Global Minnesota

Baltic Briefing: Latvia in Context
2025-02-24 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, 55407, United States
This event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
Though Latvia may be best known for its vast boreal forests and unique architecture, its position as one of Russia’s western neighbors has thrust the small Baltic country into a new spotlight. A recent announcement about Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia’s disconnection from the Russian electric grid is a big step towards energy security and has raised questions about natural resources and economic development in the region. What does the year ahead look like for the Baltic states?
Join Global Minnesota for a unique opportunity to hear directly from the Ambassador of Latvia, Elita Kuzma, on the country’s economic and geopolitical direction, including trends in national security, investment possibilities in the region, and its role in the wider relationship between NATO and Russia.
Speakers:
Ambassador Elita Kuzma
Ambassador Elita serves as the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Latvia to the United States. She has also served as Ambassador to Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy, and Sweden, as well as the Permanent Representative to the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization.
She joined the Foreign Service of the restored Republic of Latvia in 1992, taking up a post at the Economic Cooperation Division. After that, Elita Kuzma worked at the Western Europe Division, to later become Director of the First Political Department and then Under Secretary, Head of the First Political Directorate. She has also served as Head of the Economic and Bilateral Relations Directorate, Head of the European Union Directorate, and Head of the State Protocol.
Her non-resident Ambassador accreditations include Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Kosovo, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Malta, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland.
Please contact Katie Kelley at kkelley@globalminnesota.org for questions or accessibility accommodations.
Register Here

International Business Roundtable: U.S. Trade Policy and Potential Business Impacts
2025-02-25 08:30 - 10:00 | Dorsey & Whitney LLP, 50 South Sixth St., Suite 1500, Minneapolis, 55402
This event is being held virtually and in-person and is open to everyone. Registration is now CLOSED. To sign up to attend virtually, please email DorseyU@dorsey.com.
As a new administration begins in Washington, significant changes in trade policy could begin taking shape. Tariffs are increasingly invoked as a possible means to address longstanding economic and political differences among countries around the world. What are the potential trade implications of a second Trump administration and what changes could impact trade with Canada and Mexico?
Join us for a discussion about the second Trump Administration, the direction for U.S. trade policy, and how businesses can plan for imminent changes. The program will feature perspectives from distinguished diplomats from Canada and Mexico, followed by a panel discussion of leaders from the business community. In particular, the program will address the following topics:
· U.S. Government policies towards trade, including a focus on the upcoming renegotiation of the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement (USMCA).
· A first look at actions the Trump administration took upon taking office, including a directive to examine U.S. trade policies and current tariff rates.
· Tips on planning for changes to tariff policy, including tariff mitigation strategies and reducing risk through compliance measures.

INTRODUCTORY REMARKS
Phil Hansen
President, Global Minnesota

KEYNOTES
Ambassador Iván Roberto Sierra Medel
Head Consul of Mexico in Saint Paul
Allan Edwards
Senior Trade Commissioner, Global Affairs Canada

PANEL DISCUSSION
Jessica Libby
Principal, KPMG LLP
Heather Marcaccini
Vice President, Regulatory Affairs – Global Trade Compliance/Equipment & Digital, Ecolab
Lawrence Reszetar
Director, International Business Strategy, Minnesota Trade Office
Dave Townsend
Partner, Dorsey & Whitney – Moderator
Jen West
Director, Americas Trade Operations, Medtronic

Presented in partnership with Dorsey & Whitney LLP and KPMG.
If you have questions about event details, please contact Lori Wosmek.

Culture Through Cuisine: Nikkei
2025-02-25 18:00 - 20:00 | K’kinaco, 922 Mainstreet, Hopkins, 55343, United States
This event is being held in-person and is open to everyone. This event is SOLD OUT.
After becoming the first Latin American country to establish diplomatic relations with Japan, Peru saw a significant wave of Japanese immigration. As Japanese and Peruvian cultures mixed together, new traditions arose, including Nikkei cuisine, a blending of ingredients and preparation styles between the two countries.
Join Global Minnesota at K’kinaco, Minnesota’s only Nikkei restaurant and Pisco bar for a unique Culture through Cuisine. Hear from co-owner Enrique Luis about the origins of the food tradition and experience a hand selected three course meal. You’ll also sample a hand-crafted pisco cocktail, the national spirit of Peru which is similar to brandy.
Registration includes appetizers, dinner, dessert, a cocktail or non-alcoholic beverage, and taxes and tip. Additional beverages will be available for purchase. Dinner is served as a pre-set menu, so please let us know by February 13 if you have any dietary restrictions (including if you need a vegetarian menu or non-alcoholic cocktail option).
Global Minnesota members receive discounted admission. Members are welcome to bring a guest at the member rate.
Not yet a member? Check out the many benefits of membership and join today!
Menu

Please contact Katie Kelley at kkelley@globalminnesota.org for questions, accessibility accommodations, or dietary restrictions.

Podcast Episode: 2025 Foreign Policy Update Q&A with Tom Hanson
2025-02-26 - 2025-03-12
In January, Global Minnesota hosted our most popular event, the annual U.S. Foreign Policy Update. Over 600 people registered to attend this dynamic and insightful discussion providing a comprehensive overview of global developments and trends. The evening featured an in-depth presentation from University of Minnesota – Duluth Diplomat in Residence and career Foreign Service Officer Tom Hanson. His diplomatic postings included East Germany, France, Norway, the Soviet Union, Sweden, and the former Soviet Republic of Georgia. The full event recording is available as a special Global Minnesota member benefit now, and will be released to the public at a later date.
This episode is a follow-up conversation with Tom featuring questions that were submitted during the event. We’ve compiled a wide-ranging sample of the questions to hear more of Tom’s unique insights into the major trends impacting American foreign policy in the year ahead.
Listen below, or subscribe to our podcast on all major podcast apps.

