Jewelry industry veterans Lisa Schoening and Becka Johnson Kibby have been named co-presidents of the Women’s Jewelry Association Los Angeles Chapter for 2009-2010.

Both longtime WJA-Los Angeles members, Schoening and Johnson Kibby assume co-president duties immediately. Outgoing co-presidents, Rossana Aguilar and Mary Todd-McGinnis will remain active members of WJA-LA in board and advisory roles.

Schoening was, until recently, an instructor at the Gemological Institute of America’s Los Angeles branch, and has taught at GIA’s campuses in California, New York, and Italy for nearly 18 years. She’s played an active role in developing and teaching classes in sales and gemology for jewelry industry professionals at trades shows across the country. She is currently teaching at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising.

Schoening earned her Graduate Gemologist diploma in 1983 and worked for an independent retailer in Los Angeles before joining GIA in 1990. In 2003 she earned a Master’s degree in Adult Education from Britain’s Open University. She is also an AGS Certified Gemologist. WJA presented her with a 2007 Shining Star Award in recognition of her dedication and contribution to the Los Angeles Chapter where she has been event chair for the past four years. 

Johnson Kibby is an independent jewelry educator, as well as a full time training manager with Robbins Bros., World’s Biggest Engagement Ring Store. Johnson Kibby presents specialized training in the areas of selling skills, jewelry product knowledge, communication, and retail management. Her 17 years of experience includes training and management positions.

Johnson Kibby is a Graduate Gemologist and worked as an instructor at GIA. She has conducted seminars and training programs for retail jewelers across the United States and internationally.

“We are eager to have volunteer help from new members on various committees in order to implement a full venue of programs throughout 2009 and 2010,” said Schoening and Johnson Kibby in a joint statement.

Anyone interested in volunteering their services should e-mail info.wjala@gmail.com or call the WJA Los Angeles Chapter Hotline at (310) 842-6446.

For more information on the WJA-Los Angeles Chapter, call (310) 842-6446, or visit its new local Web site at http://www.wja-losangeles.memberlodge.com, or visit www.womensjewelry.org to inquire about membership.

Caption:
WJA-LA Co-presidents Becka Johnson Kibby (left) and Lisa Schoening. Photo by Avi Roth.

JCK