Jewelry students win national scholarships

Published or Revised August 14, 2008

Two students attending the Texas Institute of Jewelry Technology at Paris Junior College have been awarded national scholarships. Both Jacqueline Bartush of Muenster and Angela Hampton of Sulphur Springs are pursuing an associate's degree in jewelry technology. "We're very pleased and proud to have two winners of important scholarships in one year," says TIJT Division Chair Ulla Raus. The Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America Education Foundation, a non-profit educational branch of MJSA, has given a $750 scholarship to Bartush. Awards were made to six talented design students nationwide who are enrolled in jewelry-related programs. Hampton received a Coca-Cola Foundation scholarship for $1,000. This is awarded to only 350 students in two-year degree institutions across the United States. A 2.5 GPA is required, as is active engagement in volunteer service or be employed at least part-time. This scholarship is designed to reward leadership and excellence. "Both scholarships call for an outstanding candidate who does a lot of volunteer work and has a bright future in their industry" added Raus. "Both of these women went far above what was needed — stretching themselves to give more." Since 1942 Paris Junior College's jewelry technologies program has attracted students from across the U.S. and from around the globe, drawn to the North Texas campus by the institution's reputation for excellence within the industry, as well as its affordability.