Press Releases

DCA Announces New Board Treasurer and Director

Julie Keeney of Fred Meyer Jewelers was elected as Secretary/Treasurer and Mike Blank of Riddles Jewelers was elected as Director.

Published

1 year ago

January 26, 2023

Press Releases

Mike Blank | Julie Keeney

(PRESS RELEASE) NEW YORK — Diamond Council of America (DCA) – DCA, a non-profit organization that provides quality, affordable distance education and the opportunity to earn professional certifications in diamonds, colored gemstones and fine jewelry sales, announces new Treasurer and board member. Julie Keeney of Fred Meyer Jewelers was elected as Secretary/Treasurer and Mike Blank of Riddles Jewelers was elected as Director.

“I want to congratulate Julie for her election to Secretary/Treasurer as well as welcome Mike to the DCA Board. Their depth of retail knowledge will help DCA as it continues to grow and better serve those who need an affordable, distant education option,” says DCA President/CEO Terry Chandler.

Julie Keeney, Vice President of Sales of Fred Meyer Jewelers, supports the stores, ecommerce, merchandising, marketing, and human resources areas as the co-leader. Fred Meyer Jewelers operates 130 fine jewelry stores as well as an ecommerce website. Julie has been with the company for 10 years. Prior to joining Fred Meyer Jewelers, she held a variety of management and executive positions within the jewelry industry. She is DCA Diamond and Gemstone certified, a member of The Women’s Jewelry Association and graduate of GIA.

Mike Blank is the Director of Operations and Training for Riddles Jewelry (Riddles Group). He has been with the company for over 35 years. Mike was brought on board by the founder of Riddles Jewelry, Jess Riddle, and has shared in the growth from 14 stores to now over 60. Throughout his tenure with the company, Mike has many work and educational experiences that have helped the company grow. He credits that growth to the vision from leadership and acting on the ever changes in the jewelry industry.

The Executive Board of DCA consists of Chairman, Chuck Cuba of Iowa Diamond; Vice Chairman, David Bonaparte, Jewelers of America; and Secretary/Treasurer, Julie Keeney. Fred Meyer Jewelers.

For more information about DCA, to enroll in DCA courses or to become a member, visit here.

Related Topics: Diamond Council of America

click to Comment(Comment)

Up Next

Only Natural Diamonds Releases Winter Digital Cover With Marvel Actress Kathryn Newton

Don't Miss

HRD Antwerp Announces the Winners of the 18th HRD Design Awards at Vicenzaoro

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”