The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) marked a significant moment in its legacy during the recent Board of Governors meeting at its Carlsbad headquarters, honouring Susan M. Jacques with the Institute’s highest accolade, the Richard T. Liddicoat Award for Distinguished Achievement. The meeting also commemorated the retirement of Governor Barbara L. Dutrow, PhD, recognizing her years of scholarly guidance and institutional commitment.
The award was presented by Lisa Locklear and Pritesh Patel of GIA. Jacques, who stepped down as the Institute’s sixth president and CEO in August and will conclude her tenure at the end of the year, was celebrated for her enduring influence and leadership.
“It is with great pride and admiration that we present the Richard T. Liddicoat Award for Distinguished Achievement to Susan Jacques,” said Locklear. “A leader throughout her remarkable career, Susan has been the heart and soul of GIA.”
Patel emphasized the long-lasting impact of Jacques’s leadership. “Susan’s vision, integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication influenced GIA, the gem and jewellery industry, and everyone she has shared her time with,” he said. “That positivity will resonate for years to come.”
The Board also honoured Barbara L. Dutrow, who joined the GIA Board in 2016 and is the Williams Alumni Distinguished Professor of Geology at Louisiana State University. Her scientific perspective has supported GIA’s evolving research priorities and educational mission.
“Dutrow’s deep scientific expertise has been invaluable as GIA and the Board navigated the challenges and opportunities of the past decade,” said Locklear. “Her knowledge, enthusiasm, and passion for GIA’s mission will be missed.”
Since its establishment in 1994, the Richard T. Liddicoat Award for Distinguished Achievement has been awarded to only 14 individuals. Among them, three continue to serve GIA in research and advisory capacities: analytical microscopist John Koivula, Tom Moses, executive vice president and chief laboratory and research officer, and James E. Shigley, GIA’s only distinguished research fellow.