Minnesota Chapter of the Fulbright Association

About Us

The mission of the Fulbright Association is to advocate for the Fulbright Program and promote international education. Our vision is a world where international exchange is widely recognized as a force for peace.

Minnesota Chapter of the Fulbright Association

The Minnesota Chapter of the Fulbright Association warmly invites Fulbright alumni, visiting scholars, students, and friends of international exchange to join our vibrant community. We host a wide range of engaging programs and events across the state, fostering meaningful connections and cultural exchange.

We are proud to collaborate with local universities and colleges, co-sponsoring enriching events and initiatives. As a non-profit organization run by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors, your support is invaluable.

2023 Programming of the Year Award

Join us in celebrating international exchange and cultural understanding. Get involved today and make a difference!

Stay Connected

  • Visit our Contact Page to join our email list.
  • Join the MN Fulbright Groups on LinkedIn and the Fulbrighter Network to view upcoming events, share your stories, and post your pictures. We would love to see and hear about your experiences!
Fulbright Association Minnesota Chapter Logo
FACON23

Leadership

Meet the dedicated individuals leading the Minnesota Chapter of the Fulbright Association. Our team is committed to fostering international educational exchange and cultural immersion.

Gwyneth Bravo

Gwyneth Bravo

President

Passionate about fostering global connections and cultural exchange, Gwyneth leads our dedicated volunteer team with a vision for a more interconnected world. With a commitment to cooperation and mutual understanding, Gwyneth drives our mission to create impactful programs and events that bring people together in Minnesota.

Cheri Shakiban

Cheri Shakiban

Vice President

Dedicated to fostering global connections and cultural understanding, Cheri Shakiban is committed to creating engaging programs and events for Fulbright alumni and visiting scholars in Minnesota. Her leadership ensures a diverse and inclusive network that embodies the Fulbright principle of cooperation through mutual understanding.

Yara Bustillo

Yara Bustillo

Treasurer

Yara is deeply committed to making a positive impact and inspiring others to create a better world. As Treasurer, she focuses on ensuring the financial stability and growth of the Fulbright Minnesota Chapter, furthering our mission. Yara’s dedication to advancing a peaceful and collaborative global community brings immense value to our team.

Mary Stanton

Mary Stanton

Secretary

Mary Stanton, former Fulbright Association BOD and Chair of Alumni Travel Task Force and Minnesota Chapter, holds a Fulbright grant for teaching in New Delhi, India, and a Master’s Degree in English and French Literature. With a background in education and international experiences, Mary advocates for Fulbright and co-hosts events.

Kelly La Venture

Kelly La Venture

Social Media

Passionate about connecting people and cultures through social media, Kelly fosters global understanding and cooperation by sharing stories of international exchange and cultural immersion for the MN Chapter. Her engaging content brings the chapter’s vision of a peaceful and cooperative world through educational exchange to life online.

Pakeeza Akram

Pakeeza Akram

Board Member

Sally Gregory Kohlstedt

Sally Gregory Kohlstedt

Board Member

Kjersti Duval

Kjersti Duval

Board Member

Kinyuy Irene Lila

Kinyuy Irene Lila

Board Member

Kirsten Fischer

Kirsten Fischer

Board Member

Mariangel Meza Santiviago

Mariangel Meza Santiviago

Board Member

Kimberly Johnson

Kimberly Johnson

Board Member

Forest Purnell

Forest Purnell

Board Member

Frank Jossi

Frank Jossi

Board Member

Thomas Normile

Thomas Normile

Board Member