Dermalogica Honors Milan Institute Educators During 2025 Teacher Appreciation Week, Celebrating Excellence in Skin Therapy Education
When it comes to skincare, great teachers make all the difference. This year, three amazing instructors from Milan Institute just proved it to the world! During Dermalogica’s 2025 Teacher Appreciation Week, these educators were picked from hundreds of nominations across the country for the way they inspire, motivate, and change the lives of their students. Melissa Caluya, Marcella Dodd, and JohnMark Stephan aren’t just experts in skin care—they’re mentors who help students chase their dreams and launch careers in the beauty industry. Their passion and dedication show just how powerful a great teacher can be!
Milan Institute’s Educational Philosophy
The recognition of three Milan instructors, representing 15% of all national honorees, highlights the institution’s commitment to fostering educator-student connections grounded in real-world practice. Rayven O’Rourke, Milan Institute’s Assistant Director of Education, emphasized the collective effort behind this achievement.
“This is an outstanding accomplishment and a clear reflection of the dedication, talent, and hard work our team puts in every day.” says Rayven. “It speaks volumes about the quality and excellence we strive for in everything we do.”
Milan has partnered with Dermalogica as a quality supplier and an integral education resource for its esthetician program since 2018. The brand’s professional-grade products and curriculum resources are a cornerstone in its esthetician programs across California, Nevada, and Texas, creating a pipeline of skilled therapists versed in evidence-based skincare methodologies.
JohnMark Stephan
A recent graduate of our instructor training program, JohnMark Stephan embodies Milan’s ethos of cultivating talent within its ranks. JohnMark describes the “light bulb moment” as his greatest reward in the classroom at Milan Institute in Sparks.
“Seeing students grasp a concept and then teach it to peers—that’s when I know we’re creating masters of the trade,” JohnMark said. His teaching philosophy intertwines Dermalogica’s product expertise with hands-on learning, citing the Sound Sleep Cocoon and Calm Water Gel as staples in both his personal routine and classroom demonstrations.
Although he is a newer instructor, JohnMark’s students placed nominations with Dermalogica to send recognition his way. One student nomination read, “JohnMark is kind, thoughtful and wants to see you succeed. He comes in every day with the best attitude and he truly cares about his students do the best they possibly can.”
Marcella Dodd
At Milan Institute’s Clovis campus, Advanced Esthetics Instructor Marcella Dodd is both a Milan esthetician instructor and program graduate. She says the enthusiasm her students have is what keeps her in the classroom.
“My students are why I arrive early every day,” Marcella shares.
Dermologica’s product keeps students up-to-date on skincare science, according to Marcella. Their Biolumin-C Serum and Daily Microfoliant are tools that bridge theoretical knowledge with clinical results in Marcella’s classroom. Her approach of prioritizing positivity and peer collaboration fosters a unique learning environment.
One student nomination of Marcella Dodd read, “She is not only incredibly friendly and approachable, but she genuinely cares about each of us as individuals. She consistently checks in to see how we’re doing both personally and academically, creating a supportive environment that makes us feel seen and valued.
Melissa Caluya
For Melissa Caluya, teaching at Milan Institute in Las Vegas transcends technical instruction.
“It’s about nurturing the whole professional—confidence, emotional intelligence, and purpose,” she explains.
A devotee of Dermalogica’s Pro Pen microneedling device and sunscreens, Melissa emphasizes how these tools empower students to deliver transformative client outcomes. Her recognition, driven by student nominations, underscores the profound mentor relationships forged through Milan’s hands-on curriculum.
Melissa’s students sent in the following nomination submission: “She is very thorough and straightforward in the same breath very empathetic and patient. She has taught me so many valuable life techniques that will evolve me into the woman I deserve to be, the means to never give up, and to give my all in everything I attach my name to. Thank you Ms. Mel. We adore you!”
Dermalogica’s Educational Legacy Meets Modern Pedagogy
Founded in 1986 by skin therapist Jane Wurwand, Dermalogica has always intertwined product innovation with educator empowerment. The company’s partnership with Milan Institute exemplifies this mission and provides students access to industry-leading formulations. This collaboration ensures graduates enter the workforce proficient in protocols used by over 100,000 skincare professionals globally.
By spotlighting educators like Stephan, Dodd, and Caluya, Dermalogica reinforces the critical role of vocational training in meeting skincare needs. As students increasingly seek programs combining academic rigor with practical experience, Milan’s model and Dermalogica’s resources position its graduates at the forefront of an evolving industry.
Educating Beyond the Classroom
The recognition of three Milan instructors during Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 illuminates broader trends in skincare education. As Dermalogica continues to champion educator excellence, the ripple effects extend beyond classroom walls. Milan Institute is proud to be a part of the same journey.
