Global Minnesota

Chinese Trade Insights and Networking
2017-10-10 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Brit’s Pub, 1110 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55403, United States
Join George Martin and Yiquang Li, from Faegre Baker Daniels, as they discuss China’s current strategy for expanding its global footprint and the country’s continuing efforts to encourage foreign investment. Learn more about China’s ambitious Belt & Road Initiative (“BRI”), in which one trillion dollars is expected to be invested in BRI regions over ten years. Also, look inside the booming Chinese e-commerce business that is leading to revolutionary changes in its own society and also those of other emerging markets.
About the Speakers
For more than 28 years, George Martin has dedicated his practice to assisting U.S. multinational businesses with their international mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and joint ventures, with a special focus on China. George has handled transactions and investigations in more than 40 countries, with an expertise in emerging markets, having lived and practiced law in China and Eastern Europe for five years. He is recognized in the Guide to Leading Practitioners: China as one of the pre-eminent practitioners with expertise in mergers and acquisitions involving China.
Yiquang Li (“Lee”) is a leading Chinese lawyer with a dual U.S. law degree, and is one of the few dually qualified Chinese lawyers who returned to China in the mid-1990s to help international firms facilitate foreign investment into China for their multinational clients. Lee advises companies conducting business in China on a wide range of transactional, operational and compliance matters.
This event is offered in partnership with GREATER MSP, Midwest Global Trade Association, the Minnesota District Export Council, the Minnesota Trade Office, and U.S. Commercial Service.

Online registration is closed. Please call 612.625.1662 to register.

Global Conversations ST. PAUL: Prospects for Afghanistan and Pakistan
2017-10-04 12:00 - 13:00 | Landmark Center, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
Online registrations for STP Global Conversations: Afghanistan and Pakistan are closed. Walk-ins are welcome.
Major internal conflict has plagued Afghanistan for four decades. The U.S., for its part, has conducted military operations in the country nearly continuously since 9/11. Today, war with the Taliban persists, and tensions between the U.S. and Pakistan have gradually deteriorated. As his time in office drew to a close, President Obama limited further withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan.
Newly laid-out plans from the Trump Administration for Afghanistan and the South Asia region have prompted national discussion and further questions. What’s next as we move forward in the new direction?
Don’t miss this conversation with Dr. Manju Parikh, who will offer considerable insight into the Trump administration’s proposed foreign policy efforts in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
About the Speaker
Dr. Manju Parikh is professor emerita of Political Science at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John’s University. Her teaching has been framed by a strong interest in the global issues of development, freedom and human rights. Dr. Parikh taught courses on international relations with a focus on Asian politics, global women’s political concerns and gender equality, and Asian American immigrant experiences. She has published in both scholarly journals and popular magazines and has presented at numerous conferences and public lectures. Dr. Parikh received a Fulbright Scholarship in 2009 for research on women legislators in Pakistan and their successful legislation against workplace sexual harassment. Currently, she serves on the boards of Middle East Peace Now and the Collection in Focus Guides Council at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.
Global Conversations in St. Paul is produced in partnership with the Landmark Center.

Young Professionals: Mentoring in a Global Workforce
2017-10-03 18:00 - 19:30 | Town Hall Brewery, 1430 Washington Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN, 55454
EVENT POSTPONED – Check back for a new date!
Hear from a group of international career professionals working across education, business, and nonprofit sectors about best practices in mentoring employees in the global market. There will be a short panel discussion followed by a Q&A session, plenty of time for networking, and of course, a pint of beer!
Panelists
– Amy Daly, Employee Relations and Compliance Manager, BRIDGES ERG, Ecolab
– Dawn Feldman, Executive Director and COO of Executive Education, Thunderbird
School of Global Management
– Kathleen Motzenbecker, Senior Vice President, The Medical Alley Association

Moderator
Jim Thomas, Principal, Dynamic Development LLC
The Minnesota Thunderbird Graduate School Alumni Network (now part of Arizona State University) will be joining this event as part of their Global 1st Tuesday event and will be available to discuss global education and careers for all attendees.
Registration includes one free pint of beer and appetizers.
This is a specially designated event. Members with a voucher can attend for free. Vouchers must be presented at the event. To register using a voucher, please call 612.625.1662.
Presented in partnership with Thunderbird School of Global Management, Twin Cities Tbirds

New Dinner Host Reception
2017-09-27 17:30 - 19:30 | Global Minnesota, 1901 University Ave. SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414
Online registrations for the Dinner Hosting Training event are closed.
New to dinner hosting? Join us for a special evening to learn more about hosting dinner for international visitors. Long time hosts will share best practices, tips and stories about entertaining international visitors. The evening will include light hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and an informative presentation.
Can’t make it to the reception but still want to host international visitors? Email our Professional Exchanges team at exchanges, or call 612.625.1662 to learn more.

