On Tuesday, June 8, 2021, nearly 60 attendees gathered virtually to help the BABCPHL celebrate their 30th Anniversary during the first of a series of three programs. Dame Karen Pierce, British Ambassador to the United Stated was the keynote speaker. Special guests included Zowie Hay, Head of North America for the Welsh Government, and the Honorable James F. Kenney, Mayor of Philadelphia.
Throughout history, the US and the UK have been bound by deep cultural, economic and political ties. The current administrations of both countries share many of the same global priorities. Speakers addressed some of the most pressing topics of our generation. They discussed how the UK and the Greater Philadelphia region are positioning themselves to lead the charge and contribute to positive change and enhanced global partnership.
Nick Lotz, BABCPHL President opened the meeting, and introduced Oliver Franklin, the 3rd British Honorary Consul serving our geography, and board member of the BABCPHL. Oliver welcomed guests and introduced the esteemed speakers, noting the momentous week of our event which coincided with President Biden’s first foreign trip during his time in office, to the UK. President Biden and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s agenda was to meet to talk about bilateral issues such as climate, trade and Northern Ireland, among other topics. This trip marked the first time the leaders of the world’s biggest economies were able to get together in person since the pandemic. Oliver noted, the BABCPHL is grateful for the strong collaborative relationship with the UK Government, and the Organization proudly supports all matters of importance, for example, climate change, and diversity, equity and inclusion, among many other policy issues. These are recurring themes the BABCPHL will be focused on during the coming weeks and months.
Howard Silverstone, BABCPHL Membership Chairman and past President, thanked the keynote speakers and special guests, and provided a wonderful recap of the BABCPHL’s 30 years of operations, spotlighting the important role of 14 presidents, a vibrant and dedicated board of directors, two executive directors, and the hundreds of programs and events we have hosted featuring royalty, dignitaries, government officials, and leading global corporate executives from both sides of the Atlantic Ocean.
To conclude the event, Jared Card, District Manager for the Mid-Atlantic Region from Penderyn Whiskey led guests through a “taste of Wales,” with a whiskey tasting. Everyone raised a glass to toast the BABCPHL’s 30th anniversary.
Special thanks and recognition to our Crown Sponsors: Forensic Resolutions and the Welsh Government; Premier Sponsor, Duane Morris; and Whiskey Sponsor, Penderyn Distillery, for supporting this special event.
Crown Sponsors (to date):
Premier Sponsor (to date):
Whiskey Sponsor:
