MJSA Press Room

Providence, RI–On March 1, Manufacturing Jewelers & Suppliers of America (MJSA) presented a check for over $27,000 to the Jewelers Charity Fund (JCF) at the association’s Centennial Kick-off Gala. The Gala, which was held at the famous Copacabana nightclub In New York City, celebrated MJSA’s 100th anniversary with world-class cuisine and live music.

“ MJSA is so proud that we could provide a forum to raise funds for JCF and its recipient charities,” said MJSA President/CEO James F. Marquart. “The contribution serves as a testament to the influence MJSA has had in bringing the industry together over the past 100 years. Whether it be for a charitable cause as with JCF, or to advvance the jewelry industry as a whole, MJSA and our members are stronger together.”

Serving as the industry’s charity, JCF has donated $6.5 million to fund life saving programs since 1999 through its recipient charities: St. Jude’s Children Hospital, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation-Glaser Pediatric Research Network. JCF Executive Director Pattie Light accepted the check on behalf of JCF. Haley, a young cancer patient from St. Jude’s, also attended the event and shared the positive experiences the hospital brought her in an emotional testament to the hospital’s continued success.

The donation was garnered through the support of the MJSA Centennial Tribute Journal. Commemorating MJSA’s 100-year anniversary, the book includes a brief history and photo collage depicting the association and industry over the past 100 years. It was distributed at the Gala and will also be available at the MJSA booth at industry trade shows, MJSA’s 100th Annual Meeting this November, and MJSA Headquarters in Providence, Rhode Island.

In addition, a portion of the JCF donation came from a special raffle at the Gala. Attendees had chances to win a free full-page ad in AJM Magzine or the MJSA Buyers’ Guide, and National Jeweler. Additional prizes included an official NASCAR jacket signed by the Target racing team, and a Bon Appetit Grand Prize.

The MJSA Centennial Kick-off Gala is just one of the ways MJSA is celebrating its 100th year. In January, MJSA launched a brand identity campaign with a new logo and color scheme for its print-ed products. The new MJSA Online Web site was also unveiled, providing easier navigability and access to more information. It also recognizes long-term members in the new Anniversary Clubs section.

In addition, AJM Magazine is celebrating MJSA’s centennial each month with a decade-by-decade look at jewelry manufacturing, and MJSA’s activities, over the past century. (The first installment appeared in January.) And in November, MJSA will celebrate with its 100th Annual Meeting.

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MJSA is a national jewelry trade association representing 1,500 members. MJSA’s mission is to unite and empower our members to advance the jewelry manufacturing industry. To learn more about MJSA and its trade publication, AJM Magazine, visit www.mjsainc.com and www.ajm-magazine.com.