Merck Establishes New Foundation for Global Healthcare Solutions

Merck Group announced the establishment of the Merck Foundation, a non-profit limited liability company. Through this foundation, Merck combines many of its corporate responsibility activities under one roof and considerably expands its scope to address health, social and economic challenges of the 21st century.

“The vision of the new foundation is the world where everyone can lead a healthy and fulfilling life, also those living under disadvantaged conditions,” said Frank Stangenberg-Haverkamp, chairman of the board of trustees of the new foundation.

“With the Merck Foundation, we will continue our commitment towards improving access to innovative healthcare solutions in underserved communities, building healthcare and scientific research capacity and advancing people’s lives through science and technology,” added Haverkamp.

“The Merck Foundation will focus on initiatives that will contribute towards the sustainable development goals outlined by the United Nations. To achieve the foundations’ goals, we will develop and implement coherent strategies, result oriented programs and initiatives, provide grants to support projects and help raise funds where needed,” said Rasha Kelej, who has been appointed CEO of the Merck Foundation.

Kelej (45) joined Merck in 1996, working exclusively in positions relevant to corporate responsibility and market development with a strong focus on Africa and developing countries.