APRIL 9, 2026
T he R i T z -C a R lT on P hiladel P hia
10 a venue of T he a RT s
Agenda
6:00 PM Cocktail Reception
7:00 PM Welcome
Holly Wade, GIC Board Chair
7:15 PM Dinner
8:00 PM Presentation of GIC’s 50th Anniversary Alexander Hamilton Leadership Award
Presented by Loretta J. Mester, Ph.D., Former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland
8:30 PM Mystery Wine Contest and Raffle Drawing
9:30 PM Conclusion
*Music provided by Kyle Almeida, Gia Angelo, Claire Coco, and Maura DiBerardinis
Founded in an era of optimism about global interdependence, the GIC has been a vital platform for thought leadership for five decades. While global structures evolve during turbulent times, the GIC’s commitment to global interdependence prevails.”
– Kathleen Stephansen, CBE
Thank you to our Gala Committee: Holly Wade, Lori Esposito Murray, Ph.D., and Irina Shaorshadze, Ph.D.
Interdependence
For five decades, GIC has provided a trusted, nonpartisan space for meaningful dialogue bridging different perspectives and disciplines.
1976
GIC’s story begins in Philadelphia during the United States Bicentennial celebrations, a moment when many were reflecting on the new world order. Our Founder, Fred Heldring envisioned making Philadelphia a truly international city. He joined with other civic leaders who chose to achieve this by promoting free trade and the globalization of capital markets, thereby creating GIC. Our founding document, the Declaration of Interdependence, was penned by renowned historian Henry Steele Commager and signed by 32 Senators and 90 members of the US House of Representatives.
2000s
GIC deepens its focus on global economic policy with programs in Santiago, Dublin, Tel Aviv, and Cape Town and expands the Paris event into an annual three-day conference.
2010s
GIC broadens its international reach with programs in Rome, Prague, Stockholm, Warsaw, Tokyo, Buenos Aires, Dubai, Accra, Shanghai, and beyond, covering topics such as post-financial crisis recovery, food and water scarcity, and regional economic systems.
Today
GIC remains more committed than ever to its mission, launching the GIC Foundation to ensure the continuation of fostering dialogue across disciplines and addressing the complexities of a highly interconnected world.
1979
GIC is officially incorporated with a mission to promote free trade, open capital markets, and facilitate global conversations on trade, finance, and economic policy.
1980s
1990s
GIC Founder Fred Heldring passes the chairmanship to William “Dunk” Dunkelberg, who helps expand GIC’s global reach by recruiting new leaders like David Kotok of Cumberland Advisors. Together, they began GIC’s international programming with a landmark meeting in Paris with the Banque de France.
2018
GIC’s College of Central Bankers is established to provide a neutral platform for former central bank leaders to share expertise on global policy challenges.
GIC co-hosts an event with the Fels Center of Government at the University of Pennsylvania and the Group of Thirty. It drew participants from five continents to tackle issues such as developing-nation debt and monetary reform, solidifying GIC’s role as a convener of high-level global discussions.
2020s
GIC adds virtual programming during the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining momentum with online events and launching new initiatives.
Alexander Hamilton Award
About the GIC 50th Anniversary Alexander Hamilton Leadership Award
This award was created especially for our milestone anniversary in the same year we commemorate our country’s 250th. This honor celebrates a U.S. leader in monetary policy who has played a significant role in demonstrating credibility, independence, and crisis management and has continued to provide longterm thought leadership on critical issues facing central banking and global monetary policy.
GIC is delighted to honor William C. Dudley, Ph.D., former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, with this special award.
Much like the award’s namesake, Dr. Dudley has demonstrated his commitment to the power of monetary policy. His 40+ year career has been marked by exceptional foresight, and steady leadership. We are proud to name him as our honoree.
Please join GIC in congratulating Dr. Dudley as the 50th Anniversary Alexander Hamilton Leadership Award recipient.
About the Awardee
William C. Dudley, Ph.D.
Former President & CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York
William C. Dudley, Ph.D., served as the 10th President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York from 2009 to 2018. In this role, he was Vice Chairman and a permanent member of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), helping guide U.S. monetary policy during a critical period for the global financial system.
Prior to becoming President, he served as Executive Vice President of the Markets Group at the New York Fed, overseeing domestic open market and foreign exchange operations and managing the System Open Market Account for the FOMC.
Before joining the New York Fed in 2007, Dr. Dudley was a partner and Managing Director at Goldman, Sachs & Co., where he served for a decade as Chief U.S. Economist. He has also held leadership roles at the Bank for International Settlements.
