(PRESS RELEASE) NEENAH, WI – Jewelers Mutual Group, the insurance and business solutions provider dedicated to the jewelry industry since 1913, recently announced the establishment of the Ron Harder Gemological Scholarship in collaboration with the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This $50,000 scholarship is designated to support the education and development of future gemologists and will be disbursed over five years with an annual award of $10,000.
The scholarship is named in honor of Ron Harder, who served as the Chief Executive Officer of Jewelers Mutual from 1982 through 2007, and whose legacy in the jewelry industry is marked by his unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation and education. Harder’s impact on the industry, particularly his support to industry associations such as the GIA, reflects his and Jewelers Mutual’s commitment to fostering knowledge and skill development among aspiring jewelers.
“We are honored to establish the Ron Harder Gemological Scholarship with GIA to elevate the love of jewelry and carry forward Ron’s legacy by supporting the next generation of gemologists,” said Scott Murphy, current President and Chief Executive Officer at Jewelers Mutual. “Together, we are helping to advance and strengthen the jewelry industry for the future.”
The scholarship is open to all students currently enrolled in GIA’s gemology program. Applicants are invited to submit a single essay of 500 to 1000 words, detailing how the scholarship would facilitate their completion of the program and prepare them for a successful career in the jewelry industry. The application window for the Ron Harder Gemological Scholarship opens on April 1st and closes on April 30th.
“I am delighted to see Jewelers Mutual and GIA investing in future gemologists,” said Harder. “This scholarship reflects our shared dedication to nurturing talent and ensuring the industry’s continued growth and success.”
GIA, renowned for its commitment to excellence in gemological education, is equally enthusiastic about the collaboration. “Education is at the heart of our mission, and we are grateful for Jewelers Mutual’s support to empower students with the knowledge and skills to launch successful gem and jewelry careers,” said Susan Jacques, GIA President and Chief Executive Officer.
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Ron Harder Gemological Scholarship applications will be accepted through the GIA application portal at GIA application portal:here.
ABOUT JEWELERS MUTUAL GROUP
Jewelers Mutual was founded in 1913 by a group of Wisconsin jewelers to meet their unique insurance needs. Later, consumers began putting their trust in Jewelers Mutual to protect their jewelry and the special memories each piece holds. Today, Jewelers Mutual continues to support and move the industry forward by listening to jewelers and consumers and offering products and services to meet their evolving needs. Beyond insurance, Jewelers Mutual’s powerful suite of innovative solutions and digital technology offerings help jewelers strengthen and grow their businesses, mitigate risk, and bring them closer to their customers. The Group insurers’ strong financial position is reflected in their 37 consecutive “A+ Superior” ratings from AM Best Company, as of November 2023. Policyholders of the Group insurers are members of Jewelers Mutual Holding Company. Jewelers Mutual is headquartered in Neenah, Wisconsin, with other Group offices in Dallas, Texas and Miami, Florida. To learn more, visit JewelersMutual.com.
ABOUT THE GEMOLOGICAL INSTITUTE OF AMERICA
An independent nonprofit organization, GIA (Gemological Institute of America), established in 1931, is recognized as the world’s foremost authority in gemology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat Weight and, in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which is recognized around the world as the standard for diamond quality. Through research, education, gemological laboratory services and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science and professionalism. Visit GIA.edu for more information.
