The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has appointed Thomas Yang, senior vice president and president of the International division at Callaway Golf Co., to its Board of Governors. “I am pleased to welcome Thomas Yang to our Board of Governors,” said Donna Baker, president and CEO of GIA. “His successful track record in introducing consumer brands to international markets will be instrumental to GIA as we continue to grow our education programs and laboratory services in India, the Middle East and China.” %% Yang has served in international development for various high-profile companies, including Starbucks, Coca-Cola, Proctor & Gamble and Clorox, in positions of senior leadership at the local, regional and global levels. %% Yang has been with Callaway since 2006 and is responsible for developing and executing the company's international strategy and leading the new-product development team. Prior to this, he was a senior vice president at Starbucks, where he helped guide the growth and expansion of its retail business from eight to 32 countries. %% “Yang, who also serves as a board member for the San Diego World Trade Center and the School of Business at the University of San Diego, said, “The dynamic aspects of the gem and jewelry industry, coupled with the high standards of integrity of the GIA brand, mission and people, made this a tremendous opportunity.” %% His tenure began at the November 14-15 board meeting.