Global Minnesota

Film Screening in St. Paul: Colombia Magia Salvaje
2017-06-02 19:00 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | Metropolitian State University, Film Space in Founders Hall, 700 East 7th St., St. Paul, MN, 55106, United States
Online registration closed. Walk-ins welcome.
Experience the amazing creatures and landscapes of Colombia through a new lens. Colombia Magia Salvaje is an ambitious documentary that explores the country’s natural wonders and unique biodiversity. Through stunning cinematography, you’ll enter the depths of the Pacific Ocean, on the Island of Malpelo, follow the tracks of the Lost City in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, and accompany the flight of the condor in El Cocuy. A tribute to the beauty of Colombia, Magia Salvaje covers 85 locations and 20 ecosystems. It’s a must-see for adventure seekers and lovers of this natural paradise.
Representatives from Integración Cultural Colombiana en Minnesota will discuss the award-winning success and cultural impact of Magia Salvaje.
Presented in partnership with Integración Cultural Colombiana en Minnesota and Metropolitan State University. “Colombia Magia Salvaje” is part of the Open Screen Film Series. Open Screen is funded in part by a Knight Arts Challenge Grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.

Love, Africa: Insights from Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist
2017-05-30 17:30 - 19:00 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Online registration closed. Walk-ins welcome.
A seasoned war correspondent, Jeffrey Gettleman has covered every major conflict over the past 20 years, from Afghanistan to Iraq to the Congo. For the past decade, he has served as the East Africa bureau chief for The New York Times, fulfilling a longtime dream.
Based in Kenya, Gettleman recently completed his memoir “Love, Africa,” which bears witness to his time in one of the most turbulent regions of the world and tells a revealing story about finding a calling – and love.
Join us for a special program with Gettleman as he shares his “Love, Africa” story and discusses the impact of U.S. policies in East Africa. The evening will include a short reading and presentation of his memoir, and in-depth discussion and Q&A with the audience, moderated by Mshale founder and publisher Tom Gitaa.
Following the program, Gettleman will sign copies of his new book, which can be preordered through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or IndieBound, and will be available for purchase at the event.
About the Speaker
Jeffrey Gettleman is The New York Times’ East Africa bureau chief and a winner of the Pulitzer Prize in 2012 for international reporting. His work has appeared in National Geographic, GQ, Foreign Policy, and The New York Review of Books, and he has appeared as a news commentator on CNN, BBC, PBS, NPR, ABC, and the Charlie Rose show. Gettleman studied philosophy at Cornell University before winning a Marshall Scholarship to study at Oxford. He is the author of “Love, Africa,” his recent memoir about his experiences in Africa.
About the Moderator
Tom Gitaa is founder and publisher of the award-winning Mshale newspaper, one of the largest news outlets serving African immigrants in the Midwest. He works with numerous nonprofits and trade associations and is current board secretary of the Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium and board member of Books for Africa. Tom was born and lived in Kenya before moving to Minnesota for college, where he earned a bachelor’s degree from Metropolitan State University.
Presented in partnership with Books for Africa, Feed My Starving Children, GHR Foundation, the Hennepin County Library, Ka Joog, and Mshale.

Opportunities in a Vibrant Region: Doing Business in Latin America
2017-05-23 08:00 - 10:00 | Dorsey & Whitney LLP, 50 South Sixth St., Suite 1500, Minneapolis, 55402
With a population of 633 million people and a combined GDP more than $5.3 trillion, Latin America is an economic global power, yet boom and bust cycles, political instability, and income inequality have made the region challenging for foreign and domestic companies alike. This year, economists are forecasting a return to economic expansion, with Argentina and Brazil coming out of recessions and accelerated growth in Chile, Colombia, Peru, Central America, and the Caribbean, despite protectionist rumblings in the United States and elsewhere.
Please join us for a discussion on the opportunities and challenges facing Minnesota companies doing business in Latin America, with insights from Bepex, Cargill, and Ecolab.
Topics will include:

Economic and political climate of the Latin American region
Impacts of trade agreements, both current and future
Legal, tax and accounting issues
Cultural insights

Register
Panelists

Juan Basombrio, Partner, Trial Group, Dorsey & Whitney LLP
Pilar Cruz, Corporate Vice President, Corporate Strategy & Development, Cargill, Inc.
John Guttery, Senior Vice President & President of Latin America, Ecolab Inc.
Mark Johnson, Product Specialist, Bepex International LLC
Alfonso Pallete, Principal, KPMG LLP, Miami

Panel moderated by Chris Bercaw, Partner, Corporate Group, Dorsey & Whitney LLP.
Produced in partnership with Dorsey & Whitney LLP, KPMG LLP, and the Minnesota Trade Office.

