Jewelers of America (JA), a leading trade association for the fine jewelry sector, has proudly announced the recipients of its 2026 scholarship initiatives. These include the newly launched Nina Pugliese Memorial Scholarship, established in collaboration with Henne Jewelers, alongside the ongoing Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship and other Jewelers of America scholarship programs. These endeavors collectively aim to bolster professional development and attract emerging talent into the intricate world of jewelry craftsmanship.

Details of the Scholarship Awards

The Nina Pugliese Memorial Scholarship honors Nina Pugliese's four decades of dedication at Henne Jewelers. In its inaugural year, this scholarship provides financial aid to students and existing jewelry professionals seeking to enhance their expertise through education and specialized training. A committee comprising representatives from Jewelers of America, Henne Jewelers, and the Pugliese family meticulously selected the first group of recipients. More than $10,000 was awarded to the inaugural scholars of the Nina Pugliese Scholarship:

• Tiana M. Camarillo from Laredo, TX, who will pursue studies at the Gemological Institute of America.
• Audriana Osborne from Montgomery, AL, also attending the Gemological Institute of America.
• Janice Kreis from New York, NY, enrolled at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

John Henne, owner of Henne Jewelers, expressed immense pride, stating that the selected individuals exemplify the passion and creativity Nina Pugliese embodied, and that the scholarship serves as a lasting tribute to her remarkable career, nurturing the next generation of jewelry professionals.

Now in its third year, the Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship, developed in partnership with the Holtzman family of CD Peacock in Chicago, focuses on cultivating new talent in the bench jeweler profession. A specialized JA Scholarship Committee, including JA staff and Board members, as well as the Holtzman Review Committee, chose this year's recipients. The combined $10,000 in awards went to:

• Samuel J.A. Zampelli from Maspeth, NY, attending the Fashion Institute of Technology.
• Kylie Weinzierl from Revere, MS, enrolled at the North Bennet Street School.
• Noa Bejar from San Juan, PR, pursuing studies at the Savannah College of Art and Design.
• Anthony J. Lindwedel from St. Louis, MO, participating in the Stuller Bench Jeweler Workshop.

Steven Holtzman, Vice Chairman of CD Peacock, emphasized his parents' belief in the critical importance of craftsmanship and the scholarship's role in preserving the art of jewelry making and repair by supporting aspiring bench jewelers.

Furthermore, Jewelers of America's broader scholarship programs distributed over $22,000 to employees from numerous JA member stores, facilitating their participation in industry diploma, professional development, and certification initiatives. David Bonaparte, President & CEO of Jewelers of America, highlighted the organization's dedication to advancing industry professionalism and acknowledged the invaluable collaboration with the Holtzmans and Henne Jewelers in preparing future jewelers.

The announcement of these scholarships demonstrates a robust commitment to education and skill development within the jewelry industry. By investing in individuals, Jewelers of America and its partners are not only honoring legacies but also actively shaping a more skilled and professional future for the entire sector. This proactive approach ensures that the intricate crafts of gemology and jewelry making continue to thrive, attracting and retaining passionate individuals dedicated to excellence.