Editor's Note: This story was originally published on Intercoiffure.com, reposted with permission.

Scott Buchanan, owner of Scott J Salons in NYC has been a member of Intercoiffure America Canada since 1995.

“It was always a dream of mine to be an ICA salon,” he says. “I trained as an intern under Michael Mazzei at NuBest, and he used to do photoshoots with ICA—I always wanted to be a part of it.” 

After serving under past presidents Lois Christie and Frank Gambuzza, and working closely with outgoing ICA President Sheila Wilson the past six years, Buchanan is set took the helm in early 2025. 

“Sheila and I seeded a lot of new initiatives through Covid, and I want to make sure we continue to water the seeds and see the initiatives grow,” he says.

Spotlight on ICA

These initiatives include bringing more awareness to ICA via schools, students and educators.

“In the past couple of years, we started our student and teacher competitions, and I look forward to our continued partnerships with other associations to strengthen these bonds and educate the industry on who ICA members are and the power in what we do,” he says. 

Buchanan will also focus on delivering regional events to ICA members. These popular mini gatherings are a format for sharing best practices and connection.

“Our regional events create more intimate sharing,” Buchanan says. “Then when members are at bigger events, they feel more connected.”

This year’s spring regional event is May 3-4 at Mouton’s Salon in Grapevine, Texas, hosted by owners Teresa and Bruce McGaha. The fall regional date is TBD, but will be hosted by owner Diane Cole Stevens at Cole Stevens Salon in Washington DC along with Reg Laws of PR at Partners.

But first, Buchanan will gather the board for their first strategic planning meeting in February where they’ll discuss opportunities for growth and explore ideas for the upcoming year.

“My goal is to grow membership this year by building awareness about ICA salons to owners and consumers,” he says. “We’ll work side by side with other associations and each other to get our message out.” 

Welcome, Sonya Dove

At the end of March, ICA members will attend the Spring Gathering in Las Vegas and experience the creativity of ICA’s newest artistic director, Sonya Dove.

“I’ve always admired Sonya’s work on ICA’s Color Council,” says Buchanan. “She’s a creative, innovative, wonderful educator who is of service to her audience. It will be interesting to see where she envisions the industry going from a service perspective.”  

Dove’s inspiration for hair color, cutting and style has always come from nature and her travels around the world.

“The colors and shapes nature provides are so inspiring for my hair creations, which are mixed with whatever is current and trending at that very moment, including the current Pantone color of the year,” she says.

The ICA stage is a perfect fit for Dove, who has a passion for people.

“I have always been passionate about inspiring others to live their best lives both personally and professionally,” she says. 

With Buchanan and Dove working side by side, ICA members are in for an exciting year filled with inspiration, creativity and new perspectives. 

Learn more about ICA, including how to become a member.