The Gemological Institute of America recently appointed
Thomas Yang, senior vice president and president of the international division
at Callaway Golf Co., to its Board of Governors. His tenure began at the Nov.
14–15 board meeting.

Thomas Yang

“I am pleased to welcome Thomas Yang to our board of governors,”
said GIA president and CEO Donna Baker in a statement. “His successful
track record in introducing consumer brands to international markets will be
instrumental to GIA as we continue to grow our education programs and
laboratory services in India, the Middle East, and China.”

Yang has been with Callaway since 2006 and is responsible for
developing and executing the company’s international strategy and leading the
new product development team. Before that, he was a senior vice president at
Starbucks, where he oversaw the company’s consumer products business in
international markets. Yang also serves as a board member for the San Diego
World Trade Center and the School of Business at the University of San Diego.  

“I look forward to contributing to the board, especially as
the Institute continues its rapid global expansion,” said Yang in a statement. “The
dynamic aspects of the gem and jewelry industry, coupled with the high
standards of integrity of the GIA brand, mission and people, made this a
tremendous opportunity.”

JCK