East-West Connections, in partnership with The Museum of Russian Art, Minnesota Committee on Foreign Relations, Macalester Department of Russian Studies, and Zerkalo, Russian-speaking Media of MN, presents a series of online webinars exploring the history and scope of Minnesota’s outsized global influence

Minnesotans have played a critical role in the development and practice of diplomacy, humanitarian programs, language study, journalism, culture, and more. Minnesota has attracted immigrants from all over the world, making the state a hub of diverse cultures. East-West Connections believes it is time to shine a light on the value of Minnesota and the depth of this state’s unique international contributions and influence. This is the impetus for EWC’s 2023-24 multi-program series Minnesota’s International Influence.

First Program in the Series:

Small to Big: Minnesota’s Programs with Global Reach – how Minnesota became a leader in the development of international exchange programs

Thursday, September 14  |   7:00 – 8:00 PM CST

Free online webinar. Please register in advance.

Long a welcoming hub for refugees and immigrants, Minnesota has also produced more than its share of leaders who have catalyzed citizen diplomacy worldwide. With Minnesota-grown programs like Siberian Bridges, CONNECT/US-RUSSIA (formerly CONNECT/US-USSR), and the Defense Language Institute, Minnesota has launched organizations that promote cultural and intellectual exchange between peoples from all over the world.

This webinar will spotlight the people behind these ground-breaking organizations. Join us to hear about the pioneers.

THE PANELISTS:

– Johnathan Gajdos, Defense Language Institute

– Cameron Binkley, Defense Language Institute

– Susan Hartman, CONNECT/US-RUSSIA (formerly CONNECT/US-USSR)

– Chuck Ritchie, Siberian Bridges affiliate

Bernadine Joselyn of East-West Connections will moderate the program.

Please register in advance. Program link will be emailed to all registrants prior to program start. Q&A will follow the presentation.

REGISTER