The EDHEC Foundation, created under the aegis of the Fondation de France, was set up to support educational development and the diversity of talents.

Since 2001, the Foundation has focused on extending EDHEC Business School's reach and diversity so that:

• students who wish to join EDHEC Business School and who meet the requirements may do so, regardless of their financial situation.
• students with limited financial means may also develop a project abroad.
• the diversity of the students' social, cultural and geographical background enhances the strength and the appeal of the school.

Thierry Marraud, EDHEC 66, was appointed President of the EDHEC Foundation when it was first set up. During his long career he has held a string of top level appointments as Financial Director and then General Manager of the Saint-Gobain Group, member of the Executive Committee of the Crédit Lyonnais and President of the Board of Directors at Marsh. He is currently Financial Director for the BOLLORE Group.

"Today's European business schools have to take on board the challenges of globalisation and the search for excellence in the management, support and financial assistance offered to talented students if they are to remain among the front-runners.

EDHEC Business School has already established its international reputation thanks to the three international accreditations it holds from the AACSB, Equis and AMBA, and now it has set its sights on becoming one of the top European business schools.

The EDHEC Foundation is determined to play a key role in achieving this ambition. It will help to develop a new financial strength that will lead to even stronger ties with business organisations to better match their needs and to promote the crucial innovative academic projects that will enable EDHEC to stay ahead of the game.

It is an ambitious challenge, but is both inspiring and motivating for all the members of the EDHEC team. The support of our alumni will be a decisive factor in the Foundation's success.

I am both proud and honoured to be President of our Foundation which I regard as an exceptional project. It will help EDHEC Business School to enhance its international reputation and ensure that our academic quality grows ever stronger."

"As social responsibility is now a key feature in the business environment, Edhec is keen to consolidate this dimension and has decided to increase the support that it offers to young talent."

Isabelle Sequeira
Executive Director for the EDHEC Foundation