Susan Jacques, President and CEO of GIA, has earned the International Colored Gemstone Association’s (ICA) Lifetime Achievement Award. Jacques accepted the medal at a gala dinner ceremony in Brasilia on May 19-22, following the conclusion of the ICA Congress.
ICA President Damien Cody stated, “Susan has served our industry in a variety of capacities, always with remarkable dedication and skill. While she has done a lot in her career, what stands out the most to me is her genuine warmth and kindness—qualities that have gained her deep respect and affection from all levels of our field. As she prepares to retire from GIA at the end of the year, her influence will last for generations.
Doug Hucker, ICA CEO, adding, “Susan is a shining example of generational leadership excellence. We have been honored to work with her for so many years. While she may leave her job at the GIA, she will continue to serve as a role model for other industry professionals.”
Susan Jacques stated, “I feel truly honored and extraordinarily privileged to have been a part of this amazing industry for over 45 years.” This is a fantastic honour, extremely unexpected, but I am overjoyed to be recognized for what has been a very happy career.”
Susan Jacques became GIA’s president and CEO on January 1, 2014, after serving as interim CEO for six months. She has previously served on the GIA Board of Governors since 1996, and she was its Chair from 2008 to 2014. As CEO, she remained a member of the Board. Jacques will step down as GIA President and CEO at the end of 2025.