American Swiss Foundation

The Sixty Fifth Annual Dinner of the American Swiss Foundation was held in New York on May 6, 2010.  Over 200 guests - including more than 60 Young Leaders - attended to support the Foundation and the continuation of a strong U.S. – Swiss friendship.  This year’s guest of honor was Michael Mack, CEO of Syngenta AG and Chairman of the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce, who graciously took time in his busy schedule to join us from Switzerland. 

Mr. Mack delivered a forward-thinking keynote address, discussing the future of agriculture and how Syngenta, along with 28 other global companies working with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, is looking to the future to solve problems relating to growth and sustainability as the global population continues to expand and place increasing demands on the planet’s resources (Vision 2050).  As the American CEO of a Swiss company, Mr. Mack offered an interesting perspective on not only immediate U.S. – Swiss relations, but also how the bond of our two nations fits into a global framework for the future.

Young Leader Mark W. Smith (’09) had the honor of introducing Mr. Mack.  Mr. Smith spoke about Mr. Mack’s role in the global community and his commitment to the continuation of the American - Swiss friendship.  Having met Mr. Mack during the 2009 Young Leaders Conference, Mr. Smith was also able to provide insight into Mr. Mack’s personality and his strong connection to the ideals the American Swiss Foundation works to promote.

Leading the evening’s program as Master of Ceremonies was Young Leader alumnus and Auditor of the State of New Mexico, The Hon. Hector Balderas (’09).  Mr. Balderas shared his experiences during the 2009 Young Leaders Conference and described how the Conference changed his outlook on the significance of the historic friendship between the U.S. and Switzerland, and the importance of preserving that friendship.  We are most grateful that Mr. Balderas was able to fly in from New Mexico to give his insights and keep the program running smoothly.

Dr. Lawrence Stratton (’02) started the evening with his invocation which called on all present to become ambassadors in order to build international friendships and to preserve the historical bond between the U.S. and Switzerland.  Ambassador Urs Ziswiler, who co-hosted the Dinner, spoke about the importance of cooperation between the two countries in the coming months. The Hon. Mercer Reynolds, Chairman of the American Swiss Foundation, closed the evening with remarks about his time as U.S. Ambassador to Switzerland and the importance of diplomacy in building relations between nations.

The Annual Dinner was accompanied by a Young Leaders Reunion Luncheon, hosted by Ambassador Christoph Bubb and featuring Martin Naville, CEO of the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce.

More photos coming soon!