Space Still Available for European Trip

The Alumni Association is now accepting sign-ups for the GIA Travel Program trip to Europe Sept. 19-Oct. 1. The tour will begin in London, where the group will visit the De Beers Diamond Trading Company to see a rough diamond sorting room and two company presentations. Members will also visit with Crown Jeweller David V. Thomas, who will share a private viewing of the British Crown Jewels.

In Antwerp, members will have the opportunity to visit the HRD to learn how the organization is working to further develop the historic city as a world diamond center. They will also tour the Bourse and the Rosy Blue cutting and polishing factory in Herenthout. The group will then head to Idar-Oberstein to visit Wild & Petsch to try their hands at a cutting wheel, and spend a day at the InterGem trade show.

The trip will also include a stay in Amsterdam where members will visit the Royal Asscher Diamond Company. Space is limited. Call travel agent Nancy Porras Knight at (310) 271-9566 or e-mail: nancyk@protravelinc.com for details.

Sign Up and Go on the Road

Have you created a new tool that could help jewelry manufacturers? Are you a savvy, motivational speaker with marketing know-how? If you have a product or skill that can benefit others, here’s your chance to share that knowledge with fellow alums.

When you sign up for the Alumni Association’s Speakers Bureau, chapters from around the globe will be able to call on you to be a guest speaker. Not only will you be doing your peers a favor, you’ll also expand your networking opportunities. Contact the Alumni Association for more information. 

Join the Mentor Program

Become a GIA Alumni mentor and help gemology students in your area. Mentors are needed to share their gemological equipment and instruct students on how to use it. Mentors also enjoy the benefit of refreshing their gemological knowledge as they lend a hand to students, said Rose McKenna, Alumni Relations manager.

Membership Campaign Coming Soon
 
GIA launched its most successful Alumni membership campaign last year, raising more than $50,000 to support the Association. The organization hopes to build on the success when it reaches out to GIA graduates with the 2005 campaign later this year.

“By becoming a member, not only do you have fantastic networking opportunities, but you are privy to exclusive benefits such as the Alumni-2-Alumni Benefit Program and access to key speakers that keep you up-to-date on hot industry issues,” McKenna said.

Watch your mailboxes for the 2005 Alumni Membership Campaign packet to support the GIA Alumni Association.

Get Your Decals and Countertop Cards

Advertise to the world that you’re an active Alumni member. The redesigned bold green and gold 2005 Alumni Association window decals and countertop cards are now available. The decals and cards are free to members. Call to get yours.