Special Luncheon with the President of Finland
2017-09-22 11:00 - 13:30 | Hilton Minneapolis, 1001 S Marquette Ave, Minneapolis, MN, 55403, United States
Join Global Minnesota and the Economic Club of Minnesota for a special event featuring His Excellency Sauli Niinistö, president of the Republic of Finland, in celebration of Finland’s 100 anniversary.
Since it became an independent state on December 6, 1917, Finland has succeeded in building and maintaining a stable, democratic society. At the same time, creativity – the freedom to discover and try new solutions – has been the key to Finland’s economic and intellectual success. The anniversary represents Finland’s achievement in creating a unique voice for, and example of, democracy.
Presented in partnership with the Economic Club of Minnesota, the Minnesota Trade Office, and the Honorary Consulate of Finland in Minnesota.
The event includes a reception at 11:00 a.m. followed by a luncheon at 12:00 p.m.
About President Niinistö:

Sauli Väinämö Niinistö, the 12th President of the Republic of Finland, was inaugurated on March 1, 2012. He graduated from the University of Turku with a Bachelor of Law degree in 1974. Early in his career, he was a rural police chief, had his own law office and served as an assistant judge at the Turku Court of Appeals for more than ten years.
Niinistö was elected to the Town Council of Salo in 1977 and continued to hold elected posts in local government until 1992. In 1987 he was elected to the Parliament of Finland. Subsequently, he was appointed Minister of Justice and Deputy Prime Minister in 1994. A year later, he was appointed Minister of Finance. He was chairman of the National Coalition Party from 1994 to 2001.
In 2003, Niinistö assumed the post of Vice President of the European Investment Bank in Luxembourg. He returned to the Finnish Parliament in the 2007 election with the highest number of votes ever gained by a candidate. He was Speaker of Parliament from 2007 to 2011.
President Niinistö is married to Jenni Haukio and has two adult sons from his previous marriage. President Niinistö is active in sports and was also Chairman of the Finnish Football Association from 2009 to 2012 and Chairman of the organizing committee for the 2009 European Figure Skating Championships. He has written two books.
Registration will close on September 15 for security reasons.
Register HERE

Doing Business Globally: Addressing Tax and Legal Challenges
2017-09-19 08:00 - 10:00 | Dorsey & Whitney LLP, 50 South Sixth St., Suite 1500, Minneapolis, 55402
Are you considering expanding your operations overseas? The legal and tax considerations are intimidating but can be strategically managed with careful planning. This program will feature a technical discussion of the key legal and tax considerations of international expansion including form (exports, sales office, distributor, joint venture, subsidiary, etc.), financing, taxation of profits and exit strategy.
Please join us for a lively and candid discussion.

