To mark its 40 years, FERMA published a special brochure celebrating its history and held a Champagne reception and gala dinner at the Palais des Beaux Arts, an art deco masterpiece by Victor Horta (1861-1947), which is now a prestigious Brussels venue for the arts.

The 40th anniversary brochure tells the story of FERMA since its beginning in 1974 to the present day through the story of its presidents, and at the dinner, the current President of FERMA Julia Graham welcomed many of her predecessors, including Life President François Settembrino, and other guests. “It is,” said Julia, “a history created by people who share a passion for our profession.”

She also thanked FERMA Treasurer Fernand De Winter and his predecessor Serge Marchand, Secretary General Pierre Sonigo, Executive Director Florence Bindelle who became FERMA’s first member of staff, and the FERMA office team of Julien Bedhouche, Véronique De Hertogh and Christel Jaumoulle.

Julia added that a number of people also quietly and generously give of their time, including the board and her three Vice Presidents Michel Dennery, Alessandro De Felice and Jo Willaert, association members and their presidents, FERMA’s partners, and countless volunteers who work on FERMA’s projects and committees.

“Thank you for all for that you do – and for all that you will continue to do in support of FERMA,” Julia said, and she concluded by following British tradition and raising a toast “to FERMA”.

Download the FERMA 40th anniversary brochure