Peter Smitham to Chair The Atlantic Philanthropies Board, Succeeding Fritz Schwarz
Resource type: News
The Atlantic Philanthropies |
HAMILTON, BERMUDA, June 28, 2011 – The Board of Directors of The Atlantic Philanthropies announced today that Frederick A.O. “Fritz” Schwarz has chosen not to seek a further term as Board Chair, a role he has held since June 2008. Peter Smitham was elected to succeed him as Chair, effective July 1.
“It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of The Atlantic Philanthropies Board for the last three years. I am extremely proud of the Foundation’s work in that period (as well as historically) on grants that serve the interests of social justice and human rights,” Mr. Schwarz said. “As Atlantic enters its final years of grant making, I believe the time is right for a change in Board leadership.”
Mr. Smitham said, “It’s a great honor to be elected Chair and to succeed Fritz, who has worked tirelessly on behalf of the Foundation and has been an important, valued contributor to Atlantic as both a longtime Board Member and then as Chair. I have deep respect for Atlantic’s mission and Founding Chairman Chuck Feeney’s incredible act of generosity and unique commitment to Giving While Living. I am grateful for this opportunity to lead the Foundation’s work in its remaining years to improve the lives of disadvantaged and vulnerable people.”
The Board reaffirmed its commitment to Mr. Feeney’s philosophy of Giving While Living and that Atlantic’s historic core program themes and existing geographic locations, together with Founding Chairman initiatives, will remain the basis for future grant making and operations.
“I’m pleased that Peter, who has been a terrific colleague and dedicated Director for eight years, will be taking up the reins as Chair,” Mr. Schwarz added. “Atlantic has a very hardworking, caring Board, and Peter will be an excellent leader. I look forward to being part of Atlantic’s work going forward.”
About the Atlantic Philanthropies
The Atlantic Philanthropies are dedicated to bringing about lasting changes in the lives of disadvantaged and vulnerable people. Atlantic makes grants through its four programme areas – Ageing, Children & Youth, Population Health, and Reconciliation & Human Rights – and through Founding Chairman grants. Programmes funded by Atlantic operate in Australia, Bermuda, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, South Africa, the United States and Viet Nam.