Centennial Gala program

About Our History

Established in 1918 by the YWCA and originally named the International Institute of Connecticut, the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) has provided a century of specialized services to refugees and immigrants seeking dignity and safety, peace and hope. In the early 1900s, 15 million people immigrated to the United States. Today, there are over 65 million displaced people globally. Resilient during changing times, we have consistently remained true to our mission to serve and empower new Americans to thrive in Connecticut, adapting our services to meet the evolving needs of generations of immigrants and refugees - Eastern Europeans in WWII, Southeast Asians during the Vietnam War, Bosnians fleeing the former Yugoslavia, and today, Congolese and Syrian refugees among many others.

A Century of New Beginnings A Centennial Gala Celebration Sunday, September 23, 2018 Inn at Longshore

About Our History

Established in 1918 by the YWCA and originally named the International Institute of Connecticut, the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) has provided a century of specialized services to refugees and immigrants seeking dignity and safety, peace and hope. In the early 1900s, 15 million people immigrated to the United States. Today, there are over 65 million displaced people globally. Resilient during changing times, we have consistently remained true to our mission to serve and empower new Americans to thrive in Connecticut, adapting our services to meet the evolving needs of generations of immigrants and refugees - Eastern Europeans in WWII, Southeast Asians during the Vietnam War, Bosnians fleeing the former Yugoslavia, and today, Congolese and Syrian refugees among many others.

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Our History

About

Established in 1918 by the YWCA and originally named the International Institute of Connecticut, the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) has provided a century of specialized services to refugees and immigrants seeking dignity and safety, peace and hope. In the early 1900s, 15 million people immigrated to the United States. Today, there are over 65 million displaced people globally. Resilient during changing times, we have consistently remained true to our mission to serve and empower new Americans to thrive in Connecticut, adapting our services to meet the evolving needs of generations of immigrants and refugees - Eastern Europeans in WWII, Southeast Asians during the Vietnam War, Bosnians fleeing the former Yugoslavia, and today, Congolese and Syrian refugees among many others.

Our Vision The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants envisions Connecticut as a place where new Americans may fully participate in our culturally diverse communities, where low-income families may have access to affordable immigration services and be reunited with family, where survivors of crime and persecution may have the resources needed to become self-supporting and healed and where ethnic diversity is valued as a cultural and economic strength by all.

Our Mission The Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants is a statewide nonprofit organization that assists refugees and immigrants resolve legal, economic, linguistic and social barriers so that they become self-sufficient, integrated and contributing members of the community.

CIRI achieves this mission by providing a compassionate array of highquality legal, social and educational programming and by promoting cross-cultural understanding and decent treatment for all.

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Welcome

Message from President & CEO and Board We are thrilled that you have joined us to celebrate our Centennial Gala! At the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI), we are very proud of our century of service to immigrants and refugees in Connecticut. Thank you for helping us mark this milestone.

For 100 years, CIRI has delivered high-impact, community-based legal and social services to immigrants, refugees, survivors of torture, survivors of human trafficking and unaccompanied minors. In the current climate, with evershifting anti-immigrant and anti-refugee policies, CIRI’s work is more critical than ever. We remain steadfast in our commitment to serve and empower immigrant communities, ensuring that our programs advance our mission and bring us closer to realizing our vision for Connecticut.

Tonight, we celebrate!

We celebrate our legacy, progress and impact. We honor our clients’ journeys and celebrate their resilience. We recognize some of the many people whose work and lives reflect their deep commitment to CIRI and our mission.

We are honored to present the Legacy Award to Farooq Kathwari, the Chairman, President and CEO of Danbury-based Ethan Allen Interiors, Inc., recognizing his commitment to humanitarian causes, justice and human dignity, and the plight of displaced people around the world.

