Beatrice Shipley Scholarship: Blake Graham, CSA
This year’s Beatrice Shipley Scholarship, presented in collaboration with GIA (Gemological Institute of America), has been awarded to Blake Graham, CSA, of Hannon Gemologists & Master Jewelers in Baton Rouge, LA. The scholarship covers tuition for the GIA Graduate Gemologist® program—either online or at the Carlsbad, CA campus—as well as the AGS Way Course and registration for the 2025 AGS and GIA Converge conference in Carlsbad, California.
“Receiving the Beatrice Shipley Scholarship is an incredible honor and a meaningful affirmation of my dedication to gemology,” said Mr. Graham. “It is a generous show of support that motivates me to keep learning with integrity and curiosity, and to uphold the excellence it represents. I’m truly grateful for the recognition and encouragement.”
Blake is currently the store director and manager at Hannon Gemologists & Master Jewelers. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising from Louisiana State University (LSU). After graduating, he began his career in jewelry retail, eventually joining Hannon, where he works closely with store owner Bayardo Jiron. Under Mr. Jiron’s mentorship, Blake has gained hands-on experience in custom design, jewelry repair, and appraisals. When Mr. Jiron retires, Blake will take over the business.
Women in Leadership Scholarship: Jessica Kohoutek, RJ
The AGS Women in Leadership Scholarship was created by the American Gem Society to support emerging women leaders in the jewelry industry. The 2025 recipient is Jessica Kohoutek, RJ, of Redlands Jewelers in Redlands, CA, whose strong leadership potential and passion for the industry stood out in the selection process. Jessica will receive complimentary registration to Converge 2025, a $500 gift card, and a personalized mentorship experience coordinated by AGS.
Jessica stated, “Receiving the AGS Women in Leadership Scholarship is an incredible honor. The American Gem Society has long been a name that I have looked up to for setting the standard of integrity in our industry, and to be recognized by such an organization — especially at this point in my journey — is both humbling and deeply encouraging. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to keep growing under the value AGS represents.”
A gemologist/appraiser and custom jewelry designer at Redlands Jewelers, Jessica brings a strong foundation in gemology, design, and client education to her work. She is a GIA Graduate Gemologist®, soon to be a Certified Gemologist® with the American Gem Society, and is a member of the National Association of Jewelry Appraisers, where she is currently taking classes.
Jessica has also trained extensively in CAD jewelry design, blending creativity and precision into her work. After years of balancing independent work and ongoing education while raising a family, Jessica is now stepping fully back into her professional career. She’s deeply honored to be recognized with the AGS Women in Leadership Scholarship—and describes it as a meaningful affirmation of her dedication and growth.