Hear untold stories of international connections by subscribing to The Global Minnesota Podcast. Now available on all podcast streaming apps!
Links
Recording: 2025 U.S. Foreign Policy Update (Coming Soon)
Podcast Episode: Great Decisions Discussion Groups
Great Decisions Discussion Groups
2025 Briefing Books
Transcript: Secretary of State Rubio Interview

This interview was recorded on February 3, 2025.

Edina Great Decisions: The Future of NATO & European Security
2025-03-03 16:00 - 17:30 | Edina Community Center, 5701 Normandale Rd, Edina, MN, 55424, United States
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
European security is more uncertain than it has been for decades. Russia has launched a war with Ukraine and America’s uncertain role as leader of NATO and security provider has been called into question. What are Europe’s options, and how might developments on both sides of Western Europe – in Ukraine and across the Atlantic – impact its choices? What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas?
This program is presented by Edina Community Ed through a partnership with the Edina Senior Center, the Edina Library, the Edina Community Center, and Global Minnesota.
The Great Decisions program addresses some of the most timely foreign policy issues facing the United States each year. Global Minnesota facilitates discussion groups across the state, providing access to a roster of local foreign policy experts and offering Great Decisions books produced by the Foreign Policy Association. A limited number of discounted books are available for purchase by Global Minnesota members and groups ordering ten or more books.
Rick Olson, presenter
Rick Olson is a retired professional with a variety of educational and life experiences. He has worked as an economist, an attorney, a certified financial planner, an agricultural loan officer, an agricultural cooperative president, a State Representative in Michigan and a public-school business manager. He obtained a Juris Doctor degree from Stanford Law School and completed the coursework in two Ph.D. programs (Agricultural Economics and Education Administration).
Register

After Assad: What's Next for Syria?
2025-03-04 15:30 - 16:30
This event is being held virtually and is open to everyone. Please Note: This program will now begin at 3:30 PM (CST), rather than as originally scheduled at 4:00 PM (CST).
After 54 years in power, the Assad family in Syria was overthrown in December by rebel forces. This regime was widely regarded as one of the most repressive dictatorships in recent history. An uneasy coalition has emerged among the rebel forces with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham leading the transition. With widespread sanctions still in effect and ongoing terrorism designations, Syria’s new leadership has limited international legitimacy. What conditions must be met for Syria to succeed and what geopolitical factors might hinder them?
Join Global Minnesota for a timely webinar featuring Mona Yacoubian, Vice President of the Middle East and North Africa Center at the United States Institute of Peace. She will discuss the current situation in the region and prospects for Syria’s future.
Register
About the Speaker
Mona Yacoubian is Vice President of the Middle East and North Africa Center at the United States Institute of Peace. She brings more than 30 years of experience working on the Middle East and North Africa. Her work has centered on conflict analysis, governance and stabilization challenges, and conflict prevention.
Mona joined the USIP after serving as Deputy Assistant Administrator in the Middle East Bureau at USAID from 2014 to 2017, where she had responsibility for Iraq, Syria, Jordan and Lebanon. Prior to joining USAID, Yacoubian was a senior advisor at the Stimson Center focusing on the Arab uprisings with an emphasis on Syria.
She earned a M.A. in public administration from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government and a B.A. in public policy from Duke University. Read her full bio here.

2025 High School Academic WorldQuest Competition
2025-03-12 15:00 - 18:00 | Saint Mary’s University Center, 2540 Park Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, 55404, United States
This event is being held in-person. High school teams are invited to participate and everyone is invited to watch!
Challenge your knowledge of international events and join the fun at our popular high school competition – Academic WorldQuest. This FREE event brings together high school students across the state of Minnesota in an exciting and interactive competition about critical issues facing the U.S. and the world. This year’s event is open to the public to view the competition!
Featuring multiple-choice questions on topics such as Space & National Security, Current Events, Borders & Boundaries, and a focus on Mexico, this competition prepares students to better understand our globally-connected world. Plus, Global Minnesota will sponsor the winning team to represent Minnesota at the national Academic WorldQuest competition presented by the World Affairs Councils of America. Hotel and airfare will be provided for the winning team.
Register a High School Team Here
Register as a Spectator Here
Competition Details

FREE to compete!
New Location: Saint Mary’s University Campus
Each high school (9-12 grade students) can register up to 2 teams of 4 students on a first-come, first-served basis. Additional teams are accepted as space allows.
Refreshments provided for game players and their school chaperones.
NEW THIS YEAR: Everyone is invited to attend and watch the championship competition.
First place team receives a championship trophy for their school and the opportunity to represent Minnesota at the national competition in Washington, D.C. in April.
Team Spirit Award: Let your spirit show with fun costumes and enthusiastic energy for a chance to win gift cards!
Access the Study Guide
Review the 2025 topics

Agenda
3:00 pm Lunch and Registration (Teams Only)
3:45 pm Spectators Arrive
3:50 pm Introduction and Welcome Remarks
4:00 pm Competition
5:30 pm Winners Announced and Photos
Questions? Please email Sylvia Oxenham, K-12 Education Manager.

Academic WorldQuest is a youth education program of the national network of World Affairs Councils. Presented in partnership with the World Affairs Councils of America.

