TIJT graduates 9 during Thursday ceremonies

Published or Revised August 08, 2008

The Texas Institute of Jewelry Technology, a division of Paris Junior College, held summer graduation ceremonies Thursday in the Ray Karrer Theater. TIJT Division Chairman Ulla Raus introduced Dwight Chaney, dean of academic instruction, and guest speaker Adam Graham, marketing manager for the American Gem Trade Association. She introduced TIJT faculty and staff members and noted the number of years of service and accreditations that various faculty members have achieved. Raus thanked the Paris Junior College Board of Regents for their strong support through the 66 years the program has been in operation. Graham, who is based in Dallas, comes from a long history in marketing and originally is from British Columbia. Graham told the graduates that they have chosen to enter a unique industry. "You will play a role in special events of people's lives," he said. "You will build your reputation and your name by your ethics — trust, honesty, truthfulness." Graham urged them to build their presence in the industry through the many organizations available to them; by attending trade shows; through continuing education to keep up with latest techniques; and by networking with others throughout the industry. "You are entering a field where you can have a passion for your work and enjoy going to work each day," he said. Raus announced the nominees for the Stuller Awards for Excellence and named the winners. Andrew Kumor of Bellevue, Nebraska, won the Platinum Award ($500). Danny Lynn Cole of Plano won the Gold Award ($300), and Rachel Gean Kelsoe of Avery won the Silver Award ($200). These awards are sponsored by Stuller Settings Inc. and are in the form of monetary accounts set up with the company. Receiving certificates of completion in jewelry technology were Jacqueline Bartush of Muenster, Texas; Jed Braun of Anchorage, Alaska; Ashley Calloway of Avery, Texas; Danny Lynn Cole of Plano, Texas; Rachel Gean Kelsoe of Avery, Texas; Andrew C. Kumor of Bellevue, Nebraska; Timothy Wayne Madigan of San Antonio, Texas; Stephen Thode of Enumclaw, Washington; and Jacob K. Walker of Victoria, Texas. Following the ceremonies friends and family members joined the graduates for a reception.