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Las Vegas, NV--The American Gem Society has launched a new AGS “Women in Leadership Scholarship,” which aims to to encourage the “growth, development and connectivity of driven women professionals who will shape the future of the jewelry industry,” AGS said in a statement.

The scholarship provides one candidate with a complimentary registration to the American Gem Society's Conclave in 2024 and a $500 gift card for travel. In addition, the scholarship recipient will receive up to five one-hour personal mentoring sessions with industry leaders who have been selected based on the goals and interests of the recipient. These sessions will provide valuable insights, advice, and guidance on advancing their careers in the jewelry industry.

The scholarship was first announced during the 2023 AGS Conclave. It was followed by a panel discussion with women leaders, including Katherine Bodoh, CEO, American Gem Society; Lisa Bridge, CEO and president, Ben Bridge Jeweler; Brandee Dallow, chief communications and sustainability officer, Grandview Klein Diamonds; Annie Doresca, president, Black in Jewelry Council and CFO, Jewelers of America; Susan Jacques, president and CEO, GIA; and moderated by communications consultant, Jen Cullen Williams.

"The AGS Women in Leadership Scholarship is an important initiative to support and foster the growth of female leaders within the jewelry industry," Bodoh said. "Through this scholarship program, our goal is to empower women, foster growth, and unlock opportunities that bring mutual benefits to individuals and our industry."

"I am thrilled that we are able to offer this scholarship, building connections and learning from one another is one of the best ways to grow both personally and in a career,”  said Bridge, who is also president of the AGS board of directors “Pairing mentoring and Conclave attendance will create a rich experience for the recipient and we look forward to supporting their growth.”

Submissions for the AGS Women in Leadership Scholarship will open in Fall 2023. Applicants will be evaluated based on their professional achievements, leadership skills, and potential for future growth and contribution to the industry. The recipient selected by AGS will be notified in January 2024.

For more information on the AGS Women in Leadership and other scholarships, visit https://members.ags.org/scholarships.