Great Decisions: International Cooperation on Climate Change
2025-03-12 17:00 - 19:15 | The Woman’s Club of Minneapolis, 410 Oak Grove St, Minneapolis, 55403
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone. An optional dinner will start at 7:15 following the presentation. The dinner is $25 for Woman’s Club members and $30 for non-members (plus service fee and taxes).
The 2015 Paris Agreement established a U.N.-sponsored framework for negotiations on climate change and global warming. In subsequent meetings, experts and political leaders have come together seeking common cause for this growing global crisis. What is the future of these efforts, and what have they yielded?
This program is presented by the Woman’s Club of Minneapolis through a partnership with Global Minnesota.
The Great Decisions program addresses some of the most critical foreign policy issues facing the United States each year. Global Minnesota facilitates the statewide Great Decisions program by providing access to a roster of local foreign policy experts and to discussion materials produced by the Foreign Policy Association. Great Decisions books contain articles and materials authored by experts on each topic to provide a nonpartisan basis for understanding the important global issues of our time. A limited number of discounted books are available for purchase by Global Minnesota members and groups ordering ten or more books.
Todd Lefko, presenter
Todd is Chairperson of East-West Connections, an international non-profit focused on citizen diplomacy, and has taught over 4,400 students at the University of Minnesota and other Minnesota colleges. He has lectured at universities in Russia, Germany, China, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. He holds a BA in History, an MA in Public Administration and the coursework for a Ph. D in Urban History from the University of Minnesota.
Register
Interested in joining or starting a Great Decisions discussion group? Listen to our past podcast episode to learn how!

Edina Great Decisions: Between China, the West, and the Global South
2025-03-17 16:00 - 17:30 | Edina Community Center, 5701 Normandale Rd, Edina, MN, 55424, United States
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
China, the West, and the Global South are reshaping the world stage—but how does it affect your future? Explore the shifting dynamics of power, trade, and technology among these regions and why their relationships matter to the United States. From the impact on jobs and innovation to human rights and climate action, dive into the global ripple effects of evolving alliances.
This program is presented by Edina Community Ed through a partnership with the Edina Senior Center, the Edina Library, the Edina Community Center, and Global Minnesota.
The Great Decisions program addresses some of the most timely foreign policy issues facing the United States each year. Global Minnesota facilitates discussion groups across the state, providing access to a roster of local foreign policy experts and offering Great Decisions books produced by the Foreign Policy Association. A limited number of discounted books are available for purchase by Global Minnesota members and groups ordering ten or more books.
Andrew Latham, presenter
Andrew Latham is Professor of International Relations and Political Theory at Macalester College. Professor Latham’s primary scholarly interests are in the areas of international relations and political thought. He regularly teaches courses on international security, Chinese foreign policy, regional conflict in the Middle East, regional conflict in the Asia-Pacific, medieval political thought, U.S. foreign policy, and conservative political theory. His most recent publication is Theorizing Medieval Geopolitics: War and World Order in the Age of the Crusades. He has also published a novel about the Third Crusade entitled The Holy Lance.
Register

SDG Roundtable: In Search of Water Circularity
2025-03-20 09:00 - 12:00 | Sunrise Banks Corporate Headquarters, 2525 Wabash Ave., St. Paul, MN, 55114
This free event is being held in-person and virtually and is open to everyone. In-person registration is now closed! Virtual registration is still available.
Accessible freshwater on Earth is finite, but demand is constantly rising due to population growth and industrial use. Water circularity, the process of reusing and recycling all of the water used in a closed system, is gaining popularity even in places of water abundance such as the Netherlands. How can circularity help ensure that water demand does not exceed supply? What can we learn from other countries?
Join Global Minnesota in advance of World Water Day 2025, for our next Sustainable Development Goals Roundtable. We’ll partner with Freshwater Society, a leading Minnesota advocate for water conservation. Sunrise Banks will co-host the event. As a certified B Corp, Sunrise Banks drives social and environmental impact through ethical banking solutions.
Minnesota-based Kurita America, part of the Kurita Group headquartered in Japan, will deliver the keynote presentation. You’ll also hear from other globally-minded water experts, including Oriana Raabe, Senior Director of Sustainability at Pentair and President of the Pentair Foundation, during a panel addressing some of today’s pressing water conservation questions.
If you require an accommodation, please contact our Corporate Relations Officer Steve Jaffee at sjaffee@globalminnesota.org.
Corporate Member Resources: Open the link to see how Global Minnesota corporate members offer expertise, services, or technology that can help with your organization’s sustainability goals.
Thanks to Global Minnesota Corporate Member GF (formerly Uponor) for sponsoring this event!
Register

Capitol Tours & Mini-Burger Social
2025-03-21 10:45 - 14:30 | Minnesota State Capitol, 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Saint Paul, 55155
This event is being held in-person and is open to international and globally-minded students.
Join an unforgettable Minnesota State Capitol Tour! Embark on a special tour of the Minnesota State Capitol, led by former Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie. With his vast experience and deep knowledge, Mark will guide you through the Capitol’s rich history, sharing insider stories and behind-the-scenes insights. From stunning architecture to key moments in Minnesota’s history, this tour offers a unique look at the state’s political heart.
Afterward, we’ll walk to White Castle, just around the corner, for some mini-burgers (sliders) and social time. Enjoy delicious, small bites*, relax, and mingle with other globally-minded students in a fun, casual atmosphere. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect, share stories, and make new friends over tasty sliders.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to explore the Capitol through the eyes of a true insider and connect with other students at an iconic American fast food spot.
*Due to menu restrictions no dietary accommodations can be made – please bring cash or credit if you would like to purchase a beverage or additional food.
Agenda:
Tour 1

10:30 – 10:45 AM: Arrival at the State Capitol and Check-In with Global Minnesota
11:00 AM – 12:15 PM: Guided Tour by Former Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Richie
12:15 PM – 12:25 PM: Quick Break
12:25 – 1:25 PM: Walk to White Castle for Social Time & Slider + Fries Tasting

Tour 2

11:45 AM – 12:00 PM: Arrival at the State Capitol and Check-In with Global Minnesota
12:15 – 1:30 PM: Guided Tour by Former Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Richie
1:30 – 1:40 PM: Quick Break
1:40 – 2:40 PM: Walk to White Castle for Social Time & Slider + Fries Tasting

If you have questions about event details, please contact Jo Mattos at jmattos@globalminnesota.org.
Register
This event is limited to 30 spots due to tour capacity. Please RSVP only if you can commit to attending and make this event a priority by blocking off time on your calendar. Community members at Minnesota colleges and universities are welcome to attend.