Culture Through Cuisine: Colombia
2017-05-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Cafe Racer Kitchen, 2929 East 25th St., Minneapolis, MN, 55406
This event is SOLD OUT. Online registration is now closed.
Small in size but big on flavor, Café Racer Kitchen is blending Latin American cuisine with a focus on fresh local ingredients. What started as a food truck, Café Racer is now a thriving restaurant serving up delicious, healthy, Latin American cuisine with a strong Colombian focus. Join us at their restaurant in the Seward neighborhood for our next Culture Through Cuisine where we’ll dine on grilled sweet corn with cilantro aioli and cheese; seafood paella; saffron roasted chicken with criollo rice and yucca frita; roasted vegetables, black beans, and rice empanadas with cilantro and Sriracha aioli; and more!
Hear chef and owner, Luis Patino, talk about Café Racer’s history ― a labor of love inspired by his Colombian heritage.
Registration includes dinner, non-alcoholic beverages, tax, and gratuity.

Ukraine at a Crossroads: A Conversation with Ambassador Chaly
2017-05-15 18:00 - 19:30 | Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, 301 19th Ave. S, Minneapolis, 55454
Online registration is closed. Walk-ins welcome.
Caught between East and West, Ukraine has been a flashpoint in the increasingly tense relationship between Russia and the United States. In a conversation with former U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and Global Minnesota board member Ross Wilson, Ambassador of Ukraine Valeriy Chaly will discuss the internal and external forces that will affect not only Ukraine’s future but also the stability and security of the entire region.
About the Speaker
Ambassador Chaly’s public career has spanned more than two decades. Previously, he served as Deputy Head of the Administration of President Petro Poroshenko following his foreign policy advisory during Poroshenko’s presidential campaign. Ambassador Chaly also supervised the foreign policy, international law, and security programs at a leading Ukrainian think tank, the Razumkov Centre. He holds a degree from Vinnytsia State Pedagogical University, Department of History and a postgraduate degree in international law studies from the Institute of International Relations, National Taras Shevchenko University in Kyiv.
Presented in partnership with the Humphrey School of Public Affairs, Minnesota Trade Office, Ukrainian-American Chamber of Commerce Minnesota, and Ukrainian-American Cultural Center.

Global Conversations: Saudi Arabia in Transition
2017-05-10 18:00 - 19:30 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Online registration is closed. Walk-ins welcome.
As Saudi Arabia struggles to adjust to the drastic decline in oil revenue, Deputy Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman attempts to boldly transform the country and shift more power to the younger generation. At the same time, many countries such as the U.S. point out the lack of democracy, women’s rights and human rights in Saudi Arabia, and blame its promotion of Wahhabism, an extremely conservative version of Islam, for creating jihadists. Both countries need each other, but they are at a crossroads in bilateral relations.
On the heels of a recent trip to Saudi Arabia, former U.S. Foreign Service Officer Tom Hanson will discuss the fragile – but important – relationship.

Global Trade Insights and Networking
2017-05-09 17:30 - 19:30 | CRAVE – Edina Galleria, 3520 W 70th St., Edina, MN, 55435
Online registration closed. Walk-ins welcome.
International trade is a vital part of the Minnesota and U.S. economy. In recent months, global trade has received greater publicity and public scrutiny. Providing information to employees and stakeholders at all levels about how international trade supports and grows your business is a key factor in addressing the image of global trade.
John Engelen, Vice President of Government Affairs for CHS, will discuss how his company reaches through its organizational structure to impress the importance of trade and keep stakeholders engaged on trade issues and policy.
Join us for a conversation with John Engelen followed by time for networking, at CRAVE in the Edina Galleria, in partnership with Greater MSP, the Minnesota District Export Council, the Minnesota Trade Office, and U.S. Commercial Service.
Speaker
John has more than 25 years of experience leading public policy initiatives at the federal, state, and local level. Most recently, he served as Vice President, Office of Governmental and Community Affairs at Emory University, where he focused on policy issues, including healthcare, higher education, research, energy, food safety, public and global health, animal welfare, and transportation. Prior to joining Emory University, John directed federal relations for the University of Minnesota where he implemented a comprehensive program to advance advocacy for the land-grant research university. He has also held government relations positions at two Fortune 500 companies and served on U.S. Senator Dave Durenberger’s (R-MN) legislative policy staff in Washington, D.C. John serves on the Board of Directors for the National Cooperative Business Association, the Public Affairs Council, the Waterways Council, and the Agricultural Council of California. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Registration includes two drink tickets and hors d’oeuvres.
Presented in partnership with Greater MSP, the Minnesota District Export Council, the Minnesota Trade Office, and U.S. Commercial Service.

