Adolf Ogi joins Stanford Financial Group’s International Advisory Board
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands - (April 8, 2008) – Stanford Financial Group announced today the appointment of former President of Switzerland, Dr. h.c. Adolf Ogi, to its International Advisory Board, effective April 1, 2008.
Mr. Ogi’s extraordinary career has led to important advances in politics, business, economic issues, sport, and philanthropic efforts. His European expertise and global perspective align with the Stanford group of companies which is expanding its presence worldwide.
“We could not have found a better partner to join our International Advisory Board than Adolf Ogi. Mr. Ogi embodies Stanford’s commitment to maintain a sense of purpose in our work and to pursue excellence in everything we do,” said Sir Allen Stanford, Chairman of Stanford Financial Group.
As the Special Adviser on Sport for Development and Peace to the Secretary General of the United Nations (2001 to 2007), Mr. Ogi is noted for promoting the importance of sports in improving human development among children living in some of the world’s most impoverished areas. Mr. Ogi also serves as Chairman of the Advisory Board of the Swiss Economic Forum and Honorary President of the Geneva Security Forum.
In regard to his role at Stanford, Adolf Ogi said “Stanford is a special organization led by Sir Allen, a third-generation family owner, focused on helping individuals plan for their future. I am proud to be involved with a financial services group which also understands the importance of improving communities through sports and philanthropy.”
Stanford Financial Group is active in promoting community advancement through sports, including revitalizing West Indies cricket through the Stanford 20/20 Tournament in Antigua and supporting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through the Stanford St. Jude Championship PGA TOUR golf tournament in Memphis.
By joining Stanford’s International Advisory Board, Mr. Ogi joins a group which is made up of other prominent individuals from Stanford’s key markets, including Mexico, Ecuador, Venezuela, and the United States.
Today, United States Virgin Islands Governor John P. deJongh, Jr., Lt. Governor Gregory R. Francis, President of the 27th Legislature of the Virgin Islands Usie R. Richards, and Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Port Authority Darlan Brin joined Sir Allen Stanford, Chairman and CEO of the Stanford Financial Group of companies, to break ground on construction of the Stanford Financial Group global management complex.
The office building will be among the first in the Caribbean to be certified according to standards set forth by LEED (”Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System™”). LEED certification is the benchmark for design, construction and operation of efficient “green” buildings. Local vendors, contractors and consultants will be used for the construction of the complex which will result in the creation of over 500 construction employment opportunities on St. Croix. A substantial number of permanent jobs will become available upon completion of the complex.