Urban Expedition: Guatemala
2025-03-30 13:00 - 15:00 | Landmark Center, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
Explore cultures of the world with the 2025 season of Landmark Center’s popular Urban Expedition! This year’s series continues by celebrating Guatemala. Experience the vibrancy of authentic music, food, dance, and crafts in this immersive event everyone can enjoy while learning more about the world from right here in St. Paul.
Urban Expeditions are free and open to the public.

LEARN MORE

Urban Expedition is produced by Landmark Center with sponsorship from Global Minnesota and Ecolab, the Xcel Energy Foundation, Ramsey County, Travelers, and Hubbard Broadcasting Foundation.

Great Decisions: American Policy in the Middle East
2025-04-09 17:00 - 19:15 | The Woman’s Club of Minneapolis, 410 Oak Grove St, Minneapolis, 55403
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone. An optional dinner will start at 7:15 following the presentation. The dinner is $25 for Woman’s Club members and $30 for non-members (plus service fee and taxes).
The reignition of conflict in the Middle East has brought the region to a crossroads. War has devastated entire communities, sparked regime change, and forced regional powers to rethink their foreign policy strategies. What are the possible outcomes and how might the United States use its influence to shape a long-term resolution that leaves Israel, the Palestinians, and the wider region in a better position? How might other Arab states in the area be brought into a resolution?
This program is presented by the Woman’s Club of Minneapolis through a partnership with Global Minnesota.
The Great Decisions program addresses some of the most critical foreign policy issues facing the United States each year. Global Minnesota facilitates the statewide Great Decisions program by providing access to a roster of local foreign policy experts and to discussion materials produced by the Foreign Policy Association.
Henry Berman, presenter
Henry Berman is retired after working for 34 years at Ecolab, a global company based in St Paul. Henry has personal ties to the Middle East Region and has spent significant time there in the last decade. He has a strong interest in the ever-changing dynamics in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Henry is a member of the Council of Foreign Relations and is active in a local Great Decisions Group. He has given popular presentations throughout Minnesota on varied topics such as Saudi Arabia, Future of the Kurds, Egypt and the Arab Spring, Syrian Refugee Crisis and the U.S.- Israel relationship. Henry has a BA from Hamilton College and an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.
Register
Interested in joining or starting a Great Decisions discussion group? Listen to our past podcast episode to learn how!

Career Goal Setting for International Student Success
2025-04-10 12:00 - 13:00
This free event is being held virtually and is open to international students in Minnesota.
Looking for practical tips and advice on how to set realistic professional goals?
Join Global Minnesota for an interactive workshop designed to help international students set and achieve their career goals. This engaging event features two global speakers who will share their professional insights. The session includes a hands-on goal-setting activity, followed by a Q&A to ask questions and gain valuable advice. Don’t miss this opportunity to take actionable steps toward your future success!
This event is presented in partnership with University of Minnesota International Careers.
Register Here
If you have questions about event details, please contact Jane Sitter.
This event was designed with international students in mind. Community members at Minnesota colleges and universities are welcome to attend.

Spotlight on Ireland with Consul General Cahalane
2025-04-10 18:00 - 19:15 | Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, 301 19th Ave. S, Minneapolis, 55454
This event is being held in-person and is open to everyone. This event is now AT CAPACITY. If you previously registered and can no longer attend, please email Katie Kelley at kkelley@globalminnesota.org
From shared agricultural foundations to current economic goals and prospects, Ireland and Minnesota have more in common than a similar population size and GDP. Influences of Irish heritage in dance studios, music venues, and art galleries are found across the state, while expanding financial ties continue to deepen these connections. What’s next for this growing partnership?
Join Global Minnesota and the Humphrey School of Public Affairs for a lively conversation with the new Consul General of Ireland in Chicago, Brian Cahalane. Consul General Cahalane brings years of foreign ministry experience to his role and will broadly discuss Ireland’s trade and political goals, as well as the importance of Irish ties to the Midwest. The conversation will be moderated by Professor Eric Schwartz, Chair of the Humphrey School of Public Affairs Global Policy Area.
About the Speaker:
Consul General Brian Cahalane
Consul General Cahalane was appointed Consul General to the Midwestern United States in September 2024. He joined the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs in 1992, serving in the Development Cooperation Division. Since then, he has served in numerous roles, including at the Permanent Representation to the European Union in Brussels and policy advisor to the National Parliament. His work also includes time at the United Nations headquarters in New York and the Irish Embassy in Washington D.C.
Before joining the Foreign Service, Consul General Cahalane worked in the Office of the Revenue Commissioners. He is a graduate of the University of Galway in Banking & Finance and the Institute of Public Administration. The eldest of seven children, he was born in Dublin, and grew up in both Dublin and Galway.
Moderator: Professor Eric Schwartz
Professor Eric Schwartz is Chair of the Humphrey School’s Global Policy Area. Schwartz previously served as Dean of the Humphrey School, and worked for five years as President of Refugees International. He has also served as U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Population, Refugees, and Migration, Senior Director at the National Security Council at the White House, and Special Assistant to the President for Multilateral and Humanitarian Affairs.
He holds a law degree from New York University School of Law; a Master of Public Affairs degree from Princeton University; and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the State University of New York at Binghamton.
Please contact Katie Kelley at kkelley@globalminnesota.org for questions or accessibility accommodations.

