True to the American Gem Society’s (AGS) dedication to continuous learning, we, along with key partners and AGS member groups, have awarded three educational scholarships to exceptional candidates in the AGS community. The recipients will also be spotlighted during Conclave in Austin, TX, April 15-17.
Women in Leadership Scholarship
Exclusively Diamonds
Mankato, MN
The American Gem Society proudly announces Amber Rank of Exclusively Diamonds in Mankato, Minnesota, as the first Women in Leadership Scholarship recipient. This scholarship highlights AGS’s dedication to nurturing future women leaders in the jewelry industry.
The scholarship includes a complimentary registration to the Society’s 2024 Conclave in Austin, Texas, from April 15–17, along with a $500 gift card. Additionally, the Women in Leadership Scholarship provides mentoring with an industry leader matched by AGS to align with Amber’s goals and interests. Amber will receive personalized advice, insights, and guidance tailored to advancing her career within the jewelry industry.
“Amber exemplifies the drive and spirit the Women in Leadership Scholarship seeks to promote,” said Katherine Bodoh, CEO of the American Gem Society. “We are proud to support her progress and are excited to see where her journey takes her.”
“This award affirms my dedication to excellence and continuous growth,” said Amber. “It empowers me to elevate my leadership skills further, build significant connections, and gain invaluable insights from a mentor, enhancing not only my professional journey but also contributing to the advancement of women in the dynamic world of jewelry.”
Amber Rank is a Sales Lead and TUDOR Experience Liaison at Exclusively Diamonds in Mankato, Minnesota. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Communication from Bethany Lutheran College.
Amber began her professional journey in the jewelry industry when she joined Exclusively Diamonds in 2020. She has earned the American Gem Society’s Certified Sales Associate designation.
Beatrice Shipley Scholarship
Pompos Jewelry
Los Angeles, CA.
The 2024 Beatrice Shipley Scholarship was awarded to Linette Angulo of Pompos Jewelry in Los Angeles, CA.
The scholarship was created by GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and the American Gem Society (AGS) in 2019. AGS administers the application process and awards the scholarship to an AGS member.
The scholarship will cover tuition for the GIA Graduate Gemologist® program online or on campus in Carlsbad, California, the costs of the AGS Way Course, and entry to the 2024 AGS Conclave event in Austin, Texas, April 15-17.
“The selection process for this year’s Beatrice Shipley Scholarship was as difficult as ever, given the exceptional quality of submissions,” said Katherine Bodoh, CEO of the American Gem Society. “Each applicant’s story, along with their commitment to advancing through education, deeply moved us. Linette’s application, in particular, captured our attention with its compelling nature, leading us to award her the scholarship.”
“As part of GIA’s steadfast commitment to educating the next generation of jewelry professionals and upholding our important consumer protection mission, it brings us joy to congratulate Linette Angulo on being awarded this year’s AGS and GIA Beatrice Shipley scholarship,” said Susan Jacques, GIA President and CEO. “This scholarship not only honors the legacy of our founder, Beatrice Shipley, but also represents GIA’s dedication to nurturing talent and empowering aspiring professionals in the gem and jewelry industry.”
Linette was born and raised in Southern California. She grew up accompanying her father to his business, Pompos Jewelry, witnessing “the magic” he and her brothers created with their hands. Since graduating from high school in June 2023, Linette has been working full-time with her family, gaining valuable hands-on experience.
“It is a great honor to receive the Beatrice Shipley Scholarship!” said Linette. “I am extremely grateful to the American Gem Society and GIA for giving me this opportunity and helping me expand my knowledge. I am excited to begin my gemology journey and become integrated into the jewelry industry.”
AGS Young Titleholders Conclave Scholarship
- Daniel Abdallah – Maya Caroleena Jewelers, Gilbert, AZ
- Lisa Bradshaw – John J. Bradshaw, Nashua, NH
- Kimberly Ngarupe – Duke’s Jewelers, Springville, UT
- Leslie Rollins – Zachary’s Jewelers, Annapolis, MD
- David Rubenstein – Betz Jewelers, Columbia, MO
- Torre Spellman – Skeie’s Jewelers, Eugene, OR
- Tiana Yamaguchi – Vardy’s Jewelers, Cupertino, CA
