WATERVILLE — Nikia Levesque, Day’s Jewelers’ vice president of marketing, was named as one of the recipients of Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 in Jewelry Retail list.

Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40, which was launched in 2022, is a recognition program that celebrates young professionals who exemplify leadership skills and a commitment to elevating jewelry retail for tomorrow’s consumers.

Levesque began her career at Day’s Jewelers in 2013, working as a seasonal sales associate. In 2019, Levesque completed an internship with the merchandising department, and in 2020, accepted the position of marketing coordinator in the corporate office in Waterville. Levesque then obtained the position of marketing manager in 2021, and then the vice president of Marketing in 2022 when former owner Jeff Corey retired from the role, according to a news release from Amelia Tuttle, webstore manager.

“Jewelers of America’s 20 Under 40 in Jewelry Retail list was designed to recognize young and talented individuals in all facets of the retail jewelry industry,” said Jewelers of America President and CEO David Bonaparte.

A panel of industry judges reviewed nominees from JA retail members across the country and had the difficult tasks of narrowing the applications down to the 20 individuals who best embody an ability to lead, innovate and improve a jewelry store’s success while adhering to professional ethics.

Of the election, Levesque said, “I am honored to be selected as one the 20 Under 40 recipients. The sixteen-year-old me would never have guessed I’d be where I am today, but I’m proud to show her how far I’ve come. I’m excited to enact change and progress in our industry for generations to come.”