Urban Expedition: Venezuela
2025-04-13 13:00 - 15:00 | Landmark Center, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
Explore cultures of the world with the 2025 season of Landmark Center’s popular Urban Expedition! This year’s series continues by celebrating Venezuela. Experience the vibrancy of authentic music, food, dance, and crafts in this immersive event everyone can enjoy while learning more about the world from right here in St. Paul.
Urban Expeditions are free and open to the public.

LEARN MORE

Urban Expedition is produced by Landmark Center with sponsorship from Global Minnesota and Ecolab, the Xcel Energy Foundation, Ramsey County, Travelers, and Hubbard Broadcasting Foundation.

Edina Great Decisions: International Climate Change Cooperation
2025-04-21 16:00 - 17:30 | Edina Community Center, 5701 Normandale Rd, Edina, MN, 55424, United States
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
The 2015 Paris Agreement established a U.N.-sponsored framework for negotiations on climate change and global warming. In subsequent meetings, experts and political leaders have come together seeking common cause for this growing global crisis. What is the future of these efforts, and what have they yielded?
This program is presented by Edina Community Ed through a partnership with the Edina Senior Center, the Edina Library, the Edina Community Center, and Global Minnesota.
The Great Decisions program addresses some of the most timely foreign policy issues facing the United States each year. Global Minnesota facilitates discussion groups across the state, providing access to a roster of local foreign policy experts and offering Great Decisions books produced by the Foreign Policy Association.
Todd Lefko, presenter
Todd is Chairperson of East-West Connections, an international non-profit focused on citizen diplomacy, and has taught over 4,400 students at the University of Minnesota and other Minnesota colleges. He has lectured at universities in Russia, Germany, China, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. He holds a BA in History, an MA in Public Administration and the coursework for a Ph. D in Urban History from the University of Minnesota.
Register
Interested in joining or starting a Great Decisions discussion group? Listen to our past podcast episode to learn how!

Great Decisions Conference: India's Rising Influence
2025-04-24 09:45 - 12:45 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
This event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
With a population of nearly 1.5 billion and a GDP of $3.5 trillion U.S. Dollars, India’s influence on the global stage is rapidly rising. As the nation marks its 75th anniversary of independence this year, the world’s largest democracy stands at a unique crossroads between China, the West, and the Global South. How could India’s status as an emerging global powerhouse and its non-aligned role impact the course of international affairs?
Global Minnesota is excited to announce the return of the Great Decisions foreign policy conference! Designed to elevate the conversation around key global issues, this free half-day event will focus on India’s dynamic rise in world affairs and what it means for Minnesota. The event will feature in-depth sessions on topics such as “India’s Rising Star,” “The Role of Women in India’s Labor Movement,” and “Nuclear Proliferation and the Influence of the Quad.” Dr. Satu Limaye, Vice President of the East-West Center in Washington, D.C., will deliver a keynote presentation on the rising prominence of India in geopolitics. Join the conversation with leading local and national experts on this important and timely topic.
Register
Thank you to the Foreign Policy Association for sponsoring this event.
Agenda
9:45 am
Welcome by Phil Hansen, President, Global Minnesota
Introduction: India in Context
Ned Downie, Analyst and Researcher, Princeton University

10:20 am
Keynote: India’s Rising Star
Dr. Satu Limaye, Vice President, East-West Center
Session 1: India’s Societal Landscapes: Women’s Education and Workforce Participation
Anjuli Cameron, CEO, SEWA-AIFW
Aashraya Seth, Humphrey Fellow, Impact91 Founder
Session 2: The Unilateral Impulse: The Quad and Nonproliferation
Dr. Raymond Kuo, Director & Senior Political Consultant, RAND

12:40 pm
Program Concludes/ Great Decisions Networking
View Speaker Bios

Culture Through Cuisine: Hungary
2025-04-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Unity Church – Unitarian, 733 Portland Ave, Saint Paul, MN, 55104, United States
This event is being held in-person and is now open to everyone. This event is now SOLD OUT. Please contact Katie Kelley at kkelley@globalminnesota.org to inquire about additional seats.
When you picture Transylvania, do you think of dramatic castles and unique medieval towns? What about its cuisine? Located in present-day Romania, Transylvania was once a significant part of the Kingdom of Hungary and its culinary traditions have been shaped by the Magyar people. The Magyars are an ethnic group primarily located in Hungary, and the word today is synonymous with Hungarian in the Hungarian language.
Global Minnesota, Creative Cultural Exchange, and the Minnesota Hungarians are delighted to welcome you to a special edition of Culture through Cuisine featuring the Honorary Consul of Hungary in Minnesota, Csilla Grauzer! She has curated a special menu of both Hungarian and Transylvanian dishes. During dinner, Csilla will also share more about the history of Hungary and the culture of the fascinating region of Transylvania.
Registration includes an assortment of appetizers, an entrée, dessert, non-alcoholic beverage, and tax and tip. The member price is open to both Global Minnesota and Minnesota Hungarians members.
Not yet a Global Minnesota member? Check out the many benefits of membership and join today!
Please contact Katie Kelley at kkelley@globalminnesota.org for questions, accessibility accommodations, or dietary restrictions.
Menu:
-Assorted Appetizers-
(Előétel Válogatás)
-“Csabai” Sausage Balls with Stewed Peppers-
(Csabai Kolbász Golyók Lecsóval)
-Tarragon Chicken with Forest Mushrooms-
(Tárkonyos Csirke Erdei Gombával)
-Baked Layered Polenta-
(Sült Rakott Puliszka)
-Dandelion and Fresh Herbs Salad with Pickled Sour Cherries-
(Zöldfűszeres Pitypangsaláta Savanyított Meggyel)
-Flourless Chocolate Hazelnut Cake with Strawberry Basil Sauce-
(Mogyorós Csokoládé Torta Bazsalikomos Eperszósszal)
Hungarian Wines-for purchase
Beer-for purchase
Hungarian NA Spritzers-for purchase
About Csilla Grauzer:
Csilla Grauzer is the Honorary Consul of Hungary in the State of Minnesota and has served in this role in 2014.
Csilla is the founder and CEO of International Gourmet, Inc., a unique food company featuring culinary tours of Hungary and Transylvania, international cooking classes, recipe development and consulting, focusing on sustainably sourced, clean-eating ingredients. She is also the founder and CEO of Creative Cultural Exchange, Inc., an 501(c) non-profit organization committed to promoting innovative cross-cultural dialogue, collaboration and development between the United States, Hungary and other countries in Central and Eastern Europe.
In October 2016, for her outstanding role in representing, promoting and preserving Hungarian culture in the diaspora, as well as for her dedication to various humanitarian initiatives, she was awarded Hungary’s Knight’s Cross of the Order of Merit. Csilla lives in Saint Louis Park, Minnesota with her husband M. Jay Shahidi.

