Headlines

John Kennedy to Retire as President of JSA

He’s been with the organization for 32 years.

Published

2 months ago

March 4, 2024

INSTORE Staff

NEW YORK — John Kennedy, who has served as president of the Jewelers’ Security Alliance for 32 years, has announced his retirement, effective at the end of 2024.

Kennedy, an attorney, joined JSA in 1992 after serving as assistant commissioner of the New York City Department of Investigation. He had also held other positions in government, academia and a non-profit organization.

“JSA has never been stronger,” Kennedy said. “It has a superb Board and crime team, excellent relations with law enforcement, and a wide and effective reach to its large membership and the entire industry. JSA’s finances are solid, and its supporters are loyal and generous. This is a perfect time for me to step aside from what has been a very satisfying career.”

The organization’s board and its search committee are in the process of selecting a new JSA president, according to a press release. There have only been four JSA presidents since 1897, with an average terms of over 30 years each. JSA is a non-profit trade association providing crime prevention information and assistance to the jewelry industry.

Alan Zimmer, chairperson of JSA, said, “JSA will miss John’s steady leadership of the organization for the last 32 years. He will also be missed for his many contributions to the jewelry industry. On a personal level, I would like to thank John for his stewardship of JSA and will greatly miss John for his professionalism and friendship. We wish John all the best in his future retirement.”

Kennedy has been recognized for his many contributions to the jewelry industry and been awarded JCK’s Person of the Year in 2002; the AGS Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2008; the Gem Award for Lifetime Achievement from Jewelers of America in 2021; and the Stanley Schechter Award from Jewelers Vigilance Committee, also in 2021.

Kennedy said, “I am grateful for the unfailing industry support that I have always felt, and I look forward to staying in touch with friends and colleagues by continuing my service as Secretary of the 24 Karat Club of New York, as I have done for the past 22 years.”

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.”