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!



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
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
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
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
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
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
Board Member

Sally Gregory Kohlstedt
Board Member

Kjersti Duval
Board Member

Kinyuy Irene Lila
Board Member

Kirsten Fischer
Board Member

Mariangel Meza Santiviago
Board Member

Kimberly Johnson
Board Member

Forest Purnell
Board Member

Frank Jossi
Board Member

Thomas Normile
Board Member