Podcast Episode: A Primer on AI
2025-04-30 - 2025-05-15
Global Minnesota’s Great Decisions foreign policy discussion groups make international topics accessible to people all across the state. Anyone can join or start a group to begin discussing important global topics in your community.
One of this year’s Great Decisions topics is AI and National Security. Artificial Intelligence has the potential to change large sections of the global economy, social interactions, and geopolitical dynamics. On May 19, Global Minnesota will be hosting an in-depth discussion all about the intersection of AI and National Security with one of our newest Great Decisions Speakers, Ren Bin Lee Dixon. This episode is primer on the upcoming conversation with Ren Bin to help bring you up to speed on all things AI.
She is an Artificial Intelligence policy researcher with a Master’s in Public Policy, specializing in AI governance, from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota. As a Research Fellow at the Center for AI and Digital Policy, she provided policy recommendations to governments and multilateral organizations, shaping frameworks for responsible AI governance. Ren Bin also collaborates with the Center for Security and Emerging Technology on policy briefs addressing AI harm.

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Links
Upcoming Event: AI & National Security
Great Decisions Discussion Groups
Podcast Episode: Great Decisions Discussion Groups

This interview was recorded on April 21, 2025.

Urban Expedition: Ethiopia
2025-05-04 13:00 - 15:00 | Landmark Center, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
Explore cultures of the world with the 2025 season of Landmark Center’s popular Urban Expedition! This year’s series concludes by celebrating Ethiopia. Experience the vibrancy of authentic music, food, dance, and crafts in this immersive event everyone can enjoy while learning more about the world from right here in St. Paul.
Urban Expeditions are free and open to the public.

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Urban Expedition is produced by Landmark Center with sponsorship from Global Minnesota and Ecolab, the Xcel Energy Foundation, Ramsey County, Travelers, and Hubbard Broadcasting Foundation.

Edina Great Decisions: U.S. Changing Leadership in the World Economy
2025-05-05 16:00 - 17:30 | Edina Community Center, 5701 Normandale Rd, Edina, MN, 55424, United States
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
For most of the postwar era, the U.S. has tied its global leadership to cooperative agendas aimed at creating a more open-world trading system, but that notion is increasingly being challenged. What are America’s options and opportunities as a leader of the world economy? How will strategic competition with China impact its leadership role?
This program is presented by Edina Community Ed through a partnership with the Edina Senior Center, the Edina Library, the Edina Community Center, and Global Minnesota.
The Great Decisions program addresses some of the most timely foreign policy issues facing the United States each year. Global Minnesota facilitates discussion groups across the state, providing access to a roster of local foreign policy experts and offering Great Decisions books produced by the Foreign Policy Association.
Rick Olson, presenter
Rick Olson is a retired professional with a variety of educational and life experiences. He has worked as an economist, an attorney, a certified financial planner, an agricultural loan officer, an agricultural cooperative president, a State Representative in Michigan and a public-school business manager. He obtained a Juris Doctor degree from Stanford Law School and completed the coursework in two Ph.D. programs (Agricultural Economics and Education Administration).
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Interested in joining or starting a Great Decisions discussion group? Listen to our past podcast episode to learn how!

The Art of Diplomacy with Ambassador Stu Eizenstat
2025-05-07 18:00 - 19:30
This event is being held virtually and is open to everyone.
Looking for insights into the greatest diplomatic negotiations of the past 50 years? Diplomacy is a careful craft that requires patience, creativity, and attention to detail. In an age when subtlety is sometimes scarce and major policy shifts happen frequently, how can America’s diplomats navigate complex challenges to advance U.S. interests around the world?
Join Global Minnesota and Carleton College for a virtual webinar with Ambassador Stuart Eizenstat, who will outline the direction of diplomacy in the United States. As author of the new book, The Art of Diplomacy, Ambassador Eizenstat will draw on his interviews with over 60 key figures in American diplomacy to discuss what it means to be a skilled negotiator. Take a behind-the-scenes look at major international agreements from the treaty to end the Vietnam War to the Kyoto Protocols and the Iranian Nuclear Accord. Discover the perspectives of a true insider in this conversation moderated by Star Tribune journalist John Rash.
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Order his book The Art of Diplomacy from local bookseller Magers & Quinn here.
About the Speaker: Ambassador Stuart Eizenstat
During a decade and a half of public service in six U.S. administrations, Ambassador Stuart Eizenstat has held a number of key senior positions, including Chief White House Domestic Policy Adviser to President Jimmy Carter; U.S. Ambassador to the European Union, Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, Under Secretary of State for Economic, Business and Agricultural Affairs, and Deputy Secretary of the Treasury in the Clinton Administration.
He also served as Special Adviser on Holocaust-Era Issues to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Secretary of State John Kerry during the Obama Administration, and has held positions on the Defense Policy Board for Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel and Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter.
Ambassador Eizenstat is Senior Counsel in Covington & Burling LLP’s international practice. His work at Covington focuses on resolving international trade problems and business disputes with the U.S. and foreign governments, and international business transactions and regulations on behalf of U.S. companies and others around the world. He was previously an Adjunct Lecturer at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, where he taught a course on presidential decision-making.
He has written numerous books, including Imperfect Justice (2003), President Carter: The White House Years (2018), and most recently, The Art of Diplomacy (2024). He is the recipient of numerous awards, including the Elie Wiesel Award from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
Moderator: John Rash
John Rash is an editorial writer and columnist, and his weekly Rash Report column analyzes media news and trends. His focus on foreign policy as an editorial writer has taken him on reporting trips to Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Rwanda and Turkey. Prior to joining the Star Tribune, John was a Senior Vice President, Director of Media Analysis for Mithun, a Minneapolis-based national advertising agency.
Please contact Melisa Gildner at mgildner@globalminnesota.org for questions or accessibility accommodations.

