Current News
For Immediate Release

Philadelphia, PA - June 30, 2003 - Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/SEP) today announced the election of Mark S. Schweiker, President & CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce to its Board of Directors. The action occurred at BFTP/SEP's Meeting of the Board of Directors on Wednesday, June 25, 2003.

"The Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and Ben Franklin have enjoyed a solid partnership for many years. Mark's leadership on behalf of technology initiatives and enterprises while Governor and Lt. Governor adds new dimension and new opportunities for the Chamber and BFTP/SEP to strengthen their collaborative relationship on behalf of our region," said RoseAnn B. Rosenthal, President & CEO, BFTP/SEP.

Most recently, the Chamber and BFTP/SEP partnered to host the first Regional Presidents' Council of Colleges & Universities reception. The event provided Council members and distinguished business leaders an opportunity to meet, interact and explore prospective partnerships.

Mark S. Schweiker has served as the President & CEO of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce since February 2003. He was sworn in as the 44th Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on October 5, 2001. He also served as lieutenant governor from 1994 to 2001. Schweiker's leadership has been recognized by numerous organizations throughout the Commonwealth including the Pittsburgh Technology Council, the Chester County Chamber of Business and Industry, the Harrisburg Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Nature Conservancy, the Technology Council of Central Pennsylvania, and Citizens Against Government Waste.

Schweiker holds a master's degree in administration from Rider University and a bachelor of science from Bloomsburg University.

Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania (BFTP/SEP) is dedicated to growing the region through science, technology and entrepreneurship. Now commemorating 20 years of innovation excellence, Ben Franklin provides entrepreneurs and established businesses the capital, talent, and expertise they need to compete. Like its namesake, Ben Franklin invests in, builds upon and delivers solutions that grow communities and create new wealth by supporting today's technological ideas and tomorrow's scientific discovery.