50^th Anniversary Testimonials

The Foundation's important contributions to American-Scottish relations were recognized in the following testimonials received on the occasion of its 50th Anniversary and Wallace Award® Gala Dinner held in New York City on October 23, 2006. Mr. Euan Baird, former Chairman of Schlumberger and following mandatory retirement from that organization now Executive Chairman of Rolls Royce PLC.

"The American-Scottish Foundation has made a significant contribution to raising the awareness of both traditional and contemporary Scotland in the United States. The Foundation has helped to make Tartan Week become the most successful promotion of Scotland overseas and its involvement in larger initiatives, such as the Scottish Coalition, has been of great benefit to Scotland" - Jack McConnell MSP, First Minister of Scotland

"In August of this year, I had the privilege of hosting a Reception in the Scottish Parliament to mark the 50th Anniversary of The American-Scottish Foundation. The evening was a success and highlighted the unique bond of friendship that exists between Scotland and America...

In the words of Woodrow Wilson, himself the grandson of a Scots Presbyterian Minister, "Every line of strength in American history is a fine line coloured with Scottish blood". It is the reason that such a friendship exists between us and why we eagerly continue today to deepen this relationship - examples being the famous Tartan Day celebrations and the efforts of societies such as The American-Scottish Foundation.

I am therefore delighted to record my appreciation of the Foundation and the work that it has done, and continues to do, for Scottish/American relations... You also play a significant role in Scotland's future, providing important links between the Scottish diaspora in the United States and the organizations back home.

On behalf of the Scottish Parliament, I would like to extend, once again, our hand of friendship and wish The American-Scottish Foundation many more successful years ahead." - Rt Hon George Reid MSP, The Presiding Officer, The Scottish Parliament

"Since its inception, the Foundation has been instrumental in strengthening the bonds that unite Scotland and the United States. Its support of numerous activities and events in our City- including the annual Tartan Day Parade - helps New Yorkers appreciate the rich traditions and history of Scottish culture. In addition, the organization does a terrific job of representing our City and its proud Scottish-American community on its regular visits to Scotland.

On behalf of the residents of New York City, I commend the Foundation on its 50 years of service to Americans and Scots around the world. We are proud to join everyone gathered in paying tribute to this tremendous organization and its outstanding contributions to our great City." - Michael R. Bloomberg, Mayor

"The American-Scottish Foundation has worked tirelessly to maintain the special relationship which exists between Scotland and America, and it is down to their hard work that the friendship continues to flourish." -Lesley Hinds, Lord Provost of Edinburgh

"We have enjoyed a wonderful relationship with the Foundation and the support it has provided over the years. From collaborating on the annual John Muir Golf Tournament, to helping restore the Robert Burns statue, to preserving the John Muir nature trail, and presenting a multitude of cultural events across the city, the Foundation has been a devoted advocate of New York City's green spaces." - Adrian Benepe, Commissioner, City of New York Parks & Recreation

"Over the years The American Scottish Foundation and The New York Public Library have had a close and warm relationship, one that I trust will be continued for years to come.

The Foundation's support of The Library has been very important to us. We appreciate your special support of our "Carnegie" branch libraries, many of which have celebrated or will be celebrating their 100th anniversaries in the near future. We never forget that Andrew Carnegie's generosity was a cornerstone in the development of The New York Public Library." - Paul LeClerc, The New York Public Library

"On behalf of Saint Andrew's Society of the State of New York, it is with great pleasure that I offer wholehearted congratulations to The American-Scottish Foundation on the occasion of its 50th anniversary." - Duncan A. Bruce, 95th President, Saint Andrew's Society of the State of New York.

"On behalf of the Officers, Directors and Members of the New York Caledonian Club, Inc., I would like to extend my warmest greetings and congratulations to the American Scottish Foundation, Inc. on the occasion of its 50th Anniversary and Wallace Award Dinner.

The City New York is indeed fortunate to have the American Scottish Foundation serving the community and I wish you and your members success in all future endeavors." - George A. Campbell, 76th Chief, The New York Caledonian Club Inc.

"The American-Scottish Foundation builds social and commercial bonds between the people of Scotland and the United States... As friends, our organizations share a steadfast belief in the fundamental Scottish values of integrity, civic responsibility and benevolence. Together, as kindred partners, we uphold these important values. It is upon these values that the Scots helped to build the American way of life." - Gus Noble, President, Illinois Saint Andrew Society

"I congratulate The American-Scottish Foundation on achieving the milestone of one-half century of dedicated service to the promotion of "all things Scottish", and with the Foundation and its members all the very best for a great many more years of noteworthy achievement and success." - Cliff Robertson, former Foundation Board Member and Vice President

Scottish Executive, October 2006

"Scotland's strategy for stronger engagement with the U.S.A"

"The escalating success of Tartan Week in New York has been due in large part to the effort of the New York based American-Scottish Foundation, which was fifty years old in 2006... "