Film Screening in Eden Prairie: Colombia Magia Salvaje
2017-05-02 18:30 - 20:00 | The International School of Minnesota, 6385 Beach Road, Eden Prairie, MN, 55344
Online registration is now closed. Walk-ins welcome.
Experience the amazing creatures and landscapes of Colombia through a new lens. Colombia Magia Salvaje is an ambitious documentary that explores the country’s natural wonders and unique biodiversity. Through stunning cinematography, you’ll enter the depths of the Pacific Ocean, on the Island of Malpelo, follow the tracks of the Lost City in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, and accompany the flight of the condor in El Cocuy. A tribute to the beauty of Colombia, Magia Salvaje covers 85 locations and 20 ecosystems. It’s a must-see for adventure seekers and lovers of this natural paradise.
Representatives from Integración Cultural Colombiana en Minnesota will discuss the award-winning success and cultural impact of Magia Salvaje.
What’s even better? Attendees will be entered to win four tickets to see the Minnesota United take on Sporting Kansas City on Sunday, May 7. Must be present to win.
Presented in partnership with Integración Cultural Colombiana en Minnesota, the International School of Minnesota, and Metropolitan State University.

Colombia: The Path to Peace with Ambassador Pinzón
2017-04-24 12:00 - 13:30 | Minneapolis Club, 729 2nd Ave. S, Minneapolis, 55402
Online registration is now closed.
In November 2016, the Colombian Congress ratified a peace accord designed to end more than 50 years of civil war with the country’s largest rebel group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, or FARC. For his efforts to promote this agreement, Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos was awarded the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize.
Join us for a luncheon presentation with Ambassador of Colombia Juan Carlos Pinzón, who will discuss the challenges that lie ahead for the effective implementation of the peace accord, and the ways this newly-achieved peace might affect Colombia’s ongoing partnership with the United States on trade promotion, environmental protection, and regional security.
Juan Carlos Pinzón became Ambassador of Colombia to the United States in 2015. Previously, he served as Minister of Defense of Colombia. Under his leadership, the Armed Forces dealt the most severe blows to terrorist organizations, which was critical to President Santos’ Peace Strategy. Prior to serving as Defense Minister, Pinzón was Chief of Staff to President Santos and Vice Minister of Defense. In 2011, the World Economic Forum selected him as a Young Global Leader. In addition to his longstanding dedication to advancing national and regional defense issues in Colombia, he specializes in economics, public policy, and strategic studies and has held positions at the World Bank, Citibank, and Citigroup. A native of Bogotá, Colombia, Pinzón received his master’s degree from Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs and completed advanced coursework at Johns Hopkins University and Harvard University.
Event vouchers accepted. To register with a voucher, please call us at 612.625.1662. You must bring voucher(s) to the event to redeem.

Urban Expedition: Myanmar
2017-04-23 13:00 - 15:00 | Landmark Center, Main Floor Atrium, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
Travel the globe without ever leaving the state, with Urban Expedition! Designed for everyone to enjoy, Urban Expedition offers the opportunity to learn about the world right in St. Paul. With a focus on a different destination country, each program in the series provides authentic cultural experiences that include music, dance, crafts, and traditions. It’s an ideal event for families or anyone wanting to put a stamp in their passport.
Join us and Landmark Center as we travel to Myanmar (Burma) in April.
Learn More

Urban Expedition is produced by Landmark Center and presented in partnership with Global Minnesota.

