LONIA TATE SCHOLARSHIP
LONIA TATE SCHOLARSHIP
Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC) Association’s mission is for the advancement of Black professionals within the gem and jewelry industry through networking, education, representation and an abundance of resources. We promote change in our industry with the fundamental understanding that by uniting our resources and partnering with allies, we cultivate growth and create opportunities through an alliance that is for us, by us. Our strategies include providing tools and resources for professional success and growth, and recruitment for increased representation through heightened awareness.
The 2025 Ben Bridge Lonia Tate Scholarship
We are excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 Ben Bridge Lonia Tate Scholarship! We established the scholarship in 2022 to honor the memory of our longtime associate, who was passionate about gemology and made history as the first black president of the Seattle Chapter of Executive Women International.
We are so proud of the vast opportunities that the Lonia Tate Scholarship offers for one lucky recipient, including the chance to earn their Graduate Gemologist Diploma from the Gemological Institute of America. Aimed to support emerging talent in the gemology field, the scholarship is specifically for those who aspire to work in the fine jewelry industry. With an estimated value of $15,000, the scholarship will cover tuition, books, and lab equipment for the online Graduate Gemologist program at GIA. The all-encompassing program is designed to open doors into a career in the world of fashion and fine jewelry.
Upon successful completion of the diploma program, the recipient will be offered a three-month paid internship opportunity with Ben Bridge, which includes potential travel to our home city of Seattle. As an intern, the scholarship winner will develop real-world experience to put their knowledge to great use. Our interns work directly with key associates and executives to gain invaluable hands-on training in a professional setting.
The finalist will be chosen in conjunction with The Black in Jewelry Coalition.
"We are proud to offer the Lonia Tate Scholarship as a tribute to our beloved colleague and her unwavering passion for the jewelry industry and her community," says Lisa Bridge, President & CEO of Ben Bridge Jeweler. "This scholarship not only honors Lonia's legacy but also empowers aspiring gemologists to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in the industry."
Applications will be accepted from February 26th through April 30th, with the winner announced in late May.
Who can apply to the 2025 Lonia Tate Scholarship?
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Reside in one of the following regions: Southern California (Los Angeles, Orange, or San Diego Counties), Greater Seattle Washington.
- Must be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S.