1996 was a year marked by great triumphs and great loss. The momentum from the first few years continued as ma barreled through the 90s and took the digital age by storm–launching their first website in this year (www.marketamericausa.com). Market America Convention attendees signed the “Declaration of Financial Independence,” and ma was officially a One-to-One Marketing company.
But we also lost one of the true pioneers of Market America, Executive Vice President Jerry Siciliano.
If you knew Jerry, chances are you would never forget his huge smile and warm heart. People who have been a part of Market America since the beginning reminisce of their fond memories of Jerry. “He was the guy you wanted to be around. He always gave you a hug and made you smile,” recalls Brandi Quinn, Vice President of Operations.
As Executive Vice President of Market America, Jerry Siciliano was a visionary who was present at the founding and forefront of ma. His passing in 1996 was felt by all throughout the company, but his legacy continues to be carried forward to this day. On remembering Jerry, Marty Weissman, Executive Vice President, states that, “Jerry brought heart to Market America, and his memory will live on forever.”
If you’ve been to one of Market America’s World Conferences in Miami, you’ve heard of the Jerry Siciliano award, which is presented to an Independent Distributor who exhibits these exemplary traits:
- Clear vision
- Demonstrates belief, loyalty, respect, credibility and love of the Market America opportunity
- Helps motivate followers to believe in their dreams and to work hard to overcome obstacles that are in their way
Jerry’s contributions will continue to be the legacy of Market America. Each year at World Conference, we will all remember Jerry and the impact he continues to have on our roles in the Market America family—UnFranchise® Owner, Shop Consultant, employee, preferred customer. In our own roles, we all carry a little piece of Jerry’s legacy with us.