The Consolidated Jewelers Association of Greater New York Inc. (CJA) sadly announces the passing of past president and executive director Dennis Schonborn .

Schonborn grew up in the jewelry business, working alongside his parents in their store on Staten Island and later taking over the business. He served as president of the CJA from 1986 to 1993, and as executive director from 1993 to the present. During his tenure, the association grew in size and stature, and Schonborn presided over meetings on topics ranging from security problems to diamond enhancement. He also served on the Advisory Board of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Metro New York and was instrumental in having the Jewelers Association’s Dinner Dance benefit the foundation. When Schonborn left the store on Staten Island, he went on to manage the jewelry department at Bloomingdale’s and at Ross Simons in New Jersey.

Schonborn is survived by his wife, Valerie, and a large extended family.