Dr. Dudley holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley, and a bachelor’s degree from New College of Florida.
Speakers
Loretta J. Mester, Ph.D.
GIC College of Central Bankers Fellow and Former President & CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland
Loretta J. Mester was President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland from 2014 to 2024. Prior to joining the Cleveland Fed, she had served at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, starting in 1985 as an economist, becoming senior vice president and director of research in 2000, and executive vice president and director of research in 2010. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics and Economics from Barnard College of Columbia University, and Master of Arts and Ph.D. degrees in Economics from Princeton University, where she was a National Science Fellow.
Speakers
Holly Wade
GIC Board Chair and Executive Director of the NFIB Research Center
Holly Wade is the executive director of the NFIB Research Center, where she has 18 years of experience conducting original research on the small business sector focusing on small business economic conditions, business operations, and public policy issues impacting small firms. She produces NFIB’s monthly Small Business Economic Trends publication, the Covid-19 Small Business survey series, and surveys on topics related to small business operations. She is also a frequent media spokesperson on the small business economy and related public policy issues. Since 2020, Ms. Wade has been offering a regular webinar series for small business owners nationwide, helping owners navigate through the federal loan and tax credit programs. She is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Global Interdependence Center (GIC), and a former board member of the National Association for Business Economics (NABE), where she is the co-chair of the Small Business Roundtable.
ProgramCalendar
50th Anniversary Program Calendar
February 9 The Dollar and US Exceptionalism – La Jolla, CA
February 19 9th Annual Sovereign Debt Restructuring Conference with LeBow College of Business –Philadelphia, PA
March 3 Opportunities and Challenges in a Dynamic Economic Landscape with the University of the Bahamas – Nassau, Bahamas
April 9 44th Annual Monetary & Trade Conference with LeBow College of Business – Philadelphia, PA
April 23 College of Central Bankers Executive Briefing on Central Bank Independence – Webinar
May 6-8 Central Banking Series: Paris with Banque de France – Paris, France
July 8 GIC Teton Economic Outlook – Jackson Hole, WY
October 14 GIC Houston Economic Summit: Energy, Global Trade and AI – Houston, TX
December 14-15 College of Central Bankers Symposium – New York City, NY
GIC Foundation
Strengthening Connections.
Building Global Community.
The Global Interdependence Center is pleased to announce the launch of the GIC Foundation. The mission of the GIC Foundation is to secure the long-term financial future of the GIC through strategic resource stewardship and the cultivation of endowed giving and to build and maintain a robust financial structure, ensuring the GIC’s ability to continue its vital mission.
Our goal is to position the GIC to continue to serve as a vital platform for international dialogue, policy exploration, and cooperative engagement for future generations.
For additional information, please contact Jill Fornito at jfornito@interdependence.org.
The GIC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization. Donations may qualify for immediate tax benefits.
Raffle Items
Celebrate Philadelphia 250 Value: $1,450
Donated by The Ritz-Carlton, Museum of The American Revolution, CookNSolo Restaurant Partners, Philadelphia Orchestra
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States with a weekend in the nation’s birthplace. Experience the city’s rich history, vibrant arts scene, and exceptional dining.
• Two-night stay at the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia
• Two admission tickets to the Museum of the American Revolution
• $150 Gift Card to any CookNSolo Restaurant and signed cookbook from James Beard Award Winning Chef, Michael Solomonov
• Two tickets to a select Philadelphia Orchestra concert in Marian Anderson Hall in the 2025-26 season
Beach Cottage on Long Island Sound Value: $2,000
Donated by: Lori Esposito Murray
Enjoy a two-night stay in a 3-bedroom beach cottage on the Long Island Sound in Madison, Connecticut, a quaint historic town rich with colonial and pre-colonial history. The cottage is situated on the shoreline and comes complete with kayaks and a paddleboard. Recently featured in the Netflix movie, The Noel Diaries, Madison offers miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and boating. Indulge in the town’s local cuisine, from fresh seafood to farm-to-table dining, and treat yourself to some retail therapy with a visit to one of the many unique boutiques and shops. Dates to be negotiated. Pets are not permitted.
Philadelphia Art Scene Immersion
Donated by: Philadelphia Museum of Art, Longwood Gardens, Mural Arts Philadelphia
• Two Admission Tickets to Philadelphia Museum of Art with Lunch at Stir
• Two admission tickets to Longwood Gardens
• Two tickets to the Mural Arts Philadelphia walking tour
Value: $275
Framed Map of the World Signed by the CCB Fellows Value: Priceless
Donated by: GIC
Luxury Interior Design Consultation with Michelle Wenitsky Interior Design Value: $350
Donated by: Michelle Wenitsky
Enjoy a private two-hour design consultation with Michelle Wenitsky. Whether you are planning a renovation, new build, or refresh, gain expert guidance to make confident decisions and avoid costly missteps. It is perfect for spring or summer projects.
