Scholarship Opportunities at GIA

Scholarship Opportunities

for 2009-- Apply by Oct. 15

http://gia.edu

Oct. 15 is the deadline for prospective GIA students to apply for scholarships for the 2009 school year. No applications will be accepted after the deadline, so don't miss your chance to earn a world-class gemological education in the new year.

Students have four new scholarships to choose from this year, including the Golden Circle Steve Leibman Scholarship. Members of The Golden Circle Club of New York, an organization formed by returning WWII veterans as a social network for local jewelers, created the scholarship to honor the memory of fellow member Steve Leibman. The scholarship may be used toward a Distance Education Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) program.

"As lifelong members of the jewelry industry, [we] would like to ensure that future jewelers are equipped with all the tools that will continue to elevate the professionalism that exists in the industry today and in the future," says Todd Wolleman, former president of The Golden Circle Club. "[This GIA scholarship] commemorates our friend Steve Leibman, who was one of the nicest people to serve our industry. He had a heart of gold."

The R. Harder Gallery Scholarship, also available for the first time in 2009, is for Wisconsin residents interested in earning a G.G. diploma. The scholarship is funded by the Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company and administered by the Community Foundation for the Fox River Valley Region, based in Appleton, Wisconsin. It honors Ron Harder, former CEO of Jewelers Mutual Insurance, who retired in 2007 after 34 years with the company.

"My hope is that this scholarship can give someone the opportunity to work in a jewelry store, and at some time own one," says Harder, who has lived in the Fox River Valley area nearly all his life.

Also new for next year is the Absolute Brilliance Scholarship, which covers tuition for any On Campus or Distance Education Diamonds course.

"We want to support those hard working, retail sales people who are on the front line every day, and are the true backbone of the jewelry industry," says Dov Lisker of Absolute Brilliance, a supplier of special-order loose diamonds to national chains and independent retailers.

Lucien "Bud" Fluty, vice president of marketing and education for Absolute Brilliance agrees. "Education is our life blood, and we must continue to help educate those in the field."

Prospective students can also apply for the Butterfly of Peace Scholarship, established by Alan Bronstein through the sales of his book, Forever Brilliant. The recipient may use the funds for any On Campus or Distance Education course or program.

You can view a complete list of scholarships available for 2009, including new opportunities for international applicants, or download an application online. Information is also available through e-mail or by calling (800) 421-7250, ext. 4175.