2017 Global Ideas Summit and Annual Globy Awards Ceremony

On December 11th 2017, Global Philadelphia Association hosted its Annual Meeting Global Ideas Summit & Globy Awards Ceremony. GPA members and guests gathered in celebration of Global Philadelphia’s work in 2017, as well as recognizing 5 individuals for their outstanding work in advancing the global heritage of Philadelphia. The occasion began with the Year In Review from GPA Executive Director Zabeth Teelucksingh, in which the successes of the implementation of the World Heritage Strategic Plan were outlined, as well as that of the GlobalPhilly 2017 Expo. Mrs. Teelucksingh also presented Dr. Cecelia Sagawa Seigle, Professor Emerita at the University of Pennsylvania, as the newest member of the World Heritage Society.

GPA Chairman of the Board of Directors John Smith then presented where GPA will go in 2018. In particular, he outlined the new categories of interest that the World Heritage Strategic plan will be condensed to, in order to even further ensure the success of its implementation.

After a brief luncheon, a panel discussion began regarding “The Role of Cities in International Relationships”.  Moderated by Craig Snyder, President of the World Affairs Council, the panel included Harold Epps, Director of Commerce of the City of Philadelphia, and Sanjoy Chakavorty, Professor of Geography and Urban Studies at Temple University. The stimulating conversation covered the role of not only the benefits of cities becoming more international and how a city could achieve this status, but also how Philadelphia’s World Heritage City designation could factor into this as well.

After some brief remarks from Mayor Jim Kenney recognizing the importance of maintaining the growing international status of Philadelphia and GPA’s involvement in that work, the Globy Awards began. Chellie Cameron, CEO of the Philadelphia International Airport and the Northeast Philadelphia Airport was first to be recognized for her outstanding role in Corporate Leadership, and the role the PHL Airport carries in particular in positioning Philadelphia abroad.

Next, Tiffany Chang Lawson was recognized for her role in Community Leadership. Ms. Lawson serves as the Executive Director of Governor Tom Wolf’s Commission on Asian Pacific-American Affairs, and has been recognized throughout her career as a role model for exceptional community service. Following this, Executive Director of the Preservation Alliance Paul Steinke was recognized for his Leadership in the field of promoting Heritage, which has been continually praised for in his roles at Reading Terminal Market, and the University City and Center City Districts as well.

Deborah Diamond, President of Campus Philly, was also recognized for her exceptional work in Educational Leadership. With her work in Campus Philly, the network between colleges and universities in the region has grown exponentially, which only serves to push Philadelphia further in its national and international identity. Finally, the Lifetime Achievement award was given to Christiaan Morssink, Executive Director of the United Nations Association of Greater Philadelphia. Christiaan has spent his entire career working not only in the field of reporting, but also activism and the support of good governance as well.

Following this, John Smith unveiled the new World Heritage City signage project and its promotional hub in Suburban Station in Center City.

Photos of the event can be found here.