Raffle Items
Wellness Journey Value: $1,500
Donated by: Orthodontics Limited, Embrace Dermatology, The Studio Haddonfield and DryBar Ardmore
• Illume Dental Whitening Kit from Orthodontics Limited
• Consultation and 40 Units of Botox at Embrace Dermatology with locations in Old City and Spring House
• Private Pilates or Yoga Session from The Studio Haddonfield
• Gift Card for a Blowout from The Drybar
Philly Sports Fan
Donated by: Jonathan Grode, Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia Union and Philadelphia Eagles
Value: $1,260
• Philadelphia 76ers: Two tickets in Section 112/ Row 6 at the foul line. Any Monday night game in the 2026-2027 Season
• Philadelphia Phillies: 4 Phillies tickets in Section 245/Row 6 on Thursday, May 7 at 6:40pm
• Philadelphia Union: Four Tickets plus parking for any game in the 2026 Season
• Philadelphia Eagles: Autographed 8×10 photograph of former Eagles safety, Reed Blankenship
Destination: NYC Value: $1,100
Donated by: The Hornes of Virginia
3 Night stay at the University Club of New York City. Situated in Midtown Manhattan, enjoy full use of the Club’s athletic facilities, fine restaurants, and world-premiere Library. Dates subject to availability.
Virtual Session with Psychic Medium
Donated by: Mountain Top Medium
Value: $300
Nikki Velasquez, a Chicago native who earned a master’s degree in clinical social work and previously worked as a grief counselor and in hospice care, now devotes herself to her medium practice. A session with Nikki incorporates deep, therapeutic healing between the realms, bringing comfort and solace to both those here in the physical and their loved ones in spirit.
Made in Philly Favorites
Donated by: Gentry by Jenna, Di Bruno Bros., Brixxy & Co., and Jill Fornito
Value: $350
Handmade Beaded Jewelry, Gift Card to Di Bruno Bros. with Artisanal Treats, Rival Bros. Coffee & Tea, Stateside Vodka, Spring Bees
Local Honey, Lore’s Chocolate, Philly Cheesesteak Dog Toy , and a bottle of Good Vibes Only Red Blend from Chaddsford Winery
ONE MEMBERSHIP, A WORLD OF OPPORTUNITIES
WE INVITE YOU TO
JOIN US
As a Member of the Global Interdependence Center, you are an integral part of our neutral, nonpartisan forum to expand awareness, advance shared interests, and promote social stewardship.
In addition to benefits such as premier access to GIC programs in the US, around the world, and virtually, access to the membersonly LinkedIn group, and the opportunity to contribute content to the GIC blog, GIC offers our Members access to our smaller, private roundtables held under Chatham House Rule*, and complimentary registration to GIC virtual events. GIC’s private roundtable discussions have become a hallmark of our programming, inviting Members to participate in a candid exchange of viewpoints and ideas among industry leaders on issues most relevant to the global economic environment. GIC Members contribute to our shared global reach by supporting our mission and programming.
The Global Interdependence Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and all donations and GIC membership dues are tax deductible.
BECOME A MEMBER AT
*When a meeting, or part thereof, is held under the Chatham House Rule, participants are free to use the information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor that of any other participant, may be revealed.
Live events and archived
Domestic Destinations One Day Events
Example Locations: La Jolla, Jackson Hole, Philadelphia
International/2-Day Central Banking Series Events
Example Locations: Paris, Nassau
Delegation Trips: Multiday event with private meetings, hotel, & dinner package included
Example Locations: Mexico City
Additional Benefits
Special registration pricing for member
Includes access to the conference only
Special registration pricing for member and one guest
Includes access to the conference only
Special registration pricing for member and one guest, and invitation to private welcome dinner for member and guest
Special registration pricing for member
Includes access to the conference only
Special registration pricing for member and one guest
Includes access to the conference only
Special registration pricing for member and one guest
Includes access to the conference and an invitation to private welcome dinner for member and guest
Deeply discounted registration pricing for member plus a complimentary guest, and an invitation to private welcome dinner for member and guest
Deeply discounted registration pricing for member plus a complimentary guest
Includes access to the conference, an invitation to private welcome dinner for member and guest, and access to private roundtable and day 2 dinner (when applicable)
Contributions to the GIC Blog**
Invitation, group pricing
Premier Access Ticket to Annual CCB Symposium Roundtable. Contributions to the GIC Blog**
A plan that can be curated to what the member wants based on their desired level of engagement. It requires a private consultation with the Executive Director to craft a personalized schedule of experiences. Price is determined after selections are made.
