News

Monitor | All U.S. resettlement agencies, including the International Institute of Minnesota, received an unprecedented Stop-Work Order on Friday, January 24, 2025. The Midway Como Frogtown Monitor spoke to Micaela Schuneman, the Institute’s Senior Director of Immigration and Refugee Services.

MPR News | Host Angela Davis and her guests talk about the federal refugee program and how the Trump administration directives are affecting refugee resettlement efforts in Minnesota. She spoke to Micaela Schuneman, the Institute’s Senior Director of Immigration and Refugee Services, about the impact.

In this month’s newsletter, you’ll learn about:

• The latest impact to our Refugee Services program
• New Math Academy and STEM careers support
• Client story: New American achieves dream of home ownership
• You’re invited! New Americans New Beginnings on May 7
• Meet our newest board members
• Know your rights
• Upcoming classes and job trainings

As a new arrival to the U.S. and Minnesota, Alessandro thought it would take years to build credit and qualify for home ownership. Last summer, however, he and his family purchased a cozy, two-bedroom home with guidance from a financial coach at the International Institute of Minnesota.

After meeting in the Institute’s Entrepreneurship class, Svitlana learned about Manoj’s company, Himalko Tea. As a lover of tea herself, and after tasting Manoj’s high-quality Nepalese product, Svitlana knew she wanted to share her marketing knowledge and expertise to help her new friend succeed.

When Emmy and Edwin walk across the stage to receive their college diplomas, their biggest cheerleaders will be right there: each other. The mother-son duo, originally from Tanzania, encourage each other as they both pursue the same dream of nursing careers.

Palpable joy and excitement filled the air as Mahamud embraced his wife and five daughters outside the airport baggage carousel after living apart for nearly eight years. Mahamud recounts his family’s journey to reunite in the U.S.

Star Tribune | President’s crackdown on immigrants and refugees has some members of the caregiving industry, and those who rely on it, on high alert. Star Tribune spoke with JP Holwerda, the Institute’s Senior Director of Workforce Development.

Twin Cities PBS – TPT | “Almanac” spoke with International Institute of Minnesota’s Senior Director of Immigration and Refugee Services, Micaela Schuneman, on the Refugee Admissions Program.