(PRESS RELEASE) The MJSA Education Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit supporting career and training initiatives throughout the jewelry industry, has awarded “Future of Jewelry Making” scholarships to four aspiring jewelers. Each of the students received $2,250 to help them turn their passion for jewelry making and design into rewarding careers.
“The drive, dedication, and talent of these students show that the future of jewelry making and design rests in good hands,” said Rich Youmans, executive director of the MJSA Education Foundation. “All presented a true desire to develop their skills, hone their creativity, and pursue excellence. We’re very pleased to be able to help them take the next steps in their education and along their paths toward becoming professional jewelers.”
(left to right) Elle Jerge, Anastacia Lauren & Logan Nye
The following students were recognized as recipients of this year’s scholarships:
- Elle Jerge, who is pursuing a B.F.A. in jewelry at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia. She is entering her senior year.
- J. Kreis, who will be entering the New Approach School for Jewelers in Arrington, Tennessee, with the intent to ultimately complete the school’s Graduate Bench Jeweler program by spring 2026.
- Anastacia Lauren, who is working toward a Jewelry Design and Technology diploma from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in Carlsbad, California. She expects to graduate in spring 2026.
- Logan Nye, who is entering his final year at the Texas Institute of Jewelry Technology in Paris, Texas. He is pursuing a certificate in Jewelry Technology.
Since 1997, the MJSA Education Foundation has provided more than $280,000 in support to U.S. students pursuing careers in jewelry making and design. The scholarships are managed by the Rhode Island Community Foundation on behalf of MJSA. To learn more and see profiles of several scholarship winners, go to the Career Connections section on MJSA.org.
