The 24 Karat Club Southeastern United States (SEUS) has announced that applications are currently being accepted for the Club’s 2020 scholarships. “The 24 Karat Club SEUS is extremely proud of the tradition of awarding well deserving candidates the opportunity of furthering their education through our scholarship programs. There is no more satisfaction than having these talented award recipients acknowledge what a difference these scholarships have made in their lives,” said Club president Randy Lindsey. “There truly is no better award than the gift of learning.”
“In 2016, I was the recipient of the 24 Karat Club Robert Foreman Memorial Scholarship,” said Krista Lovering, Ford, Gittings and Kane Jewelers. “Since receiving this scholarship, I have completed multiple classes through the Gemological Institute of America and I am now several steps closer to reaching my goal of becoming a Certified Gemologist. This scholarship has meant the world to me, as it has helped provide me with a career that I love and has given me a way to become a professional in this industry by gaining more knowledge. One of the most exciting and rewarding experiences for me thus far, was receiving my diploma for the completion of the Graduate Diamonds course, which this scholarship paid for. Without the 24 Karat Club believing in me and trusting me to use this scholarship money for my highest potential, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Available scholarships include:
- Robert Foreman Memorial Scholarship – a $2000 award to be used for jewelry education and training.
- Diamond in the Rough Scholarship – Two or more scholarships distributed from a $2500 fund to be used for jewelry industry education and training. This scholarship program is made available through a gift from Club member Judy Upton, president of Judy Carter & Associates Insurance Agency.
- Sterling Reputation Scholarship – Two or more scholarships distributed from a $2500 fund to be used for jewelry industry education and training. This scholarship program is made available through a gift from Club member Steve Berkowitz, owner of Sterling Reputation, a leading manufacturer of sterling silver jewelry.
- Ralph Williams Education Scholarship – $1500 award funded by Club members Carolyn Woltz Lennon, Robert Loving and Terry Chandler in memory of long-time member and former Club president Ralph Williams.
- Diamond Council of America (DCA) Scholarships – Several scholarships covering the cost of any course from DCA – made available through a generous gift from the DCA. DCA offers professional certifications in diamonds, colored gemstones and jewelry sales through distance education.
Application requirements
Individuals employed in the jewelry industry for a minimum of 2 years, currently working in the industry and holding residence in the following states are eligible to apply: AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV. The deadline for application submission is June 19, 2020.
Applicants must be nominated to the Club’s Scholarship Committee by a 24 Karat Club member. A list of members can be found at www.The24KaratClub.org.
An application must be completed by the candidate and submitted along with a letter to the Scholarship Committee outlining the candidate’s journey in the jewelry industry, including their future plans, and a letter of recommendation from the sponsoring member. A supporting letter from the candidate’s employer is welcome. The winners will be announced at the Club’s 46th annual Gala in August.
To obtain an application or for more information contact a 24 Karat Club SEUS member or email info@the24karatclub.org.
About the 24 Karat Club Southeastern United States
The 24 Karat Club SEUS is a prestigious organization of industry professionals representing leading members from the jewelry supplier sector. Members are considered and recognized because of their industry accomplishments, personal and civic contributions and their commitment to the betterment of the jewelry industry. For more information visit www.The24KaratClub.org or email info@the24karatclub.org.
