American Express 2006 Annual Report Download - page 30

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IN CLOSING
Rewarding relationships begin with commitments. They develop with knowledge and
insights. They thrive when both sides benefi t. And they last when those benefi ts are deliv-
ered reliably, with care and respect, over time.
American Express is committed to building rewarding, lasting relationships with our
customers and partners.
We are committed to creating the kind of workplace environment that not only attracts
talented and diverse employees but enables them to grow and prosper.
We are committed to giving back to our communities by devoting time and resources
to philanthropy, conducting our business with integrity and recognizing our responsibility
to society.
And we are committed to generating value for our shareholders.
With our strong competitive advantages, diverse businesses and wide-ranging oppor-
tunities, American Express is well-positioned to deliver on our commitments. It is an
exciting time to be part of the payments industry, and I am confi dent that American
Express will remain at the forefront of the transformation.
Sincerely,
Kenneth I. Chenault
Chairman and Chief Executive Offi cer
February 26, 2007
In Memory of Gerald R. Ford
On a sad note, we said goodbye at the start of the new year to one of the
most distinguished and valued directors ever to serve on our board
—
former
President Gerald R. Ford, who passed away late last December. President
Ford served as an American Express director from 1982 to 1986 and continued
to play an important role as a senior advisor until he retired in 2003. For
more than two decades, President Ford was a true friend and supporter of
American Express. We were privileged to have had the benefi t of his insights
for so many years.
letter to shareholders
[ 28 ]