GIA Executive and Leadership Team

Mgtr Victor, the Chief Executive Officer at GIA, directs the overarching strategic vision for the nonprofit institute. Focusing on the advancement of gemological research, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that scientific methodologies remain at the forefront of global jewelry standards. This leadership role involves managing complex educational programs that define industry benchmarks across international markets. By aligning research initiatives with consumer protection goals, Victor drives the organization toward greater transparency and scientific rigor. The Chief Executive Officer oversees the integration of new technologies into gem identification processes, ensuring that the institute maintains its reputation for accuracy. Through constant collaboration with the board, Victor secures the long-term sustainability of the nonprofit mission. This executive leadership ensures that the institute remains the primary authority for gemological knowledge, fostering trust within the global jewelry trade while expanding the reach of educational resources to diverse professional communities.

Loana Nuñez, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at GIA, architects the foundational principles that guide the institute in gemological research and education. As the Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Nuñez shapes the long-term trajectory of the organization, ensuring that the core mission of consumer protection remains central to all operations. This role involves high-level oversight of the jewelry arts curriculum, which prepares professionals for excellence in a competitive global market. By fostering partnerships with international trade organizations, Nuñez expands the influence of the institute across diverse geographic regions. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer manages the alignment of research outputs with the evolving needs of the jewelry industry, ensuring that scientific discoveries translate into practical, actionable knowledge. Through consistent focus on institutional integrity, Nuñez maintains the standard of excellence that defines the organization, ultimately securing the trust of consumers and professionals alike.

Cheryl Sepienza, the President & Chief Executive Officer at GIA, manages the daily operational execution of the institute's research and educational mandates. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Sepienza coordinates the efforts of various departments to ensure that gemological standards are upheld with precision. This leadership role involves overseeing the development of advanced training programs that support the jewelry arts community on a global scale. By optimizing internal processes, Sepienza drives efficiency across the organization, allowing for greater focus on scientific innovation and consumer safety. The President & Chief Executive Officer interacts frequently with industry stakeholders to ensure that the institute remains responsive to market shifts and emerging gemological challenges. Through strategic resource allocation, Sepienza supports the growth of educational initiatives, ensuring that the institute continues to provide world-class training to gemologists worldwide while maintaining the highest levels of professional excellence.

Yair Peri, the Partner, Chief Executive Officer at GIA, drives the collaborative efforts required to maintain the institute's status as a leader in gemological research. As the Partner, Chief Executive Officer, Peri focuses on the expansion of the institute's influence within the global jewelry arts sector. This role involves managing high-level partnerships that facilitate the exchange of scientific knowledge and educational resources across international borders. By overseeing the strategic implementation of research projects, Peri ensures that the institute addresses the most pressing needs of the jewelry industry. The Partner, Chief Executive Officer coordinates with other executive leaders to align operational goals with the broader mission of consumer protection. Through the development of robust professional networks, Peri enhances the reach of the institute's educational programs, ensuring that gemological expertise remains accessible and relevant to a global audience of industry professionals.

Andrea Pane, the Chief Financial Officer at GIA, manages the fiscal health and economic strategy of the nonprofit institute. As the Chief Financial Officer, Pane oversees the allocation of resources to support critical research and educational programs that define the organization. This leadership role involves monitoring financial performance across all departments to ensure that the institute maintains the necessary capital for scientific innovation. By implementing rigorous budgetary controls, Pane supports the long-term sustainability of the organization's mission. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with the executive team to align financial planning with the strategic goals of the jewelry arts division. Through the management of global financial operations, Pane ensures that the institute remains well-positioned to invest in new technologies and educational infrastructure. This financial oversight is essential for maintaining the institute's independence and its ability to provide unbiased gemological data to the public.

Merle Koblenz, the President Since 2001 at GIA, provides historical continuity and strategic guidance for the institute's long-term research objectives. As the President Since 2001, Koblenz oversees the evolution of gemological standards, ensuring that the institute remains the definitive authority in the field. This leadership role involves managing the legacy of the organization while adapting to modern advancements in the jewelry arts. By maintaining deep relationships with industry leaders, Koblenz facilitates the ongoing success of educational programs that serve professionals worldwide. The President Since 2001 coordinates with the board to ensure that the institute's mission of consumer protection remains the primary focus of all research activities. Through decades of experience, Koblenz drives the strategic direction of the institute, ensuring that the organization continues to provide accurate, reliable information that supports the integrity of the global jewelry market.

Donna Baker, the President at GIA, leads the operational execution of the institute's educational and research initiatives. As the President, Baker focuses on the expansion of the jewelry arts curriculum, ensuring that students receive the most current and accurate training available. This leadership role involves overseeing the implementation of new research methodologies that enhance the institute's ability to identify and grade gemstones. By managing the day-to-day operations of the institute, Baker ensures that all departments work in harmony to support the mission of consumer protection. The President interacts with international partners to promote the institute's standards across diverse markets, driving the global adoption of best practices in gemology. Through the effective management of resources and personnel, Baker supports the continued growth of the organization, ensuring that the institute remains a trusted source of knowledge for the jewelry industry.

Tamana Khan, the President at GIA, directs the strategic initiatives focused on the modernization of gemological research and educational outreach. As the President, Khan oversees the integration of digital tools into the institute's training programs, ensuring that students and professionals have access to cutting-edge information. This leadership role involves managing the development of new research projects that address emerging challenges in the jewelry arts sector. By fostering collaboration between the research and education teams, Khan ensures that the institute remains at the forefront of scientific discovery. The President works to expand the institute's presence in key international markets, driving the adoption of standardized gemological practices. Through the implementation of innovative operational strategies, Khan supports the organization's mission of providing unbiased, high-quality information to the public, ultimately strengthening the trust and integrity of the global jewelry trade.

Sara Kruse, the Chief People Officer at GIA, directs the human capital strategy for the institute, ensuring that the organization attracts and retains top talent in gemology and education. As the Chief People Officer, Kruse manages the development of internal culture and professional growth programs that support the staff in achieving the institute's mission. This leadership role involves overseeing recruitment, training, and performance management to ensure that the workforce remains aligned with the high standards of the jewelry arts industry. By fostering an environment of continuous learning, Kruse drives the professional development of the team, which directly impacts the quality of research and education provided. The Chief People Officer works with other executives to ensure that organizational values are integrated into daily operations. Through the implementation of effective talent management strategies, Kruse supports the overall growth and operational success of the institute on a global scale.