President's Message
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
January 2026
Dear Club Members,
I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to once again serve as President of the AIC.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Phillip Sundquist, who led the AIC with dedication and vision over the past three years. I am delighted that Phillip will continue his service as Chair of the American Celebrations Committee.
I am fortunate to be supported by a strong and experienced leadership team—what I like to call “The A Team.” Our Vice Presidents are Mark Mason, Chris Benardis, and Paul Sobon; our Treasurer is Karl Svazas; and the Secretary position is currently open.
Much of the Club’s energy and success comes from our Committee Chairs and their dedicated members, who work tirelessly to deliver first-class events and effective communications. Our Committee Chairs are:
- Communications Committee: Nirosha Beck
- Sports Committee: Mark Mason
- Speakers Committee: Ron, Phillip, Luka, Paul
- Business Development: Paul Sobon
- Membership Committee: Chris Benardis and Anton Matusevich
- Cultural Committee: Robert Race
- Civic Concerns Committee: Peggy Brown and Mary Bernasconi
- Young Professionals: Luka Dacic
- Club Development: Ed Flaherty
- Nominating Committee: Phillip Sundquist
- Mentorship Committee: Michael Parmley
And of course, the AIC would not function without our long-time Office Manager, Ruth Dyson. I look forward to working closely with her again.
In 2026, the AIC will focus on two clear priorities:
1. Build awareness of the AIC in the Lac Léman region
We want more people to know who we are, attend our events, and join our community.
- The Communications Committee will continue to expand our presence across social media.
- We are also reviving John Silvan’s timeless motto: “Think AIC.” I encourage every member to invite friends, neighbors, colleagues, and clients to experience the Club. Each member may bring a non-member to three AIC events at member pricing, giving them a chance to discover the value of membership.
2. Deliver value to our members and corporate partners
The AIC is known for high-quality social, cultural, sports, and professional events that inform, engage, and foster meaningful connections.
- Our Speakers Program brings global and thought-provoking leaders to share insights on issues shaping the world today.
- Monthly AIC Apéros in Geneva and Morges continue to be a welcoming way to meet new friends and introduce non-members to the Club.
- Members also enjoy special discounts with selected local retailers and service providers.
- Through our membership in the Association of American Clubs (AAC), AIC members can attend events at other member clubs worldwide at member rates—an excellent way to expand both professional and personal networks.
As we move forward, we look forward to deeper engagement with our members, growing our membership and corporate partnerships, and consistently delivering value.
The AIC exists for its members, and the Executive Committee is here to serve you. As President, I am excited to work with our officers and committee chairs to make the AIC the English-language club of reference in the Lac Léman region.
I look forward to seeing you at an upcoming Club event.
Best regards,
Ron Banks
AIC President 2026
American International Club of Geneva
“Welcoming All Nationalities”
PS: Not yet a member? Or need to renew? Get in touch with us at admin@amclub.ch.