New York, NY – Diamond Council of America (DCA), a non-profit organization that provides quality, affordable distance education and the opportunity to earn professional certifications in diamonds, colored gemstones, and fine jewelry sales, has announced that President & CEO Terry Chandler will retire from his position on December 31, 2025. Chandler, who has led the organization with distinction, has played a pivotal role in advancing DCA’s mission and strengthening educational opportunities within the jewelry industry.
Since assuming leadership, Chandler has been instrumental in expanding DCA’s reach and influence, enhancing its certification programs, and fostering industry-wide collaboration. Under his guidance, the organization has continued to serve as a leading provider of gemological education, empowering professionals across the jewelry retail sector.
“Terry Chandler’s dedication and leadership have been invaluable to the Diamond Council of America,” says Jennifer Hammond, Chair of the DCA Board of Directors. “His commitment to retail jewelers by providing affordable jewelry education has left a lasting impact on retailers across the country and we are deeply grateful for his contributions.”
Terry Chandler’s began his career in retail jewelry as a trainee for what was then a small family-owned chain of four jewelry stores Michelson Jewelers. During his forty-four year tenure, he was a store manager, supervisor, Senior Vice President, and partner, in the chain that grew to twelve stores. He joined DCA as President and CEO in 2001 and has been instrumental in the growth of the organization.
“Diamond Council of America has been a huge part of who I am for decades. We have a lot of exciting developments taking place later this year and I know they will help ensure that DCA will continue to be successful for decades more to come. I am so thankful to the DCA Board of Directors, our members, my team, and Jewelers of America for their part in making DCA what it is today,” says Terry Chandler.
The DCA Board of Directors has undergone a formal succession process to identify Chandler’s successor and ensure a seamless transition upon his retirement. This process was conducted with careful consideration to uphold the organization’s mission and maintain its commitment to serving the jewelry industry with excellence. The successor will be announced in the coming months.