Contact: Sunny Mindel/Brenda Pérez (212) 788-2958
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today presented the fourth Historic New York City Business Award to Pfizer Inc. and its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer William C. Steere, Jr. The Award, which is sponsored by the Museum of the City of New York, recognizes a major corporation, operating in New York City, for its significant contributions to the betterment of the City and for its high standards of social responsibility and integrity for more than fifty years.
Pfizer was founded in 1849 in Williamsburg, Brooklyn by German immigrants Charles Pfizer and Charles Erhart. Initially, the company produced fine chemicals and a medicinal preparation used to combat parasitic worms. 150 years later, Pfizer has become one of the most respected pharmaceutical companies in the world. Today, Pfizer products are available in more than 140 countries.
"I want to congratulate Pfizer on its 150th anniversary for its tremendous success," the Mayor said. "This Award is an excellent way to recognize Pfizer's history of growth, integrity and wide range of philanthropic activities that have contributed greatly to New York City's quality of life.
"We are proud that, despite its worldwide impact, Pfizer has remained loyal to its New York City roots. Today, Pfizer's Brooklyn manufacturing plant is still in operation and employs 1,200 people, and its global headquarters on 42nd Street employs 3,000 people," the Mayor concluded.
Also in attendance was Senior Director of the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. David C. Clapp, who, along with the Mayor, is serving as an honorary chairman for this year's Historic New York City Business Award.
The Board of Trustees of the Museum of the City of New York selects the recipients of the Historic New York City Business Award on the recommendation of the Museum's Corporate Council.