Colorful birthday hats, party decorations, a giant cake and a balloon drop set the tone at the annual GIA Dance Party and Auction, sponsored by the Alumni Association. More than 400 guests celebrated the Institute's 75th anniversary at the Marriott University Park Hotel on Feb. 3.

Held in conjunction with the Tucson gem and mineral shows, the silent and live auctions helped raise more than $20,000 for the Alumni Endowment Fund, which is used to enhance Alumni events such as continuing education activities and networking opportunities.

Joseph DuMouchelle, G.G., once again volunteered his time to call the bids in the live auction. DuMouchelle, a third-generation auctioneer, helped drive prices up by elaborating on the value and significance of the pieces.

"This year's silent and live auctions were another big success thanks to the generosity of our auction item donors and bidders," says Rose McKenna, manager of Alumni Relations. "We really appreciate the people who support our dance party and auctions year after year. They help make it fun and special."

Alumni members and chapters were honored for their efforts:

Outstanding Chapter: Texas-Lone Star; Alumni Association Japan.

Chapters of the Year: California-Golden Gate; Washington, D.C.; New York-Manhattan; Illinois-Wisconsin.

Special Recognition to New Chapters: California-Orange County; Caribbean Islands.

Chapter Members of the Year: Janisue Rigel, A.J.P., Texas-Lone Star; Michele Zabel, G.G., Washington, D.C.; Gail Brett Levine, G.G., New York-Manhattan; Satoru Masano, G.G., Alumni Association Japan; and Shelley Hirsh, Texas-Lone Star.

Volunteers of the Year: Merle Koblenz, G.G., New York-Manhattan; Richard Hirsh, Texas-Lone Star; Seiji Sato, G.G., Japan.