COLLEGE OF CENTRAL BANKERS SYMPOSIUM
New York City
December 14-15, 2026
December 14
Dinner and Global Citizen Award
Presentation at The Harvard Club of New York
We are delighted to announce the presentation of our 2026 Global Citizen Award to longstanding GIC Board Member, Don Rissmiller. We are pleased to recognize Don for his ongoing contributions and dedication to the Global Interdependence Center. Join us on December 14th at the Harvard Club of NY for this special celebration!
December 15
Symposium at Bloomberg Headquarters
Agenda details TBA
Warmly congratulates GIC on 50 years of bringing together diverse thought leaders and creating space to discuss critical issues facing central banking and global monetary policy.
At Cygnus, we believe in the power of purpose — to create meaningful impact in the financial lives of our clients, to cultivate a diverse and dynamic workplace, and to give back to the communities we serve. GIC reflects these same ideals of excellence, empathy, and interconnection that inspire us every day.
We are honored to be a part of GIC’s work to build a better world.
Michael Veloric proudly congratulates the Global Interdependence Center on 50 years of exceptional leadership and impact.
For five decades, GIC has brought together diverse voices to foster meaningful dialogue, advance global understanding, and shape the future of economic and monetary policy. This milestone is a testament to the vision, dedication, and collaboration of its leaders, board, and staff.
With admiration for all that has been accomplished and optimism for what lies ahead, we celebrate this remarkable legacy and the continued work of building a more connected and resilient world.
Congratulations to Global Interdependence Center, its leaders, board and staff on 50 years of accelerating success.
Here’s to many more.
Welling & Woodard, Inc
Christopher T. Lane President
San Francisco
Five decades of fostering dialogue among economists, policymakers, and global leaders stands as a testament to GIC’s enduring mission and extraordinary impact on global interdependence.
Congratulations!
Warmest congratulations to William C. Dudley on receiving the GIC Alexander Hamilton Leadership Award, a well-deserved honor recognizing his commitment to central bank credibility, independence, and thoughtful leadership through some of the most consequential moments in modern monetary policy.
Dr. George Tsetsekos
Francis Professor of Finance
Dean Emeritus
Drexel’s LeBow College of Business
governance with innovative investment strategies designed to
Our private wealth management solutions aim to simplify your time so you can pursue what truly matters to you.
RiskBridge Advisors proudly congratulates the Global Interdependence Center on its 50th anniversary.
William Kennedy, CFA CEO, Chief Investment Officer
We also extend our congratulations to William C. Dudley, Ph.D., on receiving the 50th Anniversary Alexander Hamilton Leadership Award in recognition of his distinguished career, steady leadership, and enduring contributions to monetary policy and global economic dialogue.
Contact us at: www.riskbridgeadvisors.com
Warmest congratulations, Bill Kennedy
Congratulations to the Global Interdependence Center on 50 years.
GIC’s commitment to fostering dialogue and advancing global interdependence has shaped critical conversations and strengthened connections around the world.
Here’s to continued success in the years ahead.
Congratulations to the GIC for 50 years of extraordinary work promoting peaceful and productive global interdependence.
The Hornes of Virginia
Thank
You DAVID KOTOK for Decades of GIC Support and Guidance
Sharon Javie and Bill Dunkelberg
The CFA Society of Philadelphia congratulates the Global Interdependence Center on 50 years of fostering dialogue and global connections.
THANK YOU to David Sherman and Crossing Bridge Advisors for the inaugural donation of $50,000 to the GIC Foundation.
Congratulations to the Global Interdependence Center on its 50th Anniversary.
Through the College of Central Bankers, GIC has played an important role in fostering dialogue, insight, and collaboration among central bankers and policymakers worldwide.
Best Wishes for the next fifty years.
Don Rissmiller Chief Economist Strategas
THANK YOU TO OUR RAFFLE DONORS
Thank you to the Heldring Family Trust for supporting the Global Interdependence Center
Frederick Heldring, former Chairman and CEO of the Philadelphia National Bank and former Vice Chairman of Corestates Financial Corporation, envisioned making Philadelphia a truly international city. He joined with other civic leaders who chose to achieve this by promoting free trade and the globalization of capital markets, thereby creating GIC in 1976.
We are proud to be a part of Fred’s legacy and to remember him as part of ours.
