society continues to thrive for future generations.

It would be an honor to serve as your Area I Director. Thank you for your consideration and support.

Biography

I have been part of the cosmetics industry since 2008. I began my career as a Research Chemist, developing innovative raw materials before transitioning into commercial leadership, where I help customers bring new products and technologies to market.

Today, I serve as an Account Manager II at Univar Solutions, partnering with manufacturers to deliver ingredient solutions that support growth and innovation in the beauty and personal care industry.

I have also served as dedicated volunteer with the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC), having served the New York Chapter as House Chair, Membership Chair, and Executive Treasurer. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to member engagement, volunteer leadership, and advancing our industry.

I live in New Jersey with my wife, Eftekar, and our two children, Omar (8) and Salem (6). In my free time, I enjoy golf, traveling, watching sports, and exploring new cuisines.

New York - Chair-Elect

Select 1
Picture of RACHEL ROBERTSON JOHNSON

Positioning NYSCC for Excellence & Collaboration

As cosmetic chemists, our collective strength lies in continuous discovery, interdisciplinary growth, and the shared pursuit of excellence. As your Chair-Elect, my primary objective is to reinforce NYSCC’s position as the premier hub for professional development, scientific innovation, and industry collaboration. My goal is to foster an ecosystem where science thrives, innovation accelerates, and our chapter serves as an indispensable pillar of professional support.

True technical advancement requires an interconnected vision. Having actively engaged with the Intermountain West, New England, Southwest, and Mid-Atlantic Chapters of the SCC, I have witnessed firsthand the power of cross-regional exchange and a unified industry vision. As Chair-Elect, I will leverage these national relationships to establish strong collaborations that expand our chapter's reach. While aligning NYSCC with academic hubs, regulatory bodies, and pioneering industry networks.

As your Chair-Elect, my strategic framework focuses on delivering targeted value across our community while acting as a steward of the chapter’s core initiatives in the following ways:

●  Cultivating Tomorrow’s Talent: Establishing structured mentorship pipelines and hands-on pathways that empower emerging scientists and students.

●  Empowering Independent Innovators: Expanding access to critical technical resources, regulatory guidance, and supply-chain networks so boutique founders and agile R&D labs can seamlessly scale.

●  Elevating Scientific & Operational Excellence: Expanding hybrid content access, cross-functional educational tracks, and high-level executive roundtables

Combining my executive leadership with a national network, I am committed to advancing NYSCC’s legacy by upholding the interests of all members and driving measurable merit for our community. Together, we will build a stronger, more interconnected future for cosmetic science.

I humbly ask for your vote for NYSCC Chair-Elect.

Biography

Rachel Robertson Johnson is the Chief Cosmetic Chemist and Founder of The Charismatic Chemist. With over a decade of R&D expertise spanning Color Cosmetics, OTC, and clean formulations, she propels global beauty brands through technical innovation. Recognized as a 2025 CEW Innovator Honoree in Formulation and a Goldman Sachs Black in Business alumna, Rachel is a dedicated STEM advocate and industry leader. As a candidate for NYSCC Chair-Elect, she brings deep technical mastery, purpose-driven leadership, and a steadfast commitment to advancing and empowering the cosmetic science community.

Picture of YUN SHAO

The New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists has earned its reputation as one of the most respected and vibrant professional organizations in the cosmetic industry. My priorities as Chair are:

Preserve Excellence. Continue delivering the high-quality educational programs, networking opportunities, and industry events that have made NYSCC the premier SCC chapter. Building on this strong foundation, I will work closely with our dedicated advisors, Board members, committee chairs, and volunteers to strengthen our successful initiatives while ensuring NYSCC continues to evolve and thrive.

Invest in the Next Generation. I strongly support the NYSCC Internship Program led by Dr. Amber Evans. This program provides invaluable opportunities for students and early-career scientists to gain industry experience, develop professional networks, and launch successful careers. Expanding this initiative will help cultivate future cosmetic scientists and ensure a strong pipeline of talent for both NYSCC and the beauty industry.

Advance Diversity & Inclusion. Diversity strengthens innovation. While continuing to foster an inclusive environment for all, I would like to expand our outreach to attract talented individuals from all backgrounds—including more male students—to explore careers in cosmetic science. A more gender-balanced workforce will help the cosmetic science community better understand and serve the evolving needs of consumers, including the rapidly growing men's grooming market and the increasing demand for products that reflect today's more gender-fluid and inclusive approach to beauty and personal care.

Strengthen Global Collaboration. Cosmetic innovation is increasingly global. I will promote stronger collaborations with international professional associations, academic institutions, and industry partners, with particular emphasis on Asia. By fostering scientific exchange and learning from advances in K-Beauty, J-Beauty, and Botanical Delivery Technology outside the USA, NYSCC can provide members with broader scientific perspectives while strengthening its position as a global leader in cosmetic science.

Together, we will build on NYSCC's strong foundation while preparing our Society for the next generation of cosmetic science.

Biography

Dr. Yun Shao joined Kobo Products Inc. in 1996 and currently serves as Senior Vice President of Research & Development. With more than 30 years of experience in the cosmetics industry, he is well recognized for his expertise in inorganic UV filters, pigment surface treatment, dispersion technology, color cosmetics, and global cosmetic ingredient regulations.

Dr. Shao is an active speaker at scientific conferences, including the IFSCC Congress, the SCC Annual Scientific Meeting, the FLSCC Sunscreen Symposium, and meetings hosted by local SCC chapters. He holds nine patents and has co-authored several book chapters in cosmetic science and related technologies.

He earned a Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a B.S. in Applied Chemistry from the University of Science and Technology of China.

A member of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists since 1996, Dr. Shao currently serves on the New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists (NYSCC) Scientific Committee and served as its Chair from 2024 to 2025. He is also a founding Board member of the Chinese American Cosmetic Professional Association (CACPA).