The Gemological Institute of America’s Board of Governors has released record funding for 2008 scholarships in the amount of $297,000 from the GIA Endowment Fund. This disbursement will fund approximately 49 new scholarships in the GIA Schools of Business, Gemology, and Jewelry Manufacturing Arts (both On Campus and Distance Education). This additional funding will allow the Institute to provide a total of 91 scholarships in 2008.

For the first time ever, GIA scholarship funding will be set aside for international Distance Education gemology students and those wishing to enroll on campus at GIA London and GIA India. The Institute will also expand its current scholarship program in the United States.

In preparation for awarding international scholarships, the Institute is addressing the local tax and legal issues in each country.

“We are thrilled to be expanding our scholarship program to reach deserving individuals around the world,” said Linda Ellis Harmeling, GIA vice president and chief advancement officer. “The education of tomorrow’s jewelers, gemologists, and business leaders is the best investment our industry can make in its future.”

The endowed scholarships are furnished by the interest earned on the GIA Endowment Fund. Because the principal is never touched, gifts to the Fund guarantee that the Institute can fulfill its educational nonprofit mission in perpetuity.

All 2008 scholarship applications must be received between June 15 and Oct. 15. The successful recipients will be selected and notified by Dec. 31.

Application forms will be available for download from GIA’s Web site beginning June 15. To find out more, call 760-603-4175 or e-mail financialaid@gia.edu.

To learn about contributing to the GIA Endowment Fund or a GIA scholarship, e-mail Institute Relations manager Bev Berthoty at bberthoty@gia.edu or call 760-603-4120.

JCK