SPEAKERS
Chris Bercaw, Panelist
Partner, Corporate Group, Dorsey & Whitney LLP
Mr. Bercaw is based in Minneapolis, leads the firm’s Corporate Group in Minneapolis, and is active in the firm’s International practice. He has lived and worked in Asia, Europe and Latin America, and his practice includes corporate and commercial transactions, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, technology transactions and structuring international operations.
Dan Rosen, Panelist
Senior Manager, M&A Tax, KPMG LLP
Mr. Rosen is a senior manager in the Minneapolis office of KPMG LLP. Prior to joining the Minneapolis M&A tax practice, he worked in KPMG’s Washington National Tax-Corporate tax practice, as well as KPMG’s M&A tax practice in Chicago. Mr. Rosen has significant experience advising corporate and private equity clients on the US federal income tax consequences associated with a wide range of domestic and international transactions, including cross-border tax planning. Additionally, he has assisted clients in obtaining private letter rulings on issues relating to consolidated returns, tax free reorganizations and tax free spin-offs. Mr. Rosen also provides clients assistance with tax due diligence and structuring for potential acquisitions.
J. Robert Paulson,Panelist
President, CEO & Director, NxThera
Mr. Paulson has more than 20 years of experience in the medical device industry. Prior to joining NxThera as its president and chief executive officer in 2008, he was the president and CEO of Restore Medical from 2005 until the company’s acquisition by Medtronic in July of 2008. Mr. Paulson was the chief financial officer and vice president of global marketing for Endocardial Solutions prior to 2005. He also held management positions at Advanced Bionics, Medtronic and General Mills, and practiced law at Lindquist & Vennum.
Matt Lorenz, Moderator
Tax Partner, KPMG LLP
Mr. Lorenz is a tax partner in the Minneapolis office of KPMG LLP. He has more than 14 years of experience, all of which are with KPMG, directing the delivery of domestic and international tax services for a variety of public and private multinational organizations. From 2009 to 2011, Mr. Lorenz was seconded to the U.S. tax group in the U.K. member firm of KPMG International.
Rachel Limón, Panelist
Regional Trade Manager, Minnesota Trade Office
Ms. Limón serves as the director of Study Minnesota and is the regional trade manager for Latin America, Caribbean and Africa. She assists Minnesota companies in identifying and developing export strategies and opportunities in the international marketplace. Through her work at the MN Trade Office, Ms. Limón has led several trade missions, including Governor Ventura’s trade mission to China, and Governor Pawlenty’s trade missions to China, India and South America. She has assisted with Governor Dayton’s trade missions to Japan, Korea, China, and Europe and the Lt. Governor’s recent mission to Cuba. Ms. Limón has several years of international management experience, including working as an international distributor representative for Skyline Displays.
Frank Mortari, PhD, Panelist
Vice President for Corporate Development, Bio-Techne Corporation
Dr. Mortari serves as the vice president for Corporate Development for Bio-Techne Corporation, a Minneapolis-based public company (TECH) with a 40-year history of serving the research life science and diagnostic markets. He is an immunologist from Western University in London, Canada and has done post-doctoral research in neonatal immunoglobulin gene usage as well as in the field of homologous transplantation using benign stem cells from CML patients. Dr. Mortari has worked at Bio-Techne for 23 years in various capacities, including product development in different divisions and for the last 13 years as head of business development. Dr. Mortari leads M&A activities and strategic planning for the corporation.

Please register before September 14.

Presented in partnership with Dorsey & Whitney, the Minnesota Trade Office, and KPMG.

Register here

Year of China Launch
2017-09-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Frederick R. Weisman Art Museum, 333 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
Event registration is closed. Please see our calendar for other events.
This year marks the 35th anniversary of Minnesota’s Sister-State relationship with the Province of Shaanxi. In celebration, and as a kickoff to our Year of China, we are partnering with the Minnesota Trade Office and the University of Minnesota China Center in an official state welcome for a special delegation of Shaanxi provincial government officials and musicians from the Shaanxi Folk Music Orchestra.
You are invited to join us in an evening of music, food and friendship, featuring a special performance from these world-renowned musicians.

Special Guest
Jun Liu, Deputy Consul General from the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Chicago.

The event is part of the delegation’s three-day visit to Minnesota in recognition of 35 years of friendship, cooperation and exchange between Shaanxi and Minnesota, including the Shaanxi provincial government’s recent gift of boulders to the Landscape Arboretum’s new Chinese Garden.
Presented in partnership with the Minnesota Trade Office and the University of Minnesota China Center.

About the Orchestra:
Established in 1950, the Shaanxi Provincial Radio and Television Folk Orchestra is based in the ancient imperial capital Xian, the starting point of the Silk Road. One of the earliest national folk music orchestras, it has nurtured numerous musicians and composers who have received national and international awards. The Orchestra, representing the Chinese Ministry of Culture, has performed its special Shaanxi folk music in major orchestra halls in more than ten countries around the world to the highest acclaim.

