The World Pension Forum mourns the loss of our founder Philip Schaefer, who passed away on May 7, 2020 in New York City at the age of 79.

Philip's early experiences in the Peace Corps after graduating from Antioch College in ‘69 instilled in him a spirit of justice & equity. This inspired his vision for a community aligning investment with ethics. For over 30 years, the World Pension Forum has carried forth Philip's mission of engaging extraordinary minds to direct capital towards building a more equitable world.

Under Phillip’s leadership, the World Pension Forum was able to lead delegations of institutional investors at many turning cultural & historical turning points during Phillip’s life: the transition of the former Soviet States to open economies, the end of Apartheid in South Africa, the handover of Hong Kong, the restoration of diplomatic relationships with Cuba, and historic accords in the Middle East.

Philip's warmth, wisdom and dedication profoundly touched the people who worked with across three decades. He is survived by two sons, Ari and Jonas; a granddaughter, Jacqueline; and a brother Richard.

See full obituary here