This year, the World Trade Center Tacoma recognizes George Russell of the Frank Russell Company for his efforts to facilitate and explore investment opportunities in developing countries. Through these economic advances, he creates and promotes peace and stability.
The World Trade Center Tacoma will honor Russell by naming him to the World Trade Center Associations Book of Honor during the June 12 World Trade Center Association Day.
In 1990, George founded Russell 20-20, a non-profit group of 20 pension plan sponsors and 20 money managers, which today represents $8 trillion in investment capital.
The groups early exploration of emerging financial markets such as Eastern Europe, the former Soviet Union, China, and India has significantly enhanced knowledge and investment strategies for its members.
In 1999, its focus was broadened to include all developing countries. At the same time, the Russell EMPulse series of interview reports on emerging markets was introduced, to encourage meaningful dialogue between Russell 20-20 members and senior government and private sector leaders in developing countries.
Currently, George is Chairman of the Board of Directors of The National Bureau of Asian Research, a nonprofit, nonpartisan institution that conducts advanced research on policy-relevant issues in Asia and the former Soviet Union. He is co-chairman of the Board of the EastWest Institute, along with Martti Ahtisaari, former President of Finland. George is also a Trustee of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.