Global Conversations MINNEAPOLIS: Geopolitics of Energy
2017-09-13 18:00 - 19:00 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Policies to ensure the security of energy supply and access have long been domestic and foreign policy priorities for the United States and will remain so, including for the health of our economy. Looking ahead, however, two developments will increasingly affect how energy and foreign policy come together. The first is climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in concert with others. A second is rapid change in global markets driven by new, large-scale consumers in China, India, and elsewhere and the rise of wind, solar, and other, increasingly cheap renewables. How do these factors come together, and what will be the main areas of focus of US foreign energy policy in the years to come?
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with former Ambassador to Turkey Ross Wilson as he discusses these factors and their effect on foreign policy.
About the Speaker
Ambassador Ross Wilson is a distinguished fellow at the Atlantic Council, visiting lecturer in international affairs at the George Washington University, and Global Minnesota board member. Over the course of a 30-year career in the U.S. Foreign Service, he served as American ambassador to Turkey and Azerbaijan and held assignments at the U.S. Embassies in Moscow and Prague and at the U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne, Australia. In Washington, Ambassador Wilson held several positions including chief U.S. negotiator for the Free Trade Area of the Americas. In 2010-2014, Ambassador Wilson served as director of the Atlantic Council’s Dinu Patriciu Eurasia Center, where he led the Council’s work on the former Soviet states, Turkey, and regional energy and economic issues and organized the Council’s annual Energy and Economic Summit in Istanbul. Ambassador Wilson received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and master’s degrees from Columbia University and the U.S. National War College. He is a recipient of the president’s Meritorious Service Award, as well as numerous Department of State awards and honors.
Global Conversations in Minneapolis is produced in partnership with the Friends of the Minneapolis Central Library.
Online registrations for Global Conversations: Geopolitics of Energy are closed. Walk-ins are welcome.

Global Conversations ST. PAUL: Geopolitics of Energy
2017-09-13 12:00 - 13:00 | Landmark Center, 75 5th St. W, St. Paul, MN, 55102
Policies to ensure the security of energy supply and access have long been domestic and foreign policy priorities for the United States and will remain so, including for the health of our economy. Looking ahead, however, two developments will increasingly affect how energy and foreign policy come together. The first is climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in concert with others. A second is rapid change in global markets driven by new, large-scale consumers in China, India, and elsewhere and the rise of wind, solar, and other, increasingly cheap renewables. How do these factors come together, and what will be the main areas of focus of US foreign energy policy in the years to come?
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with former Ambassador to Turkey Ross Wilson as he discusses these factors and their effect on foreign policy.
About the Speaker
Ambassador Ross Wilson is a distinguished fellow at the Atlantic Council, visiting lecturer in international affairs at the George Washington University, and Global Minnesota board member. Over the course of a 30-year career in the U.S. Foreign Service, he served as American ambassador to Turkey and Azerbaijan and held assignments at the U.S. Embassies in Moscow and Prague and at the U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne, Australia. In Washington, Ambassador Wilson held several positions including chief U.S. negotiator for the Free Trade Area of the Americas. In 2010-2014, Ambassador Wilson served as director of the Atlantic Council’s Dinu Patriciu Eurasia Center, where he led the Council’s work on the former Soviet states, Turkey, and regional energy and economic issues and organized the Council’s annual Energy and Economic Summit in Istanbul. Ambassador Wilson received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota and master’s degrees from Columbia University and the U.S. National War College. He is a recipient of the president’s Meritorious Service Award, as well as numerous Department of State awards and honors.
Global Conversations in St. Paul is produced in partnership with the Landmark Center.
Online registrations for Global Conversations: Geopolitics of Energy are closed. Walk-ins are welcome.

A Foreign Service Briefing from Nigeria
2017-08-15 14:30 - 16:00 | Humphrey School of Public Affairs, Room 25, 301 19th Ave. S, Minneapolis, MN, 55455
NOTICE: The date for this program has changed to Tuesday, August 15.
For members and their guests only; space is limited.
Get the latest news from Nigeria as U.S. Foreign Service Officer Lawrence Foster shares his experience of working in Lagos during his first diplomatic assignment.
Nigeria’s largest city and one of the fastest growing urban areas in Africa, Lagos has seen quite a bit of movement over the last 18 months. Just now back in Minnesota, Lawrence will share his insights on this fascinating and challenging region, including developments on Boko Haram, environmental issues, trade, democracy, and ethnic tensions.
Join us for this members-only program as we catch up on the news from Nigeria. Want to attend but not yet a member? Check out the many benefits of membership and join today!
About the Speaker
Lawrence (Larry) Foster is a U.S. Foreign Service Officer, who just returned from Lagos, Nigeria, where he was the Deputy Immigrant Visa Chief for Mission Nigeria and also reported on wildlife trafficking and environmental issues. His next assignment will be Shanghai, China after a year in Washington, D.C. learning Chinese Mandarin. Prior to joining the Foreign Service, Larry spent nearly 10 years in Minneapolis with U.S. Bank in various marketing and product roles. A graduate of CUNY Baruch College, he is originally from the New York City area where he worked for Standard & Poor’s and Citibank before moving to Minnesota. Larry has traveled to all 50 U.S. states and nearly 50 countries.

