Gemological Institute of America President William E. Boyajian received the 2003 “Man-of-the-Year” award from the Consolidated Jewelers Association (CJA) of Greater New York, Inc., at a dinner and ceremony Oct. 26 at The Copacabana in New York City. It is the organization’s highest honor.

CJA was founded in 1957 and works on behalf of the jewelry industry in the Greater New York area. According to a CJA spokesperson, the event is also dedicated to helping the children served by The Make a Wish Foundation of Metro New York. Nearly $10,000 was raised on this occasion, and the CJA estimates it has raised about $98,000 cumulatively for the Foundation. As a tribute to Boyajian and to commemorate this honor, the late William Goldberg, of William Goldberg Diamonds, made a sizeable donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, according to CJA.

“It is through the commitment of our honoree, William E. Boyajian, that the story of the GIA is now told in a book entitled: Legacy of Leadership: A History of the Gemological Institute of America.” CJA President Alvin Mintz said. “The best thing we can do for ourselves is to continue our education and, to take full advantage of GIA’s products and offerings, we must be willing to educate ourselves to meet the challenges of doing business.”

In accepting the award, Boyajian remarked, “This award has special meaning to me in a year when we have just published our book [the GIA history]. When you recognize me, you really recognize GIA, so I hope you get a copy of the book and have an opportunity to read about the institution you are honoring tonight.”

Boyajian also urged the CJA members to think about their role in relation to others. “I would ask each of us to consider how we are making a difference in our workplace, in our industry, in our community, and in our family. When we make contributions that are bigger than us, the impact is greater and our time is well-spent.”

Boyajian is the second GIA recipient of this honor. GIA’s late Chairman Richard T. Liddicoat received the award in 1984.

JCK