Norway, May 27, 2017

We are delighted to accept the invitation to join The Giving Pledge.

Thirty seven years ago on March 1 1980, I landed at Sea-Tac Airport in Seattle as a 21 year-old fisherman bound for Alaska. A Norwegian citizen without a formal education, savings, or network of people in a new country. I learned that it is not the size of the opportunity that defines the outcome, but rather the people who are with you pursuing the opportunity. To everyone who has been with me in good and bad times (mostly of my own making), thank you. I am forever grateful for the opportunities the United States has given me and my family.

As our financial resources have grown over the years, though not in a straight line, we have sought to address the question of how to manage our wealth in a productive way that has a purpose beyond ourselves. Ten years ago, we as a family reached the conclusion that our assets, although belonging to us in legal terms, are not “only ours for the keeping”. Therefore, we decided to give the majority of it to the causes our family believes can make the planet a more sustainable and fairer place to live. We have prioritized three areas: “local” community, higher education and the environment, with a special focus on the oceans.

Over the years we have given, but not in a large or structured way. By joining The Giving Pledge we now have the opportunity to learn how giving can and should be done to greatest effect. We commit to being good listeners and participants.

As the lucky ones in life, we have been given much, sacrificed little, and gained a lot. It is a true privilege for our family to reconfirm our commitment to give back by joining The Giving Pledge.

On behalf of my family,