Faculty

Beauty Instructor Returns From Assisting Ukrainian Refugees

Beauty Marketing & Product Development Instructor Albin Gielicz recently returned from volunteering with JCD, the world’s leading Jewish humanitarian organization, at the Polish-Ukrainian border. “When the war started in February, I was extremely moved and saddened,” said Albin, who currently teaches the major’s Promotion and Presentation course. “Every evening while watching the news, I became increasingly frustrated by just sitting on the couch and decided that my role in all this needed to be different.”

After researching organizations looking for Russian speakers, Albin found the JDC, which has put together volunteer programs in Poland, Hungary, and Romania. “All in all it was fulfilling because it was comforting and helpful for the Ukrainians, the Polish, and other volunteers,” said Albin, who hails from Arlington Heights, Illinois and currently resides in Santa Monica, California. “There were difficult and sad moments, but my lasting impression was relief that they are safe and hope that Ukraine will prevail so these proud people can return home and rebuild their beautiful country.” 

Albin has been in the world of beauty marketing since 2004, and has worked for brands such as Mary Kay, Murad, and RevitaLash. The FIDM Instructor and marketer is also part of the Santa Monica Travel and Tourism Board of Directors and serves on the city's Recreation and Parks Commission. He graduated from Miami University (Ohio) and received an MBA from Thunderbird, School of Global Management. 

Categories:  Beauty Marketing & Product Development Faculty