The Gemological Institute of America was recently honored by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology as a 2006 School of Distinction.

GIA was one of 31 schools out of the more than 840 in ACCSCT’s membership to qualify for the 2006 School of Distinction Award. The award honors institutions that have a proven record of providing quality education programs and that demonstrate a commitment to the expectations of the Commission’s accreditation. GIA’s on-campus education programs have been accredited by the group since 1973.

The Commission has been recognized by the United States Department of Education as a private, nonprofit, independent accrediting agency for the past 35 years. The agency recognizes non-degree-granting and degree-granting schools in the United States that are predominately geared toward occupational, trade, and technical careers. Susan Johnson, director of education administration, accepted the School of Distinction Award with Brook Ellis, vice president of education, at the group’s annual business meeting and awards breakfast, themed “Today’s Reality, Tomorrow’s Opportunity,” in Las Vegas on June 12. Johnson also serves as a volunteer team leader for on-site visits to other ACCSCT member schools.