Summary

Since 2017, I have been a dedicated and engaged member of the Council of the Swiss Abroad (CSA), fully committed to advancing the interests of the Swiss community abroad. I collaborate closely with CSA members, the Organization of the Swiss Abroad (OSA), key figures in Swiss government at both the national and cantonal levels, as well as Swiss embassies and consulates. My extensive experience and strong network enable me to effectively address the needs and concerns of Swiss citizens abroad. I am eager to continue this vital work and strengthen our community’s connections and influence.

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Detail

I was born in Kreuzlingen, in the canton of Thurgau, and moved to New York City in 1998. Although I have lived abroad for over two decades, I maintain close ties with my family and friends in Switzerland. 

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Since 2006, I have been deeply engaged in the Swiss community in New York, with a particular focus on the Swiss Society of New York. I served on the Board of Directors from 2006 to 2016, and as their President from 2013 to 2016. During my tenure, the Swiss Society experienced significant growth. Through targeted marketing and strategic fundraising initiatives, I helped strengthen the organization's financial stability. Additionally, the annual Swiss Ball reached unprecedented success, with record-breaking attendance and increased visibility within the community.

 

In 2017, I was elected to the Council of the Swiss Abroad (CSA), where I have been an engaged and dedicated member ever since. Over the past eight years, I have attended all CSA meetings – both in person and online – with one exception due to a family emergency. My contributions to the council go beyond attendance, I have actively engaged in and significantly contributed to its work.

 

In the fall of 2023, I also ran as a candidate in the National Council elections for the canton of Thurgau, which was a very enriching experience. You can access my SmartVote profile here.

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As the initiator and leader of the CSA working group "Lobbying & Communication," I have played a key role in establishing direct communication channels between the CSA and political representatives in Switzerland, including members of parliament, government councils, and state secretaries. Our focus is on advancing key concerns of Swiss citizens abroad, particularly in the areas of e-voting, health insurance, banking issues, and AHV/IV (Swiss social security).

 

It is a great honor for me to represent the interests of Swiss citizens abroad. I am fully committed to fostering close collaboration with the members of the CSA, the Organization of the Swiss Abroad (OSA), Swiss embassies and consulates, as well as members of the Swiss parliament and cantonal governments. I look forward to continuing this important work for our global Swiss community.

Membership/Active involvement in Swiss Associations/groups

• Swiss Society of New York: Lifetime member since 2006, Board Member 2006-2016, Chairperson of the Swiss Ball 2007-2012, and President 2013-2016

• Swiss American Chamber of Commerce, NY Chapter: Member since 2008

• Organization of the Swiss Abroad/Council of the Swiss Abroad: Delegate USA since 2017

 

Profession
Project Manager

 

Languages

German, English, French

Interests
Travel, Swiss Culture, Politics, Art, Music, Skiing, Scuba Diving, Dancing, Cooking, Wine, Spiritual Philosophy. 

Contact
SeifertWittmer@gmail.com

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