Newport Global Summit Appoints Philip K. Howard, Henry (“Harry”) Davison, and Carolyn Rafaelian to its Board
DISTINGUISHED LEGAL REFORM ADVOCATE, TRUSTED WEALTH‑MANAGEMENT EXECUTIVE, AND ICONIC RHODE ISLAND ENTREPRENEUR JOIN NGS’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEWPORT, RI, January 18, 2026 — Newport Global Summit (NGS) today announced the appointment of Philip K. Howard, Henry (“Harry”) Davison, and Carolyn Rafaelian to its Board of Directors, marking a significant expansion of leadership as NGS strengthens its mission of legacy, knowledge, and purpose.
“Philip, Harry, and Carolyn are visionary leaders who each bring an extraordinary blend of expertise, perspective, entrepreneurial spirit and heart,” said Katharine (Kitty) B. Cushing, Founder & President of NGS. “Their combined experience—from legal reform and fiduciary stewardship to innovative entrepreneurship and cultural heritage—will deepen the impact of NGS’s global dialogue and year‑round programming.”
Philip K. Howard
Philip K. Howard is a nationally recognized advocate for legal and governmental reform, Chair of Common Good, and author of several influential books on civic responsibility, regulatory modernization, and restoring functional governance in America. His reputation as a thoughtful, nonpartisan reform voice has made him a frequent speaker at high‑level convenings, including the Newport Global Summit.
“NGS convenes conversations that matter—where leaders can engage candidly and think boldly. I’m honored to join the Board and support its mission,” Howard said.
Henry (“Harry”) Davison
Henry (“Harry”) Davison is a Managing Director at Chilton Trust, where he advises families, entrepreneurs, and foundations on long‑term wealth stewardship, philanthropy, and governance. He previously joined the NGS community as a newly invited director in 2025. His expertise in fiduciary responsibility strengthens NGS’s next phase of nonprofit development and strategic growth.
“NGS sits at the intersection of enterprise and purpose. I’m excited to help cultivate programs that foster learning, mentorship, and meaningful relationships,” Davison said.
Carolyn Rafaelian
Carolyn Rafaelian is one of Rhode Island’s most celebrated entrepreneurs, Founder of Rafaelian Inc. and the visionary behind Alex and Ani, which she launched in 2004 and grew into a billion‑dollar global brand. Raised in Cranston in an Armenian‑American family, Rafaelian developed her early skills in her father’s jewelry factory, Cinerama. Her philanthropic leadership is equally notable, with millions donated to causes supporting community well‑being and cultural heritage.
She is also the owner and steward of Belcourt of Newport, the iconic Gilded Age mansion that has served as a partner venue for NGS’s most prestigious gatherings—
“Newport is where history, creativity, and entrepreneurship come together. The Summit embodies that spirit. I’m honored to join the Board and help advance its mission,” Rafaelian said.
Advancing the Mission of Newport Global Summit
These appointments reflect the continued growth of NGS as a Rhode Island‑based, 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational organization dedicated to convening global leaders across business, culture, academia, and diplomacy. NGS programs provide high‑level dialogue, perspective‑building, and collaborative learning in historic Newport venues, including Belcourt and the Newport Art Museum.
About Newport Global Summit
Newport Global Summit is a nonprofit educational organization that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, family‑enterprise leaders, scholars, and cultural influencers to share knowledge and explore pathways to global prosperity. Founded in 2009, the Summit blends substantive discussion with relationship‑building experiences rooted in Newport’s rich historical legacy.
MEDIA CONTACT
Katharine (Kitty) B. Cushing
Founder & President, Newport Global Summit
kitty@newportglobalsummit.com • 646‑512‑3998
