AMHERST, Mass.—Florence Lombard, CEO of the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) Association, today announced that the CAIA designation, the highest standard of education in alternative investments, is the official designation of the Connecticut Hedge Fund Association (CTHFA), the voice of the Connecticut alternative investment industry.

"We are pleased that the Connecticut Hedge Fund Association, which represents some of the largest hedge funds in the world, has endorsed the CAIA designation," said Lombard. "Recognition of the CAIA brand continues to grow worldwide and this alliance will facilitate our mutual interest in promoting education and high standards of conduct in the industry."

Bruce McGuire, Founder and President of the CHFA, said: "An important part of our mission is to promote a better understanding of hedge fund and alternative investment management. The CAIA designation demonstrates knowledge essential for excellence in the field. We believe it is a must-have designation for our members."

Employees of CTHFA member companies will receive a discount on standard exam registration fees for the Level I and Level II CAIA exams. Professionals must pass both levels to qualify for the CAIA designation. The CAIA curriculum covers five core areas of alternative investments: hedge funds, managed futures, private equity, commodities, and real assets. The CAIA exams are held worldwide twice a year, making it possible for candidates to earn the designation within one year.

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About the CAIA Association
The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) Association is an independent, not-for-profit global organization committed to education and professionalism in the field of alternative investments. Founded in 2002, the Association is the sponsoring body for the CAIA designation, the alternative investment industry's only specialized educational standard. Recognized globally, the designation certifies one's mastery of the concepts, tools, and practices essential for alternative investment practitioners and promotes adherence to high standards of professional conduct. For more information, visit caia.org.

About Connecticut Hedge Fund Association
CTHFA is the voice of the Connecticut alternative investment industry. Its members are professionals in hedge funds, funds of funds, and managed futures funds, as well as academics and service providers. Established in 2004, CTHFA has grown into the leading regional hedge fund association in the U.S. CTHFA and its partners produce an acclaimed symposium series and host the annual Global Alpha Forum conference in Greenwich. CTHFA is headquartered in Fairfield County, CT. For more information, please visit www.cthedge.org.