Global Conversations MINNEAPOLIS: Conflict in the South China Sea
2017-04-13 18:00 - 19:30 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Online registration for this event is closed. Walk-ins welcome.
The South China Sea is a locus of competing territorial claims, and China its most vocal claimant. Beijing’s interest has intensified disputes with other countries in the region in recent years, especially since China has increased its naval presence. Despite rising international pressure, including an unfavorable ruling by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, China staunchly defends its policies in the region. Preventing tensions from boiling over is a matter of careful diplomacy.
Join us for a conversation, with Professor Duncan McCampbell, on what is being done to promote diplomacy and prevent tensions from boiling over in the region.
Professor McCampbell is an American lawyer and professor of international business and law at Metropolitan State University in Minneapolis, where he also serves as MBA Program Director. Following 14 years—much of it abroad—with the Westlaw division of Thomson Reuters, he has a professional background in non-U.S. legal systems. He teaches law and business in China and travels extensively in Asia. He also writes on global commercial, legal, political, and security issues, and recently returned from a one-month visit to China and the Philippines to research the evolving situation in the South China Sea. In addition to teaching, Professor McCampbell leads a business consultancy that helps companies enter new markets overseas.
Global Conversations in Minneapolis is produced in partnership with the Friends of the Minneapolis Central Library.

Global Conversations ST. PAUL: Conflict in the South China Sea
2017-04-13 12:00 - 13:00 | Landmark Center, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
Online registration is closed. Walk-ins welcome. There is still space in the Minneapolis version of this program. Click here to register.
The South China Sea is a locus of competing territorial claims, and China its most vocal claimant. Beijing’s interest has intensified disputes with other countries in the region in recent years, especially since China has increased its naval presence. Despite rising international pressure, including an unfavorable ruling by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea, China staunchly defends its policies in the region. Preventing tensions from boiling over is a matter of careful diplomacy.
Join us for a lunchtime conversation, with Professor Duncan McCampbell, on what is being done to promote diplomacy and prevent tensions from boiling over in the region.
Professor McCampbell is an American lawyer and professor of international business and law at Metropolitan State University in Minneapolis, where he also serves as MBA Program Director. Following 14 years—much of it abroad—with the Westlaw division of Thomson Reuters, he has a professional background in non-U.S. legal systems. He teaches law and business in China and travels extensively in Asia. He also writes on global commercial, legal, political, and security issues, and recently returned from a one-month visit to China and the Philippines to research the evolving situation in the South China Sea. In addition to teaching, Professor McCampbell leads a business consultancy that helps companies enter new markets overseas.
Global Conversations St. Paul is produced in partnership with Landmark Center.

Urban Expedition: Togo
2017-04-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Landmark Center, Main Floor Atrium, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
Travel the globe without ever leaving the state, with Urban Expedition! Designed for everyone to enjoy, Urban Expedition offers the opportunity to learn about the world right in St. Paul. With a focus on a different destination country, each program in the series provides authentic cultural experiences that include music, dance, crafts, and traditions. It’s an ideal event for families or anyone wanting to put a stamp in their passport.
Join us and Landmark Center as we travel to Togo in April.
Learn More

Urban Expedition is produced by Landmark Center and presented in partnership with Global Minnesota.

Global Social with International Women of Courage
2017-04-03 17:30 - 19:30 | Minneapolis Club, 729 2nd Ave. S, Minneapolis, 55402
Online registration is closed. Please call us at 612.625.1662 to be added to the event.
Global Minnesota is proud to host the following two recipients of this year’s U.S. Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award.

Sister Carolin Tahhan Fachakh from Syria is a Roman Catholic nun who runs a school for traumatized children and teaches vocational skills to vulnerable women. She was nominated by the Vatican for her ongoing service to refugee communities and children, and her work focuses on education and protection of children; internally displaced persons and refugee rights; and women’s economic empowerment.
Ms. Jannat Al Ghezi from Iraq is Deputy Director of Organization of Women’s Freedom in Iraq, a women’s NGO that helps survivors of gender-based violence, especially domestic violence, by offering shelter, training, protection, and legal services. Her work focuses on gender-based violence (survivors and protection) and honor killings; and advocacy to advance women’s rights.

Established in 2007, the annual U.S. Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award honors women around the globe who have exemplified exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for human rights, women’s equality, and social progress, often at great personal risk. This is the only Department of State award that pays tribute to emerging women leaders worldwide.
Join us for the opportunity to meet these extraordinary women and learn about the change they are implementing across the globe. The evening includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages. Cash bar available.
This event is produced in partnership with GHR Foundation and with support from GHR and the Katherine W. Merriam family.
Photo credit: The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, U.S. Department of State

