Kathryn Kimmel, GIA's vice president and chief Marketing officer, was one of two recipients of the 2007 Excellence in Service Award from the Jewelers 24 Karat Club of Southern California. She and the other recipient, James West of Leading Jewelers Guild, were presented their awards at the 24 Karat Club's annual black-tie Fall Dinner Dance on Oct. 20.

The Excellence in Service Award is given to individuals who have made a momentous contribution to the diamond industry while elevating consumer esteem and respectable business practices.

Kimmel has led GIA's Marketing and Public Relations departments for 17 years. She founded GIA's annual Career Fair, is a founding member of the Women's Jewelry Association and is a board member for the Jewelry Information Center and the 24 Karat Club of Southern California.