Sam Villa, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of the Sam Villa Company, has been named this year’s recipient of the Leo Passage Award at the Intercoiffure America | Canada Fall Atelier 2025.
The award celebrates educators and mentors who exemplify generosity, purpose, and service in the beauty industry — values long associated with the late Leo Passage, founder of Pivot Point International.
Established in 2011, the honor recognizes those who elevate others through teaching and example.
“Our industry is filled with incredible educators, and Sam Villa truly embodies what it means to be one,” says Robert Passage, chairman and CEO of Pivot Point International. “He possesses all the qualities of a great teacher — warmth, kindness, patience, humility, and mastery of his craft.”
Reflecting on Passage’s influence and his own lifelong commitment to education, Villa says, “Leo was a true visionary, not only in how he viewed education but in how he elevated the stylist’s role as both artist and professional.
“To be honored in this light is deeply humbling. Thank you for allowing me to continue the work of lifting our craft,” says Villa, also a global artistic ambassador for Redken.
ICA President Scott Buchanan presented the award virtually, describing Villa as “a leader with heart” whose dedication to education continues to shape the next generation of stylists. “Our industry is stronger, kinder, and more creative because of you,” Buchanan says.
Villa received the physical award from Josh Hafetz, principal of Ethos Beauty Partners, while teaching at the 2025 HairLove event hosted by Ethos.
“It was such a privilege to present Sam with this lifetime honor while he was doing what he does best: educating,” Hafetz says. Villa’s class ended with a 500-person standing ovation.