LETTER FROM THE FOUNDER
Welcome to the Newport Global Summit, where legacy, knowledge, and purpose converge. For the past 15 years, this summit has facilitated the foundations for lasting business relationships and friendships. Newport Global Summit Inc., the organizer of the Newport Global Summit, is a Rhode Island nonprofit corporation formed on June 12, 2024, with a 501(c)(3) status pending.* As the Founder of this transformative gathering, I am honored to share with you the journey that has brought us to this pivotal moment.
I spent my career in business and investment, inspired by generations of great business leaders I have had the privilege of knowing. Among them was my grandfather and great mentor, Forrester (Tim) Clark, who served as the CEO of HC Wainwright & Company, where I built the foundation of my business career.
Brewster Benjamin Jennings, my step-grandfather, was Chairman of Sacony Vacuum (Standard Oil of New Jersey). He had a close friendship with Ibn Saud and his translator, Suliman Olayan, who began his career at Sacony Vacuum. They identified with each other, and the foundation of personal relationships was central to forming the critical alliance between the US and Saudi Arabia during World War II.
Several prominent Newport families also have historical ties to the Standard Oil companies and ARAMCO. Honoring our history and our roots together, the NGS journey began. The summit was inspired by this legacy of deep personal friendships between leaders at the core of global partnerships. It seeks to create an environment where new foundations of trust and alignment can be formed for prosperity and to strengthen the human family.
Roots and Togetherness
In the wake of financial crises and amidst chaos, the Newport Global Summit emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience. In 2009, it began as a US-Arab Leadership Retreat, which I spearheaded with the support of my fellow ABANA Board of Directors members. The retreat's vision was to bring together leaders from the US and the Middle East to engage in dialogue and explore The Way Forward. The Summit, in its current iteration, builds on this foundation while prioritizing global alignment and investing in young leaders.
Rebuilding Trust and Fostering Dialogue
In times of uncertainty, we endeavored to rebuild trust and reignite dialogue. We united influential individuals without rigid structures, fostering a sense of togetherness and purpose. The profound impact led to business, investment, and a convergence of leadership and purpose. The Summit continues bringing global and rising leaders together, supporting future synergies and integration.
In times of uncertainty, we endeavored to rebuild trust and reignite dialogue. We united influential individuals without rigid structures, fostering a sense of togetherness and purpose. The profound impact led to business, investment, and a convergence of leadership and purpose.
A Commitment to Collaboration
My deep-seated belief in the power of collaboration has driven me throughout this journey. As we embark on a new chapter each year, we embrace the mystery and diversity that define our community. Together, we create something extraordinary where everyone participating in the Summit has a stake in our collective success and continued collaboration.
A Work of Art
The Newport Global Summit is more than just an event—it is a work of art. I am dedicated to bringing people together as a community and providing educational and enriching experiences. This event is a testament to my passion for entrepreneurship and connecting individuals to positively impact an ever-changing world.
Building Lifelong Relationships
I am immensely proud to connect young innovators with seasoned business leaders, fostering learning, growth, collaboration, and mentorship opportunities. Through the Summit, we have forged friendships that transcend borders and industries, transforming our community into a family of like-minded individuals and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.
A Unique Opportunity
The Newport Global Summit offers a unique opportunity to build a foundation for incredible networking and relationships. We build lifelong business relationships and friendships in an environment that inspires creativity and innovation, driving positive change and impact. Newport Global Summit is an open canvas, a work of art shaped by all participating. Inspired by the majestic setting in Newport, Rhode Island, imbued with history and Gilded Age mansions by the sea, we exchange knowledge and discover opportunities. The magic unfolds.
In closing, I sincerely thank you for participating in this remarkable journey. This Newport Global Summit is a legacy we have built together.
Warm regards,
Katharine (Kitty) B. Cushing President, Newport Global Summit, Inc.
* After 501(c)(3) status approval, the Summit’s non-profit status will be effective retroactively beginning June 14, 2024.