Differing Views Spur Donna Baker's Resignation as Pres/CEO at GIA

Donna Baker Resigns as President and CEO of GIA

Board Chair Susan M. Jacques Interim President and CEO

The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) Board of Governors announced today that due to differing views on the direction of GIA, Donna M. Baker has resigned as President and CEO of the Institute. At the request of the Board of Governors, board chair Susan M. Jacques, President and CEO of Borsheims Fine Jewelry and Gifts, will be interim President and CEO while the board conducts a search for a new executive.

Tom Moses, Senior Vice President of Laboratory and Research will continue overseeing all of GIA’s global laboratory operations. Bev Hori, Vice President of Education and Chief Learning Officer, will continue to lead GIA’s gemological and industry education efforts. No other changes in management are anticipated.

Professional Jeweler added, "Earlier this year the GIA relaunched its website with revisions to its global-standard gem grading and identification reports.  

Donna Baker said at the time: "These advances are the next steps in our continuous effort to serve the global public by bringing the fascinating world of gems, gemmology and jewellery to people all around the world and helping to ensure their trust in gems and jewellery."

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, GIA (Gemological Institute of America), established in 1931, is recognized as the world’s foremost authority in gemology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat Weight in the early 1950s and in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world.

Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Visit www.gia.edu.