The ORT Jewelry Industry Chapter honored Debbie Azar, executive vice president of Gemological Science International, with its prestigious “Chapter Supporter of the Year” award.

The award was given by ORT Chapter Chair Phyllis Bergman, and Chapter President Mike Kaplan during the April 20 ORT Board meeting in New York City. Azar joined the ORT Chapter Board last year.

“Debbie has been extremely active in recruiting new supporters and raising funds for students around the world,” Gary Perl, senior field director for American ORT. “She is our MVP!”

Azar began her jewelry industry career by starting her own successful costume jewelry business, since transferred to her family. She has since worked in the loose diamond wholesaling, manufacturing, and gem laboratory areas of the industry. In March 2005, she joined GSI, a new gem lab, where she oversees marketing and customer relations. She is also active in Jewelers for Children and Women’s Jewelry Association.

ORT educates more children worldwide than any other non-governmental organization—more than 300,000 students in over 60 countries. Founded in 1880, its global network of educational institutes delivers state-of-the-art education in technology and science as well as traditional academic courses. For more information about ORT, visit www.aort.org or call 212-353-5822.

JCK