Culture Through Cuisine: Caribbean
2017-03-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Marla’s Caribbean Cuisine, 3761 Bloomington Ave., Minneapolis, MN, 55407
Spicy jerk chicken, stew oxtails, paratha roti, and Trinidadian fruit medley are all specialty dishes you’ll find at Marla’s Caribbean Cuisine and on the menu for our next Culture Through Cuisine. In 2005, Marla Jadoonanan achieved her lifelong dream of opening a Caribbean restaurant based on the flavors of her native Trinidad and Tobago and with a deep Indian influence. Since then, Marla’s has received numerous awards including Mpls.St.Paul Magazine’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2014.
Hear Marla speak about her early days of learning to cook and the enormous flavors she’s serving up from her tiny kitchen in South Minneapolis.
Marla Jadoonanan was born in Princes Town, Trinidad and Tobago and moved to Northeast Minneapolis with her family when she was 15. Marla’s passion for cooking began at a young age when her father would take her down to the village and she would cook with the other ladies. If you ask her, she doesn’t have any recipes, just a little bit of this and a little bit of that. Of course, her main ingredient is always lots of love!
Registration includes dinner, non-alcoholic beverages, tax, and gratuity.
Photo credit: Uchefotography

Urban Expedition: Colombia
2017-03-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Landmark Center, Main Floor Atrium, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
Travel the globe without ever leaving the state, with Urban Expedition! Designed for everyone to enjoy, Urban Expedition offers the opportunity to learn about the world right in St. Paul. With a focus on a different destination country, each program in the series provides authentic cultural experiences that include music, dance, crafts, and traditions. It’s an ideal event for families or anyone wanting to put a stamp in their passport.
Join us and Landmark Center as we travel to Colombia in March.
Learn More

Urban Expedition is produced by Landmark Center and presented in partnership with Global Minnesota.

The Role of Women in the Global Agenda
2017-03-09 18:30 - 20:00 | Walker Art Center – Skyline Room, 725 Vineland Place, Minneapolis, MN, 55403
Online registration is now closed. Please call 612.625.1662 to be placed on the event list.
On Wednesday, March 8, the world will recognize International Women’s Day, an opportunity to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Yet, critical questions are being raised about the role of women in boardrooms, the halls of government, and rural communities around the world. For example, in terms of global agriculture, women produce half the world’s food, put in two-thirds of the world’s working hours, and yet make only 10 percent of the world’s income. Women are marching, organizing, and convening – looking for ways to continue to advance equality.
To mark International Women’s Day, join us for a discussion with leaders from politics, business, and civil society on The Role of Women in the Global Agenda. Keynote remarks will be provided by CARE USA President and CEO Michelle Nunn.
This event is sponsored by Cargill and in partnership with CARE USA.

Global Conversations ST. PAUL: Trade and Politics
2017-03-09 12:00 - 13:00 | Landmark Center, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
The U.S. political mood toward trade has gone sour. One need look no further than the 2016 presidential contest for the popular narrative: trade means that China wins, at America’s expense. But do the numbers support that conclusion? The metrics used to gauge economic strength—Gross Domestic Product and balance of trade—have not kept up with the realities of modern manufacturing. Obtaining an accurate picture of U.S. economic stature requires a critique of those numbers.
Join us for a lunchtime conversation with Professor Varadarajan V. Chari on the development of appropriate policy solutions for the challenges at hand.
Professor Chari is the founding director of the Heller-Hurwicz Economics Institute, the Paul Frenzel Land Grant Professor of Liberal Arts in the University of Minnesota Department of Economics, and an adviser at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. He received a bachelor of technology from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay and his Ph.D. from Carnegie-Mellon University. He has served on the Board of Editors of many journals, including Econometrica, the Journal of Economic Literature, and the Journal of Economic Perspectives. In 1998, he was elected fellow of the Econometric Society and was named Scholar of the College by the College of Liberal Arts, University of Minnesota, in 2008. His research interests are in banking, fiscal and monetary policy, and on issues of economic development.
Global Conversations in St. Paul is produced in partnership with the Landmark Center.

