TWG 2021 Board Undergoes Leadership Changes
The International World Games Association has learned about leadership changes within the board of The World Games 2021 Birmingham Foundation. The organizers of the 11th edition of the multi-sports-event in Birmingham announced on Thursday that Edgar Welden has decided to retire from his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Jonathan Porter, Vice President of the Birmingham Division of the Alabama Power Company (APCO), has been named as Welden’s successor, and assumes this role and corresponding responsibilities immediately.
Before retiring, Welden welcomed the addition of two more new board members chosen for their impact as community leaders: Leroy Abrahams of Regions Bank and Scott Adams of Protective Life Corporation. Mr. Welden explained his decision by stating: “The planning and organization for The World Games are now at a crossroads. I am 73 years old and it is time for me to retire. I believe it is vital to the success of the board’s goals that we continue to move forward with an energetic group of leaders in place that can see us through the 2021 event.” Mr. Welden also offered special thanks to board members Marc Tyson, David Benck, Scott Myers and Bob Humphrey for their hard work and service over the past two years.
“I look forward to the leadership and proven community spirit each of us as new board members will lend to The World Games 2021 efforts moving forward,” said Edgar Welden’s successor Jonathan Porter. “Edgar has set the bar extremely high, and we will work diligently to make him and the City of Birmingham proud over the next five years.”
On behalf of The World Games family IWGA President José Perurena thanked Edgar Welden for his tremendous work and said: “We are full of respect for his decision to step down after more than two years at the head of the team which has brought our Games to Birmingham.” José Perurena welcomed Jonathan Porter as the new Chairman: “I am convinced that he will continue the good work already done by the Foundation. We are looking forward to cooperating with the new board. We will support Jonathan Porter and his team in every possible way to achieve the goals set by Mr. Welden when bidding for The World Games in 2021.
Birmingham was named host of The World Games 2021, an international multi-sport event, in January 2015. The World Games take place every four years in the year following the Olympic Games and showcase more than 25 unique sports. Approximately 4,500 athletes and officials from more than 100 countries will compete for the gold medals. In addition to worldwide recognition, hosting the Games is estimated to generate a $250 million economic impact for the city and the state.