05/06/2026
This is the letter I wrote to explain my gift at the Paul Mitchell Academy in Rome, Italy.
Hi, I’m Cherisse White, a Nation Educator with John Paul Mitchell Systems since 1986.
My journey began in beauty school at a West Coast Spring Style Show in San Francisco, where I met Paul Mitchell and Jeanne Braa. I’ll never forget handing Paul a comb and holding his beer before he went on stage — a moment that truly changed my life.
After Paul Mitchell passed in 1989, I received a very special gift — a signed lithograph. Dr. Ron DiSalvo-JPMS original chemist wife JB DiSalvo captured Paul in his iconic fedora and is numbered 144 of only 200 made.
Today, I’m honored to pass this artwork forward, gifting it to the Paul Mitchell Academy in Rome, Italy, in celebration of Paul’s legacy and the family that continues to inspire us all.
Sincerely,
Cherisse White
Thank you, Cristina for the tour and making me feel so welcomed. It was great being able to share my story!