Former Jewelers of America chairman of the board and executive director Michael D. Roman passed away Dec. 22, 2002, at the age of 84.

Roman joined JA in 1976, and under his leadership the association shifted its emphasis toward professional education. Roman also was involved in legislative activities on behalf of JA and the jewelry industry. Under his stewardship, JA organized a lobbying campaign that in 1993 eliminated the federal luxury tax on jewelry. Roman retired from JA on Sept. 30, 1995.

Roman served on the executive committee and was president of the U.S. delegation to CIBJO, the international jewelry confederation. He also was a member of the executive committee and board of directors of the Jewelers Vigilance Committee and served as its interim executive director; served on the board of trustees of the Joseph Bulova School, which specializes in watch and jewelry training of students with disabilities; served as chairman of the Jewelry Coordinating Committee and the Jewelers Certification Council; and served as president of the New York Sales Executive Club. Prior to his tenure at JA, Roman worked for the Bulova Watch Co. for 18 years.

In the summer of 2002, Roman was honored by the American Gem Society with a Lifetime Achievement Award, one of the industry’s highest honors, at the organization’s Circle of Distinction dinner in New York.

Roman is survived by his wife of 55 years, Aurelia; three children, Dr. Mike Roman, Dr. Laura Roman, and Lisa Roman; son-in-law McNeil Johnston and daughter-in-law Jennie; and four granddaughters.

Donations in his memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.