Los Angeles Graduates Celebrate Accomplishments
By Tara J. McKenna

Bianca Kawecki has a lot of educational degrees under her belt: a bachelor’s in art history, a master’s in religious studies and an associate’s in Jewelry Design from the Fashion Institute of Technology. But six months ago she realized she would need one more diploma to help her secure her dream job.

“I was aspiring to become a jewelry designer and a lot of the jobs required that you have your G.G.,” Kawecki said. “I also thought having a G.G. would give me a good foundation, so I came here (to GIA).”

Today, Kawecki has her Graduate Gemologist diploma to add to her stack of academic degrees and is eagerly anticipating finding a job as a jewelry designer. She was among 11 students who graduated with their G.G. from GIA’s Los Angeles learning center Nov. 13.

The 2003 graduation ceremony was held for the second time in the Gem & Mineral Hall of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. GIA Los Angeles Director Veronica Clark-Hudson welcomed the graduates.

“We’re very proud of the graduates today and feel we are very fortunate to be able to hold this ceremony here among the fabulous Hixon Collection of gemstones,” she said. “It is a very fitting place to honor our graduates.”

Robert B. Westover, former director of the California Jewelers Association of Southern California and graduate of GIA, and his wife, Helen, also attended the ceremony to support of the newest graduates of the Institute.

Vice President of GIA Education Brook Ellis was the keynote speaker.

“You should be very proud of yourselves because you join a really unique group of people who have their G.G.,” Ellis told the graduates.

“But remember, every day is a day you learn something new, keep building on what you learn and take advantage of the opportunities you have.”

Patrick Ball, director, Instructor Training for GIA Education, also spoke at the event.

“All of the knowledge and experience of GIA since it opened in 1931 is wrapped up in the diploma you just received. What you do with that key is up to you,” he said.

The graduates were proud of their accomplishment and look forward to careers in the gem and jewelry industry. Jesse Adams, who has been involved with rocks and minerals since he was 6 years old, decided to attend GIA to pursue a career in buying and selling rough gems.

“I’m trying to get involved with some miners, maybe buying and selling rough,” Adams said. “(Having your G.G.) helps to get your foot in the door.”

Laurie Montee went to GIA to become an appraiser for her mother’s antique and estate business in Encino, California.

“I came to GIA because I knew absolutely nothing before I started and now I know everything,” Montee said. “I know I still need to learn, but now I do have great knowledge.”