(PRESS RELEASE) ROYAL OAK, MI — Gem Legacy, a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to colored gemstone mining communities, announces Peggy Jo Donahue has been added to its Advisory Board.
Donahue, former editor-in-chief of both JCK and Professional Jeweler magazines, will focus her efforts on social media, strategic planning, and messaging to the industry. She was also public affairs director for both Jewelers of America and MJSA, where she worked extensively on responsible jewelry initiatives. Donahue has volunteered her time on behalf of the Diamond Development Initiative (DDI), Women’s Jewelry Association, and Ethical Metalsmiths. She is currently the owner of Peggy Jo Donahue, Writer, a business that supplies writing and editing services to a variety of clients throughout the jewelry supply chain.
Gem Legacy’s Advisory Board guides Executive Director Roger Dery on communications, public relations, and initiative planning. Donahue will join Chris Clover of Field’s Jewelers, Ben Smithee of The Smithee Group, and Monica Stephenson of Anza Gems and idazzle, on the board.
“We’ve asked Peggy Jo to join us because we know her passionate heart, extensive communications experience, and long history advocating for responsible business practices in the jewelry supply chain,” says Dery. “We are thankful to have people working alongside us who are committed to Gem Legacy’s vision. With them driving the mission of Gem Legacy, we believe our desire to see gems change the world will come to fruition.”
“I’m particularly appreciative of efforts that empower artisanal miners,” says Donahue. “Gem Legacy does this via support for vocational training and entrepreneurial initiatives. The organization also makes a real effort to focus on women entrepreneurs and contributes to the education and lifting up of children, in the communities where gems are mined in East Africa. These are particularly meaningful issues for me. I can’t wait to get started supporting its work.”
For more information or to donate, please email info@gemlegacy.org or visit gemlegacy.org. To learn more, follow Gem Legacy on Instagram @thegemlegacy and on Facebook @thegemlegacy.