The Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) is set to recognize Rebecca Foerster, President of Hearts on Fire North America, with its esteemed Stanley Schechter Award. This accolade, a highlight of the JVC's annual luncheon, acknowledges Foerster's significant contributions to the jewelry sector, her exemplary leadership, and her steadfast dedication to ethical practices. The ceremony, held in the vibrant heart of New York City, underscores the industry's appreciation for her impactful career.
JVC to Honor Rebecca Foerster with Prestigious Stanley Schechter Award
In a significant event scheduled for Friday, March 13, 2026, at the elegant Rainbow Room in New York City, the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) will proudly present the Stanley Schechter Award to Rebecca Foerster. As the dynamic President of Hearts on Fire North America, Foerster plays a pivotal role in leading the brand's operations across the North American continent, including its Boston, Massachusetts hub.
With a distinguished career spanning over two decades in the luxury market, Foerster brings a formidable blend of expertise encompassing merchandising, marketing, and operational strategies, coupled with an profound understanding of the U.S. jewelry landscape. Before her tenure at Hearts on Fire, she held senior leadership roles at prominent industry entities such as Alrosa USA, Rio Tinto Diamonds, Frederick Goldman, and Leo Schachter Diamonds. Her professional journey commenced in the cosmetics and global branding sectors, where she cultivated a keen insight into consumer engagement and the art of brand narrative, skills that continue to enrich her work in the realm of fine jewelry.
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Rebecca Foerster is an active and influential figure in numerous industry associations. She currently serves on the board of directors for Jewelers for Children, holds a position on the Executive Committee of Diamonds Do Good, where she also acts as a natural diamonds ambassador, and previously chaired the Board of JVC.
Sara Yood, President, CEO & General Counsel of JVC, expressed immense enthusiasm for honoring Foerster. Yood remarked, “Rebecca embodies the industry integrity and leadership values that were deeply cherished by Stanley. Her guidance was instrumental to JVC's success during my transition into a leadership role, providing strong and vocal support from both the board and the wider industry. Her profound dedication to the overall health and reputation of the jewelry industry is truly commendable.”
The Stanley Schechter Award, established in 2002, commemorates Stanley Schechter, the visionary founder of Honora Industries and an enduring icon of the jewelry industry. Schechter was renowned not only for his groundbreaking work in the pearl sector but also for his more than 50 years of unwavering commitment to upholding ethics and integrity within the industry. A lifetime member of the JVC, he served on its Board from the 1960s until 2000. The award seeks to recognize individuals who exemplify Stanley’s distinguished characteristics and values: exceptional leadership, unblemished integrity, and a fervent passion for elevating the prestige of the jewelry community both in the United States and globally.
This prestigious award to Rebecca Foerster not only acknowledges her personal achievements but also serves as a beacon, highlighting the importance of steadfast leadership and ethical commitment in shaping the future of the global jewelry trade. Her career trajectory and active involvement in industry organizations offer a compelling blueprint for aspiring leaders in the luxury sector, demonstrating how strategic vision, combined with a dedication to community welfare, can foster profound and lasting impact. This recognition reaffirms the collective responsibility of industry leaders to maintain high standards and to contribute meaningfully to the enduring legacy of the jewelry world.