On Wednesday, the 2025 CEW Beauty Awards kicked off with a heartfelt message from the awards’ originator, CEW president Carlotta Jacobson.

“The idea [for the awards] was simple, and still relevant today: to recognize the best of you — not just the products — but the people, the creatives and the work behind them,” said Jacobson, who has held the CEW president role since 1999 and in January will become the industry organization’s executive chair. Longtime beauty veteran Elana Drell Szyfer will succeed Jacobson as president.

“The Beauty Awards was the first program, when I joined the board, that I created, and this is the last time I stand here [on stage] as president. This program has meant more to me than I can put into words. Thank you all,” Jacobson continued.

The spirit of Jacobson

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