Global Social with International Visitors
2017-08-10 17:30 - 19:30 | Weber Shandwick, 510 S Marquette Ave., 13F, Minneapolis, 55402
Online registration is closed. Please call us at 612.625.1662 to be added to the event.
For members and their guests only.
In August, Global Minnesota welcomes a group of leading international visitors from more than 10 European countries who will visit Minnesota to:

Connect with young innovators and learn how they use entrepreneurship to broaden economic and educational opportunity and empower disadvantaged populations
Examine community-based efforts and public-private partnerships that foster civic engagement and build trust between local communities, law enforcement, and legal institutions
Engage political experts, academics, government officials, journalists, and activists regarding global peace and security and the role young people play in shaping political discourse

Countries represented: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, and 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.
Want to attend but not yet a member? Check out the many benefits of membership and join today!
Presented in partnership with Weber Shandwick.

Global Conversations: Nuclear Security
2017-08-09 18:00 - 19:30 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Online registration is closed. Walks-ins welcome.
Nuclear nonproliferation was a top priority for the Obama administration. While the Iran Deal was a diplomatic victory toward this end, major threats persist from both state and non-state actors. Countries like North Korea, Russia, and India and Pakistan continue to challenge nonproliferation efforts. The possibility that terrorists will carry out an attack using a “dirty bomb,” made from captured nuclear materials, looks increasingly real.
Join us for a conversation with Augsburg College Professor Joseph Underhill, Ph.D., about the way forward for U.S. nuclear security policy.
About the Speaker
Professor Joseph Underhill teaches courses in environmental politics, international relations, and political methodology at Augsburg College. From 2010-2012, he served as the Batalden Faculty Scholar in Applied Ethics, engaging the campus on the theme of “seeking justice where we live” and teaching courses related to youth movements and social change, especially in Muslim communities both in Minneapolis and in the context of a trip to Egypt to study the effects of the revolution there. He directs the International Relations Program and Model United Nations programs at Augsburg and takes students to New Zealand, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Egypt, and Tanzania. He also serves as the campus faculty representative for the Nobel Peace Prize Forum, co-hosted each year by Augsburg College.
Presented in partnership with the Friends of the Minneapolis Central Library.

On the Field with the Minnesota United
2017-07-19 19:00 - 21:00 | TCF Bank Stadium, 420 SE 23rd Ave., Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55455
Online registration is closed. Tickets can be purchased by calling 612.625.1662.
Cheer on the Minnesota United FC as they match up against the Houston Dynamo on Wednesday, July 19. Enjoy a summer evening out and post-game meet-and-greet with players.
Following the game, which takes place one day before Colombian Independence Day, guests of Global Minnesota and Integración Cultural Colombiana en Minnesota have the exclusive opportunity to meet team forward – and fan favorite! – Colombian-American Christian Ramirez, whose consistent contributions to Minnesota United’s success earned him three-straight NASL Best XI awards.
Tickets are located in the Maroon section of TCF Bank Stadium.
New Member Special
Become a new Global Minnesota member at the $75 level and receive 2 FREE tickets to the soccer match and meet-and-greet on July 19. Global Minnesota members receive discounts on our public events and invitations to private member-only events. Join us as we explore the world. Register below to become a member and receive your free tickets!*
*Value of goods received through this special is $40. The remainder of your membership contribution is tax deductible.

