In 1970, Joel Gerson began teaching esthetic skin care and facial treatments in New York City. He soon discovered the lack of educational materials available for the training of estheticians. He was unable to find a practical "how to" textbook, or a comprehensive course outline, that was both easy to understand, and thorough in its contents. So, in 1977 he decided to write the textbook that would provide the curriculum materials, including step-by-step illustrations needed by teachers and students. The most important undertaking of his professional career, was writing the Standard Textbook for Professional Estheticians. Creation of this textbook also paved the way for state regulatory boards and regulation of estheticians through licensure, and subsequently, development of the NCEA Certified credential.
In the 1999 revised edition, NCEA's executive director, Susanne Warfield became the first co-author of two chapters: "Sterilization, Disinfection and Safety in the Salon," and "Estheticians Working with Physicians." Since then, many other contributors have played an important role in updating this textbook, known today as the Standard Esthetics Fundamentals.
In honor of Mr. Gerson's contribution to education of the esthetic professional, NCEA is pleased to announce the creation of the "Gerson Award for Excellence in Esthetic Education."
General information:
- Applicants must be currently employed as an esthetics teacher and demonstrate excellence in providing esthetic education.
- All applications must be received no later than August 31st, 2013.
- The winner will be chosen by a NCEA Committee and awarded at the National Esthetic Teacher Training (NETT) being held Pre-Congress of the International Congress of Esthetics & Spa in Philadelphia, PA, Saturday, October 26th, 2013 by Mr. Joel Gerson himself.
- Interested applicants can download application here.
