The Gemological
Institute of America has named Jennifer A. Josef as director of education for
the New York campus.

Josef’s
appointment, effective Jan. 3, gives her responsibility for developing
educational outreach to the gem and jewelry industry, as well as the general
public.

Jennifer A. Josef (Photo courtesy of GIA)

Prior to joining
GIA, Josef was the director of public education and interpretation at The New
York Botanical Garden. She developed and implemented educational programs for
the public; led horticulture and educational activities; collaborated with other
cultural, research and academic institutions, such as The Smithsonian
Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum and the Poetry Society of America; and provided
interpretation for the exhibitions and permanent collections.

Josef also worked
with the Bruce Museum in Greenwich, Conn., as manager of outreach education
from 2005 to 2008. She was responsible for executing all outreach and after
school programs, recruiting and training instructors and junior educators, and
interacting with the region’s learning institutions and teachers.

She is on the board
of the New York City Museum Educators Round Table and a member of the American
Association of Museums.

JCK