RICHMOND, Va. – The World Affairs Council of Greater Richmond presented its 2007 Virginia Global Business Ambassador Award for the large-work force manufacturing sector to Albemarle Corp.

The honor recognizes Albemarle for acting as a U.S. “ambassador,” promoting ideals and values that enrich people’s lives both here and overseas.

Former Va. Gov. Mark Warner presented the award to Dr. William M. Gottwald, chairman of the board of directors of Albemarle, a Richmond-based specialty chemicals manufacturer with leading global positions in flame retardants, refining catalysts, bromine chemicals and custom manufacturing services.

The Global Business Ambassador Awards, initiated in 2005, honor companies based in Virginia that positively influence other societies’ views of the United States through good corporate citizenship and American business values, especially at a time when “global opinion concerning ‘brand America’ is volatile,” council President Randolph Bell said.

The winners were selected from 1,300 service companies and 450 manufacturing companies in Virginia. Companies nominated for the Ambassador Awards must have overseas operations in at least three countries and management team operations in Virginia. Finalists must demonstrate commitment to people through clear “employee-centered principles and practices,” commitment to the community through active involvement in charities and events, and commitment to development through a culture of continual investment in new products, designs and/or research.

“As a company with more than 3,700 employees worldwide, Albemarle is committed to creating sustainable solutions that have a positive and long-term impact on our customers, our shareholders, our employees and the communities in which we operate and live,” Gottwald said. “We are pleased that the ‘good works’ of our employees have been recognized in such a meaningful way by the World Affairs Council and remain committed to upholding and promoting a culture of high ideals and good stewardship.”

Albemarle operates a plant in Orangeburg.

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