Ben Bridge Jeweler has established the Lonia Tate Scholarship to support diversity in the gemology sector.
Named in honour of the pioneering Lonia Tate, the first Black President of the Seattle Chapter of Executive Women International, the scholarship aims to support minority students pursuing a career in gemology. The scholarship is set at $10,000 and is tailored specifically for high school graduates looking to further their education in this specialised field.
Scholarship Details and Benefits
The Lonia Tate Scholarship offers a comprehensive package to aid students in their education. It covers the costs associated with the Graduate Gemologist program offered online through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This includes tuition fees, essential textbooks, and necessary lab equipment, though it does not cover travel expenses for mandatory lab classes that occur on GIA campuses.
Upon successful completion of the program, scholarship recipients are presented with the opportunity to engage in a three-month paid internship at Ben Bridge Jeweler. This may include travel to Seattle, Washington, offering practical experience in the jewelry industry..
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for the Lonia Tate Scholarship, applicants must be recent high school graduates aged 18 or older, demonstrate financial need, and reside within specific regions of Southern California or Greater Seattle. Additionally, applicants must be either U.S. or Canadian citizens or permanent residents from designated minority backgrounds.
The selection process aims to identify individuals who not only meet these criteria but who are also driven to make significant contributions to the field of gemology, much like Lonia Tate herself.
Implications for the Jewelry Industry
This initiative by Ben Bridge Jeweler not only commemorates a notable figure in the jewelry community but also addresses crucial diversity gaps within the industry. The scholarship aims to broaden educational opportunities for minority groups, potentially enriching the field with new perspectives. Diverse backgrounds may contribute to greater inclusivity and innovation in the industry.
Get more information here.
