Diamond Council of America Names Treasurer, Director

The Diamond Council of America (DCA) has elected Julie Keeney of Fred Meyer Jewelers as its secretary and treasurer and Mike Blank of Riddles Jewelers as director.

“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 Terry Chandler, CEO of the nonprofit organization, which provides distance education for the jewelry industry.

Keeney, vice president of sales at Fred Meyer Jewelers, supports the company’s e-commerce, merchandising, marketing and human-resources departments. She has been with the retailer for 10 years. She previously held several management and executive positions within the jewelry industry.

Blank is director of operations and training for Riddle’s Jewelry, where has worked for more than 35 years. During that time, the chain has expanded from 14 stores to more than 60 stores.

The DCA executive board also comprises chairman Chuck Cuba of Iowa Diamond and vice chairman David Bonaparte of Jewelers of America (JA).

Image: Julie Keeney (left) and Mike Blank. (DCA)