Global Conversations MINNEAPOLIS: Trade and Politics
2017-03-08 18:00 - 19:30 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Online registration is now closed. Walk-ins welcome.
The U.S. political mood toward trade has gone sour. One need look no further than the 2016 presidential contest for the popular narrative: trade means that China wins, at America’s expense. But do the numbers support that conclusion? The metrics used to gauge economic strength—Gross Domestic Product and balance of trade—have not kept up with the realities of modern manufacturing. Obtaining an accurate picture of U.S. economic stature requires a critique of those numbers.
Join us for a conversation with Professor Varadarajan V. Chari on the development of appropriate policy solutions for the challenges at hand.
Professor Chari is the founding director of the Heller-Hurwicz Economics Institute, the Paul Frenzel Land Grant Professor of Liberal Arts in the University of Minnesota Department of Economics, and an adviser at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. He received a bachelor of technology from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay and his Ph.D. from Carnegie-Mellon University. He has served on the Board of Editors of many journals, including Econometrica, the Journal of Economic Literature, and the Journal of Economic Perspectives. In 1998, he was elected fellow of the Econometric Society and was named Scholar of the College by the College of Liberal Arts, University of Minnesota, in 2008. His research interests are in banking, fiscal and monetary policy, and on issues of economic development.
Global Conversations in Minneapolis is produced in partnership with the Friends of the Minneapolis Central Library.

Colombian Trade Insights and Networking
2017-02-28 17:30 - 19:30 | CRAVE – Edina Galleria, 3520 W 70th St., Edina, MN, 55435
Online registration is now closed. Walk-ins welcome.
Global Minnesota, Greater MSP, and the Minnesota District Export Council invite you to attend a networking event, at CRAVE in the Edina Galleria, highlighting trade in one of Latin America’s most dynamic markets, Colombia.
Speaker Update
We are pleased to be joined by guest speaker Erik Brand, Director, Corporate Program and Publisher, Latin America Advisor, with the Inter-American Dialogue.
Erik Brand publishes the Latin America Advisor at the Inter-American Dialogue and directs the Corporate Program. He previously worked at the International Advisory Group, a publishing and public affairs firm in New York City. Earlier in his career, Brand worked at the Advisory Board Company in Washington and, briefly, for the Congressional Research Service at the Library of Congress. He graduated with a double major, summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, from Wheaton College and has undertaken master’s degree coursework in international management and public affairs at the University of Maryland and the University of Minnesota.
Registration includes two drink tickets and hors d’oeuvres.
Presented in partnership with Greater MSP and the Minnesota District Export Council.

Latin America: Prospects for Peace and Progress
2017-02-22 19:00 - 20:30 | Humphrey School of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota, 301 19th Ave. S, Minneapolis, 55454
From peace in Colombia to new approaches to U.S.-Cuba relations, the rapidly changing news out of Latin America brings both hope and uncertainty. For more than three decades, the Inter-American Dialogue has worked to foster democratic governance, prosperity, and social equity in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Inter-American Dialogue President Michael Shifter will examine a host of regional challenges – including trade and economic development, security and drug policy, and international migration – and discuss the ways governments, organizations, and individuals throughout the region are working together to meet these pressing issues.
Moderator: John Rash, Star Tribune Editorial Writer and Columnist
In addition to his role as president of the Inter-American Dialogue, Michael Shifter has been adjunct professor at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service since 1993, where he teaches Latin American politics. Mr. Shifter writes and talks widely on U.S.-Latin America relations and hemispheric affairs. His recent articles have appeared in major U.S. and Latin American publications such as The New York Times, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Policy, The Washington Post, The Los Angeles Times, Journal of Democracy, Harvard International Review, Clarin, O Estado de S. Paulo, and Cambio, and he is co-editor, along with Jorge Domínguez, of Constructing Democratic Governance in Latin America, published by Johns Hopkins University Press. Prior to joining the Inter-American Dialogue, Mr. Shifter directed the Latin American and Caribbean program at the National Endowment for Democracy and, before that, the Ford Foundation’s governance and human rights program in the Andean region and Southern Cone where he was based in Lima, Peru, and subsequently, in Santiago, Chile.
Produced in partnership with the Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota.

Global Social with International Visitors
2017-02-16 17:30 - 19:30 | Minneapolis Club, 729 2nd Ave. S, Minneapolis, 55402
For Global Minnesota members and their guests only.
More than 20 international visitors from across the globe will travel to Minnesota as part of two exchange programs focused on cultivating leadership in young women and exploring the impact of the electoral process and political activism on gender equality. Be part of this exclusive event for Global Minnesota members and their guests to meet these professionals and learn about their cultures, countries, and work…in an informal social setting.
Join us for an evening of conversations and connections as we welcome visitors from a variety of countries including Bangladesh, Botswana, Jordan, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, Russia, Rwanda, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, and Uganda. The evening includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages. Cash bar available.
Global Socials are made possible by a generous gift in honor of Katherine W. Merriam.

