WASHINGTON, D.C., JUNE 8, 2011—Albert J. Siemens, PhD, FHI Chair and Chief Executive Officer, and Gregory R. Niblett, AED President and Chief Executive Officer, together announced today that FHI and AED have signed an asset purchase agreement for FHI to acquire the programs, expertise, and other assets of AED. In March 2011, Niblett outlined AED's intent to pursue a single, qualified acquirer. After an extensive review and exploration process, AED's Board of Directors and senior management have agreed that FHI is the right organization with which to move forward. The two organizations will work toward completing the acquisition within the next month, ensuring that projects continue uninterrupted. Additional details will be announced after the transaction is complete.

"We believe FHI provides the right fit for the continuity of our work in health, education, civil society, environment, and social and economic development in the U.S. and around the world," said Niblett. "We are confident that AED's diverse programs and staff, and our reputation for service to society built over the last 50 years, will continue to flourish under the leadership, management, and fiscal stewardship of FHI."

FHI, a global health and development organization, plans to employ substantially all AED staff after the asset acquisition. "It is reassuring to know that we will be able to continue our programs in collaboration with our partners, donors, and funders for the benefit of the people and communities we serve around the world," said Niblett.

Over the last 40 years, FHI has been dedicated to improving lives around the world primarily through its work in health. Four years ago, FHI expanded its strategic focus to other sectors of development. The acquisition will enable FHI to expand its evidence-based approach to a broader set of social challenges—including education, health, science, research, civil society, and economic development—improving lives in the U.S. and abroad.

"FHI and AED share similar missions, strong mutual histories of partnership at every level, and a commitment to foster sustainable development in communities in greatest need. Creating lasting change in the communities we serve is at the center of our work," said Siemens. "The opportunity to leverage our collective expertise, programs, and partnerships will amplify our efforts to implement solutions to critical social problems around the globe."

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For more information, please visit FHI's website.