JA Announces Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship Winners

education program.

New York—Jewelers of America (JA) has announced the three winners of its Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship and the recipients of its scholarship programs for 2025.

Now in its second year, the Seymour & Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship supports bringing new talent into the bench jeweler profession.

The three recipients are Baylor Adams, who studies at the New Approach School for Jewelers; Jasmine Barros, who attends North Bennet Street School; and Gabriella Badami, who goes to the Savannah College of Art and Design.

The program awarded a total of $15,000 toward the students’ tuition at an accredited bench jeweler or metalsmith education program.

Recipients were selected by the JA Scholarship Review Board, which consists of staff and members of JA’s Board of Directors, and the Holtzman Review Committee.

After relaunching in 2024, JA and the Holtzman family reported an increase in interest and applicants for the scholarship. 

"My mother, Evelyn Holtzman, is again proud to provide three recipients the Seymour and Evelyn Holtzman Bench Scholarship,” said Steven Holtzman, vice chairman of CD Peacock.

“This scholarship reflects our family's commitment to supporting the future of bench jewelers and our industry."

JA has also awarded 23 scholarships as part of the JA Scholarship Program for 2025.

An additional $27,000 was given toward award programs and certifications at educational providers including the American Gem Society, Diamond Council of America, Gemological Institute of America, and National Association of Jewelry Appraisers.

JA scholarships support those seeking industry diplomas, professional development, and certification programs.

Recipients of the scholarships must work at a JA member store and be at least 18 years old.

“Finding qualified and professional bench jewelers is one of the biggest challenges our industry is facing,” said David Bonaparte, president and CEO of JA.

“These scholarship programs give students a leg-up on pursuing bench and other jewelry education and eventually their dreams.”

For more information, visit the JA website or contact JA’s Member Services at 800-223-0673.