DG&Q Owner Receives Prestigious Women in Stone Empowerment Scholarship

Natural StoneNatural Stone InstituteAwards

Aug 30

DuBois Granite & Quartz is proud to announce that co-owner Joanne Bish has been honored as the recipient of the 2023 Women in Stone Empowerment Scholarship, an initiative by the Natural Stone Institute (NSI) to foster leadership and growth within the stone industry. Bish chose to attend the Utah Study Tour in August 2024 as part of her scholarship, gaining invaluable insights into the industry.

In her scholarship application, Bish highlighted the instrumental role the NSI and Women in Stone played in her development at DuBois Granite & Quartz and preparing her for future leadership roles within her company and the broader stone industry.

“The opportunity to attend one of the events as a recipient of the Women in Stone Empowerment Scholarship would provide an educational masterclass in the stone industry,” shared Bish.

President of DuBois Granite & Quartz, Daniel B. Kohlhepp, expressed his confidence in Bish’s potential: “Joanne has demonstrated self-motivation to learn about the industry and its products while growing her role at DuBois Granite. We look forward to her taking on more leadership responsibilities in our company and witnessing her career progression in the industry.”

The scholarship, underwritten by the Natural Stone Foundation, covers all expenses for the recipient to attend one of three prime industry events. The program offers an opportunity to gain technical and practical knowledge, preparing winners like Bish for impactful leadership roles.

Northern Stone Supply Quarry, Oakley, Idaho

Holly Rohrer, Chair of the Women in Stone award and scholarship committee, praised Bish’s dedication and vision: “After meeting Joanne, we are not only impressed by her passion and dedication, but we are also confident that she will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry. It’s inspiring to witness her growth, and we are excited to support her as she taps into her full potential.”

Reflecting on her experience during the Utah Study Tour, Bish shared: “The study tour was amazing and exceeded my expectations! I’m so thankful for the opportunity to attend. My deepest gratitude to Women in Stone for making this trip possible. The views, food, and gracious hospitality in Salt Lake City all added to the trip’s overall experience. I especially enjoyed the quarry and fabrication shop tours at Valley View Granite.”

DuBois Granite & Quartz congratulates Joanne Bish on this exceptional achievement and looks forward to the continued impact of her leadership in the company and the stone industry.