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. 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 the world of business and investment, inspired by generations of great business leaders I have had the privilege to know. 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 with his translator, Suliman Olayan, who began his career at Sacony Vacuum. They identified with each other, and it was the foundation of personal relationships that was central to forming the critical alliance between the US and Saudi Arabia during World War II.
I discovered 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.
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.
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.
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 program has a stake in our collective success.
A Work of Art
The Newport Global Summit is more than just an event—it is a work of art. Inspired by my family history in Newport, where my grandfather, Howard Gardiner Cushing, left his mark as an impressionist painter, I am dedicated to bringing people together as a community. This event is a testament to my passion for entrepreneurship and connecting individuals to impact an ever-changing world positively.
Building Lifelong Relationships
I am immensely proud to connect young innovators with seasoned business leaders, fostering learning, growth, and collaboration opportunities. Through the Summit, we have forged friendships that transcend borders and industries, transforming our community into a family of like-minded individuals.
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 Founder, Newport Global Summit