Update on Ukraine with Consul General Koledov
2025-05-08 14:30 - 15:45 | Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, 301 19th Ave. S, Minneapolis, 55454
This event is being held in-person and is open to everyone. This event is now SOLD OUT.
Over three years have passed since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. With an apparent stalemate on the battlefield and U.S. support becoming less consistent, what are Ukraine’s next steps and how does this impact Minnesota’s vibrant Ukrainian-American community?
Join Global Minnesota and the Humphrey School of Public Affairs to hear the latest from the Consul General of Ukraine, Serhiy Koledov. Consul General Koledov will discuss the challenges and prospects for peaceful resolution, as well as the rich cultural ties between Minnesota and Ukraine.
Global Minnesota members receive discounted admission. Members are welcome to bring a guest at the member rate.
Not yet a member? Check out the many benefits of membership and join today.
About the Speaker: Consul General Koledov
Consul General Koledov was appointed Consul General of Ukraine in Chicago in July 2020. He joined the diplomatic service of Ukraine in 2002, having worked at different posts at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
His service spans numerous roles including as First Secretary for Ukraine’s Treaty and Legal Directorate, Second Secretary at the Embassy of Ukraine in Kazakhstan, and Deputy Director General for the Directorate for International Law.
Before joining the Foreign Service, Consul General Koledov received his masters degree in international law from the Institute of International Relations of Kyiv National Taras Shevchenko University. He holds the diplomatic rank of Counselor of the First Class.
Please contact Melisa Gildner at mgildner@globalminnesota.org for questions or accessibility accommodations.

Great Decisions: The Future of NATO & European Security
2025-05-14 17:00 - 19:15 | The Woman’s Club of Minneapolis, 410 Oak Grove St, Minneapolis, 55403
This free event is being held in-person and is open to everyone. An optional dinner will start at 7:15 following the presentation. The dinner is $25 for Woman’s Club members and $30 for non-members (plus service fee and taxes).
European security is more uncertain than it has been for decades. Russia has launched a war with Ukraine and America’s uncertain role as leader of NATO and security provider has been called into question. What are Europe’s options, and how might developments on both sides of Western Europe – in Ukraine and across the Atlantic – impact its choices? What are America’s stakes in NATO and Europe’s strategic dilemmas?
This program is presented by the Woman’s Club of Minneapolis through a partnership with Global Minnesota.
The Great Decisions program addresses some of the most critical foreign policy issues facing the United States each year. Global Minnesota facilitates the statewide Great Decisions program by providing access to a roster of local foreign policy experts and to discussion materials produced by the Foreign Policy Association.
Alan Carlson, presenter
Alan is retired Foreign Service Officer (FSO), who served with the US State Department from 1987 to 2012. He was posted to Sarajevo, Montenegro, Geneva, and Jamaica and served as an advisor to seven annual U.S. delegations to the U.N. He grew up in Bloomington, MN, and has a B.A. (US History) and JD from the University of Minnesota, as well as a Master’s of Military Studies from the Marine Corps University (Quantico, VA).
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Interested in joining or starting a Great Decisions discussion group? Listen to our past podcast episode to learn how!

Day Camp Nature Outing
2025-05-16 12:00 - 18:00 | Camp Fire Minnesota, 3300 Tanadoona Dr, Excelsior, MN, 55331, United States
This event is sold out. Please contact Jo Mattos at jmattos@globalminnesota.org with any questions.
This event is being held in-person and is open to international and globally-minded students.
Looking to get out and explore nature in Minnesota? International and globally-minded students can enjoy an authentic Minnesota half-day camp experience at the beautiful Camp Fire Minnesota, only 20 miles from Minneapolis. Students will enjoy outdoor games, a bonfire with hotdogs and s’mores, cold beverages, and more!
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to experience Minnesota’s outdoorsy traditions, connect with nature, engage with students from different universities, have a fun and relaxing time, and help make the world a better place.
Spots will be limited on a first come, first served basis. Transportation will be provided by Global Minnesota staff to and from the Global Minnesota office to Camp Fire Minnesota.
Agenda:
11:30 am: Arrive at Global Minnesota Office
12:00 pm: Departure from Global Minnesota
1:00 pm- Arrival at Camp Fire Minnesota
1:00-2:00 pm: Hotdog Roasting
2:00 – 3:30 pm: Explore the campground
3:30 – 5:00 pm: S’mores Bonfire & Outdoor Games
5:00 pm: Departure from Camp Fire Minnesota
5:45-6:00 pm: Arrival at Global Minnesota
Thanks to the Camp Fire Minnesota for their support on this event.
If you have questions or require an accessibility accommodation, please contact Jo Mattos at jmattos@globalminnesota.org.

