The Gemological Institute of America has selected GIA Graduate Gemologist (G.G.) Carolyn A. Segars, of Mt. Pleasant, S.C., as its 2004 Outstanding Distance Education Graduate of the Year.

Presented annually by the Distance Education Training Council (DETC), the award is given to one exceptional GIA Distance Education student who has achieved extraordinary standards of academic and personal excellence. DETC is the national organization that sets standards for and accredits GIA’s Distance Education courses and programs.

“In just nine months, Carolyn was able to complete the G.G. requirements with very high marks” said GIA’s Vice President of Education Brook Ellis. “Her dedication to the highest standards upholds the principles GIA advocates. Because of her commitment to advanced education in gemology, she is an important asset to her employer, to the public she serves, as well as to the industry.”

During her enrollment in the G.G. Distance Education program, Segars worked at Skatell’s Manufacturing Jewelers in the Charleston, S.C. area. Since the achievement of her G.G. diploma, she has now been promoted to their corporate office where she is in charge of all appraisals.

“When I began working in jewelry in 1996, I realized how the entire industry respects GIA’s Graduate Gemologist program; it seemed as though it was the pinnacle for everyone in jewelry,” said Segars. “The best part about having this diploma is the confidence it has given me while I’m selling diamonds and colored stones. Being able to properly inform our customers is invaluable. It’s also exciting when fellow employees come to me with questions.”

JCK