Urban Expedition: Switzerland
2017-02-12 13:00 - 15:00 | Landmark Center, Main Floor Atrium, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
Travel the globe without ever leaving the state, with Urban Expedition! Designed for everyone to enjoy, Urban Expedition offers the opportunity to learn about the world right in St. Paul. With a focus on a different destination country, each program in the series provides authentic cultural experiences that include music, dance, crafts, and traditions. It’s an ideal event for families or anyone wanting to put a stamp in their passport.
Join us and Landmark Center as we travel to Switzerland in February.
Learn more
Urban Expedition is produced by Landmark Center and presented in partnership with Global Minnesota.

Global Conversations MINNEAPOLIS: The Future of Europe
2017-02-09 18:00 - 19:30 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Registration is now closed. Walk-ins welcome.
The outcome of the United Kingdom referendum on EU membership sent shockwaves across the globe. It even caught British voters by surprise. The European Union has helped secure peace in Europe for the past 70 years. Now it faces an uncertain future. Amid a refugee crisis, lingering financial recession, and the constant specter of terrorism, unity seems more imperative than ever. But the Brexit vote underscores the complexities of integrating an extremely diverse continent.
Join us for a conversation with foreign policy expert, Bill Davnie, on what post-Brexit Europe will look like and how can U.S. foreign policy adapt.
Bill Davnie served as a U.S. Department of State Foreign Service Officer from 1981 to 2007. His postings included Hong Kong, Thailand, USSR/Russia, Tajikistan, Lithuania, and Finland, as well as four months in Baghdad in 2007. Since retirement, he has traveled to Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Morocco, South Korea, and Cambodia. Prior to the Foreign Service, he researched Islam and taught for one year in Indonesia, and served as a Presbyterian pastor for five years in rural North Dakota.
Global Conversations in Minneapolis is produced in partnership with the Friends of the Minneapolis Central Library.

Global Conversations ST. PAUL: The Future of Europe
2017-02-09 12:00 - 13:00 | Landmark Center, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
This program is SOLD OUT. Walk-ins welcome. There is still space in the Minneapolis version of this program. Click here to register.
The outcome of the United Kingdom referendum on EU membership sent shockwaves across the globe. It even caught British voters by surprise. The European Union has helped secure peace in Europe for the past 70 years. Now it faces an uncertain future. Amid a refugee crisis, lingering financial recession, and the constant specter of terrorism, unity seems more imperative than ever. But the Brexit vote underscores the complexities of integrating an extremely diverse continent.
Join us for a lunchtime conversation with foreign policy expert, Bill Davnie, on what post-Brexit Europe will look like and how can U.S. foreign policy adapt.
Bill Davnie served as a U.S. Department of State Foreign Service Officer from 1981 to 2007. His postings included Hong Kong, Thailand, USSR/Russia, Tajikistan, Lithuania, and Finland, as well as four months in Baghdad in 2007. Since retirement, he has traveled to Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Morocco, South Korea, and Cambodia. Prior to the Foreign Service, he researched Islam and taught for one year in Indonesia, and served as a Presbyterian pastor for five years in rural North Dakota.
Global Conversations in St. Paul is produced in partnership with the Landmark Center.

2017 U.S. Foreign Policy Update
2017-01-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
This event is SOLD OUT. Please call 612.625.1662 to be placed on the waitlist.
Join us for the ever-popular annual U.S. Foreign Policy Update with Diplomat in Residence and former career Foreign Service Officer, Tom Hanson. Tom will explore and explain the latest foreign policy developments, trends, and challenges facing the U.S. and next president in the upcoming year, including nuclear security, international trade, and U.S. relations with China and Latin America. This timely and thought-provoking presentation is recommended for anyone interested in international relations.
Tom Hanson’s U.S. Foreign Service postings included East Germany, France, Norway, the Soviet Union, Sweden, and the former Soviet Republic of Georgia. Currently, Tom serves as Diplomat in Residence at the University of Minnesota – Duluth and is a frequent Global Minnesota speaker. He is also a board member of the Oslo Center for Peace and Human Rights, U.S. Foundation.
Event vouchers accepted; Advance registration and pre-payment required.