AI and the Future of National Security
2025-05-19 18:00 - 19:15 | Ramsey County Library – Roseville, 2180 Hamline Ave. N, Roseville, MN, 55113, United States
This event is being held in-person and is open to everyone.
Artificial Intelligence is quickly reshaping foreign and domestic policy around the world. As machines increasingly replace tasks that required human input or intelligence, governments have struggled to effectively regulate these new tools. How can we better understand the impacts of AI and what are its implications for national security?
Join Global Minnesota for a conversation with Ren Bin Lee Dixon, an AI policy researcher and Global Minnesota’s newest Great Decisions Discussion Group speaker. She will discuss how these systems function and what we can do to make them safer and more effective for public use.
Speaker: Ren Bin Lee Dixon
Ren Bin Lee Dixon is an Artificial Intelligence policy researcher with a Master’s in Public Policy, specializing in AI governance, from the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota. As a Research Fellow at the Center for AI and Digital Policy, she provides policy recommendations to governments and multilateral organizations, including the U.K. Information Commissioner’s Office and UNESCO, shaping frameworks for responsible AI governance. Ren Bin has also collaborated with the Center for Security and Emerging Technology on policy briefs addressing AI harm. She has been invited to deliver guest lectures at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, where she speaks on pressing issues related to AI issues and governance. Prior to her policy career, Ren Bin accumulated over 15 years of international experience in the fashion industry, working in Malaysia, China, and Denmark. Her global experience has shaped a unique perspective that guides her nuanced approach to understanding and addressing the complexities, risks, and opportunities presented by AI.
Moderator: Christi Siver
Christi Siver is a Professor of Political Science at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University. She did her undergraduate work at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, OR, her Masters in International Relations and International Economics at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and her Ph.D. in political science at the University of Washington. She teaches courses on international relations and international security. Her current research interests include international humanitarian law, military technology, and comparative law.
Register
Please contact Melisa Gildner at mgildner@globalminnesota.org for questions or accessibility accommodations.

2025 Gala: In the Clouds
2025-05-31 17:30 - 21:30 | Metropolitan Ballroom & Clubroom, 5418 Wayzata Blvd., Golden Valley, MN, 55416
This event is being held in-person and is open to everyone. Registration is now closed! Please email aalbrecht@globalminnesota.org with any questions.
Climb to new heights with Global Minnesota at the 2025 In the Clouds Gala! Join us at the top of the world as we celebrate iconic mountains and a range of cultures including the Alps in Germany, Mt. Fuji in Japan, Sierra Madre in Mexico, Machu Picchu in Peru, and Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
This special evening offers a bird’s eye view of the world and includes fine international cuisine and entertainment, as well as the Tour the World live and online auctions. The Gala is a one-of-a-kind global celebration raising critical funds to support programs that connect, inform, and engage Minnesotans with the world.
Bidding is now open in the Tour the World online auction!
Event Details

Tickets include dinner, entertainment, and complimentary beverages.
Become an individual sponsor, which includes exclusive opportunities and benefits.
Invite your friends and host a table for 10.
Enhance your company’s global connections with a corporate sponsorship or table.
Free onsite parking
Mobile bidding will be used for the silent auction and open prior to the event. The online silent auction is open to all.
Semi-formal attire is suggested.

Unable to attend? You can still make a contribution to power great international programming here:
CONTRIBUTE NOW
Special thanks to Silver Sponsors Fredrikson, Jones Day, KNOCK, inc., and RBC Wealth Management and other corporate table hosts. We look forward to seeing you at the Gala!

Beach Time at Shady Oak
2025-06-20 14:00 - 17:00 | Shady Oak Lake, 5200 Shady Oak Rd, Minnetonka, MN, 55343, United States
This event is being held in-person and is open to international and globally-minded students. Registration is now CLOSED! Please email Jo Mattos at jmattos@globalminnesota.org or text her at +1 (636) 575-9670 with any questions.
Minnesota summer is all about lakes and making unforgettable memories—and this is your chance to enjoy it all with fellow international and globally-minded college students. Join Global Minnesota at Shady Oak Beach, one of the Twin Cities’ hidden gems and recently named one of the area’s best beaches by the Star Tribune. With 76 feet of soft sandy shoreline and the cool, clear waters of spring-fed Shady Oak Lake, it’s the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of the season.
Registration includes beach pass (normally $7), light snacks, and refreshing nonalcoholic beverages while supplies last. To stay comfortable, please remember to bring your own beach towel, sunscreen, water bottle, and any extra snacks you might enjoy.
Spots are limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis. Global Minnesota staff and volunteers will offer a limited number of car rides. We will also set up a WhatsApp group to coordinate rides and help students stay connected.
Agenda:
• 2:00 pm: Arrival and Check-in at Shady Oak Beach
• 2:00 – 2:30 pm: Relax & Explore
• 2:30 – 3:00 pm: Snack Time
• 3:00 – 3:30 pm: Speed Friending
• 3:30 – 4:50 pm: Beach Games
• 4:55 – 5:00 pm: Group Picture
If you have questions, require an accessibility accommodation, or if you are International Student and Scholar Services staff who would like to join, please contact Jo Mattos at jmattos@globalminnesota.org.

Get To Know Global Minnesota
2025-06-23 17:30 - 19:00 | KNOCK, Inc., 1307 Glenwood Ave., Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55405
This event is being held in-person and is open to everyone. New members and potential members are encouraged to attend. The location for this event has changed! Due to construction on University Avenue, the event will now be held at KNOCK, Inc. (1307 Glenwood Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55405).
Whether through K-12 education in Minnesota schools, global professional exchanges, grassroots discussion groups, international student initiatives, or high-level corporate roundtables, Global Minnesota offers hundreds of activities each year to people of all backgrounds across the state.
Come discover what Global Minnesota has to offer! Join our open house to meet some of Global Minnesota’s staff, learn about our programming, explore ways to participate, and discover what membership is all about.
Snacks, beverages, and a door prize will be provided. We hope to see you there.
Register Here