Global Conversations: African Folktales to Contemporary Authors
2017-07-12 18:00 - 19:30 | Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Online registration is closed. Walks-ins welcome.
From ancient oral traditions to contemporary literature, African stories reflect wisdom, cultural identities, and social values developed over countless generations. Join us, St. Olaf College Associate Professor Joseph Mbele, and Augsburg College Associate Professor Mzenga Wanyama for an exploration of how these stories find expression today, both in Africa and in the African diaspora.
Speakers
Joseph Mbele, Associate Professor of English at St. Olaf College, is a folklorist and author. His writings, including Matengo Folktales, illuminate the underlying values that shape cultures. Dr. Mbele has done fieldwork in Kenya, Tanzania, and the U.S., and has given lectures and presented conference papers in Canada, Finland, India, Israel, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and the U.S. After earning a Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin and before coming to St. Olaf in 1990 to teach post-colonial and third-world literature, he taught in the Literature Department at the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Over the years, he has taught courses such as Swahili Literature, Theory of Literature, African Literature, Sociology of Literature, Postcolonial and Third World Literature, The Epic, and African-American Literature.
Mzenga Aggrey Wanyama, Associate Professor of English at Augsburg College, was born and raised in Kenya where he received his bachelor’s of education and master’s degrees from the University of Nairobi and then taught English language and literature in Kenyan High schools and at Kenyatta University. In the United States, he had a two-year stint in the graduate program at Howard University in Washington, D.C. before attending the University of Minnesota where he earned a Ph.D. in English. Mzenga also worked as an Assistant Professor of English at St. Cloud State University where he taught courses in literature and writing. His areas of focus are Postcolonial theory and literature and African American literary history.
Presented in partnership with the Friends of the Minneapolis Central Library.

Trade Insights and Networking
2017-07-10 18:00 - 19:30 | Surly Brewing Co., 520 Malcolm Ave. SE, Minneapolis, 55414
Online registration is now closed. Walk-ins welcome.
Want to meet globally-focused business leaders and enjoy some of Minnesota’s best locally-brewed beer? Then join us for an evening of global trade insights, networking, and socializing at Surly Brewing Co.
Speaker
In addition to good beer and great networking, John Cooney, Senior Advisor at the U.S. Department of Commerce, will share insights into the Trump administration’s international trade priorities.
In his role as Senior Advisor for the Office of the Under Secretary for the International Trade Administration (ITA) within the U.S. Department of Commerce, John advises the Under Secretary on specific programs, policy, and administration matters. He works closely with ITA Senior Leadership. John recently served as the Budget and Administration Public Events Manager for the Presidential Inaugural Committee and prior to that was a partner at Minneapolis-based Fallbrook Communications.
This event is offered in partnership with GREATER MSP, Midwest Global Trade Association, the Minnesota District Export Council, the Minnesota Trade Office, and U.S. Commercial Service.
Registration includes one drink ticket and heavy hors d’oeuvres from Surly’s award-winning menu.

Celebration of Colombia Gala
2017-06-17 16:30 - 20:30 | Orono High School Parking Lots, 795 Old Crystal Bay Road North, Orono, 55356
Online registration is closed. Onsite registration will be available, with limited seating.
Rich in tradition with a diverse history, Colombia has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years that has placed the nation on a path to peace and prosperity.
Join us for our annual fundraising gala as we explore Colombian culture, highlight U.S.-Colombia relations, and connect Minnesotans to our South American partner. Featuring fine Colombian cuisine and entertainment as well as the Tour the World live and silent auctions, the gala is set to be a one-of-a-kind Colombian celebration.
This unique cultural and fundraising event draws more than 300 of Global Minnesota’s well-traveled supporters and raises critical funds for ongoing educational and cultural programs designed to help Minnesotans live, work, and lead globally.
Event details

Various ticket and sponsorship packages are available.
Held at a private residence in the West Metro – rain or shine.
Parking is available at the Orono Schools parking lots – 795 Old Crystal Bay Road North, Orono/Long Lake, MN 55356.
Shuttles will be available throughout the evening to drive guests to and from the event space.
Semiformal attire is suggested. The gala is an outdoor event held in a tent on the lawn of a private home, so please keep this in mind when selecting your footwear.

Should severe weather be predicted, stay tuned to your email and Global Minnesota’s website for weather-related updates.
To receive a full refund, you must cancel your registration by June 2, 2017. 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.

Film Screening in St. Paul: Colombia Magia Salvaje
2017-06-02 19:00 - 20:30 | 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