Finland in Focus with Ambassador Kauppi
2017-01-13 12:00 - 13:30 | Minneapolis Club, 729 2nd Ave. S, Minneapolis, 55402
Since the end of World of War II, the United States and Finland have enjoyed an enduring partnership and friendship focused on building cultural and economic ties with one another. Throughout the decades, Finland has contributed to the advancement of technology and research, promotion of international economic development, and the defense of human rights and peace. And the U.S. has welcomed Finland’s integration into Western economic and political structures. In 1994, Finland joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s (NATO) Partnership for Peace program and was designated a NATO Enhanced Opportunity Partner at the 2014 Wales Summit.
Ambassador of Finland Kirsti Kauppi will visit Minnesota to speak about the important relationship between our two nations, the active and close transatlantic dialogue on a wide range of issues, and the upcoming 100th anniversary of Finland’s independence.
Since joining Finland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1983, Ambassador Kauppi has held a successful career in public service including diplomatic posts in Bangkok, Brussels, Berlin, and Vienna. Prior to her current post, Ambassador Kauppi was Director General for Political Affairs at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs in Helsinki. In addition to her native Finnish, Ambassador Kauppi is fluent in English, Swedish, German, and French and is an avid reader of history.
Join us, and the Finnish community in Minnesota, in welcoming Ambassador Kauppi and hear her talk at our public three-course luncheon.
Want to use a voucher?

To register with a voucher, please call us at 612.625.1662. Two vouchers may be used at one program for a $20 discount. You must bring voucher(s) to the event to redeem.

Presented in partnership with Finn Source.

Global Conversations: Cuba and the U.S.
2016-12-14 18:00 - 19:30 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Registration is now closed. Walk-ins welcome.
The U.S. announced in December 2014 that, after decades of hostility, it would begin taking major steps to normalize relations with Cuba. The announcement marked a dramatic shift away from a policy that has its roots in the Cuban revolution of 1959. In March 2016, this historic shift was officially set in motion by President Barack Obama’s visit to Cuba ― the first trip by a sitting president in 88 years.
Gary Prevost, political science professor at the College of Saint Benedict/Saint John’s University, will discuss how American and Cuban leaders today are trying to find common ground on issues of mutual interest even as they continue to see the world through very different lenses.
Gary Prevost received his Ph.D. in political science from the University of Minnesota and has published widely on Latin America and Spain, including “Cuba: A Different America,” coedited with Wilber Chaffee; “United States–Cuban Relations—A Critical History,” co-authored with Esteban Morales; and numerous articles and book chapters on Nicaragua and Spanish politics. His research on Latin America has been supported by a number of grants, including a Fulbright Central American Republics Award.
Produced in partnership with the Friends of the Minneapolis Central Library.

Global Social with International Women Leaders
2016-12-12 17:30 - 19:00 | University Club – Saint Paul, 420 Summit Ave., Saint Paul, MN, 55102, United States
This program is SOLD OUT.
For members and their guests only.
This December, Global Minnesota welcomes a group of women leaders promoting peace and security. While in Minnesota, these extraordinary women will examine the current and historical roles of women in political transitions, post-conflict reconstruction, humanitarian emergencies, conflict prevention, and peacemaking efforts.
Countries represented include: Croatia, Macedonia, Moldova, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.
Be part of this exclusive event for Global Minnesota members and their guests to meet these professionals and learn about their cultures, countries, and professional work…in an informal social setting. The evening includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres and non-alcoholic beverages, and a cash bar.
Global Socials are made possible by a generous gift in honor of Katherine W. Merriam.

WorldQuest International Trivia Competition
2016-12-09 19:00 - 22:00 | McNamara Alumni Center – University of Minnesota, 200 Oak St. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
Registration is now closed.
Be part of our annual battle of international wits, WorldQuest international trivia competition. Pull together a team of eight and brush up on your knowledge of flags, capitals, geography, people in the news, current events, 2016 Great Decisions topics, and Global Minnesota’s focus country – Colombia.
Paying attention? What is the only South American country to have coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea?
Join us in December to find out the answer to this question and put your team one point ahead of the competition.
Featuring
Tom Crann, of All Things Considered for MPR News, will return as host.
Details

College and university students can play for a discounted price
Don’t have a team? Register as an individual and we’ll pair you up with stellar teammates.
Door prizes will be awarded throughout the evening, as well as a special prize for best team spirit!
Light dinner provided. Cash bar available, which opens at 6:30 pm.

Presented in partnership with the University of Minnesota Global Programs & Strategy Alliance.
If a refund is necessary, you must cancel your registration by November 18, 2016. Refunds will be issued in the form of a check or credit card account credit. To cancel your registration and request a refund, please call us at 612.625.1662.