Our Circle of Achievement Award honors our collaboration and partnership with Fairfield University’s Center for Faith and Public Life, and all that The Center does to uplift young refugees and provide them with positive life-changing experiences. Our inaugural American Dream Awards recognize ten exceptional individuals and businesses, each of whom embodies the American Dream.

We hope you enjoy every moment of tonight’s celebration!

Our impact and our success are possible because of you. Thank you for being part of CIRI’s first century. There is still much work to be done and we are grateful to have you stand alongside us for the journey.

Thank you for your continued support.

Claudia Connor, President & CEO James Rulmyr, CIRI Board Chair

Music

P rogram

We Are One, The African Families Synergy Singers

Welcome

Claudia Connor President & CEO, CIRI

American Dream Award

Presented by Claudia Connor Presented to Dr. Anil Britto, Maggie Lehnerd-Reilly, Evelyne Mukasonga & Francis Kalangala, Sue Ingall, Donna Petrone, Brewport Brewing Co., Gilbertie’s Herbs and Garden Center, Norwalk Powdered Metals, Inc., Rings End, The Westport Inn

Circle of Achievement Award

Presented by Claudia Connor Presented to Fairfield University’s Center for Faith and Public Life

Centennial Toast Dinner CIRI Client Testimonials

Omar Lukole Arlene Angel Trejo with Interpretation by Alicia Kinsman, Esq.

CIRI Legacy Award

Presented by Jack Leslie, Chairman, Weber Shandwick Presented to Farooq Kathwari, Chairman, President and CEO, Ethan Allen Interiors, Inc. Remarks by Farooq Kathwari

Live Auction Jack Leslie

Closing Remarks Claudia Connor

Music

We Are One, The African Families Synergy Singers

Tonight’s Dinner Portuguese, Polish, Russian Immigrants Welcomed

YWCA Establishes International Institute of Connecticut

IICONN Becomes an Independent Organization Italians & Eastern Europeans from WWII Resettled

Refugee and Immigration Legislation Enacted

IICONN Opens Project Rescue & Survivor Services

Southeast Asian Immigrants Seek Political Asylum

Thousands Resettled from Former Yugoslavia

Rebrand: CT Institute for Refugees & Immigrants

We celebrate CIRI’s clients who come to America from over 100 countries around the world. We hope you enjoy the array of international flavors of tonight’s hors d’oeuvres and dinner.

Hors d’Oeuvres Classic Margherita and Bianca Dolce Pizza (Italy) White Bean and Classic Tomato Bruschetta with Crostini, Assortment of Meats and Cheeses, Artichoke Hearts & Roasted Peppers, Breads & Olive Oil, Hummus & Pita, Pickled Vegetables (Mediterranean/Southern Europe) Mini Bratwurst Panini (Germany and Poland) Fish & Chips (Ireland) Samosas (Pakistan & India) Vietnamese Summer Rolls (Vietnam) Falafel in Pita (Middle East) Steak Tostadas and Avocado Fries with Spicy Lemon Aioli (Latin America) Beef Suya (West Africa) Crispy Cauliflower Bites with Tzatziki (North Africa) Ensalada Chopped Romaine, Roasted Corn, Cherry Tomato, Pickled Red Onion, Avocado Queso Fresco, tossed with a Lemon Agave Vinaigrette (Latin America) Rolls & Butter Entrée Seared Filet Mignon with Mahi Berbere with Roasted Asparagus, Whipped Sweet Potato topped with Longshore Chermoula Sauce (Ethiopia, Eritrea and North Africa & Middle East) Dessert Assorted International Sweets A vegetarian, gluten-free entrée is available upon request. Please inform your server if you would like this option.

Speakers

Claudia Connor is the President & CEO of the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants. Claudia has close to thirty years of program management, advocacy, legal, and strategic leadership experience in the non-profit sector in the United States, Africa and Southeast Asia. Prior to coming to CIRI, Claudia worked at Save the Children on the Strategic Foundation Partnerships team; at the International Refugee Committee as a Senior Technical Advisor in the Governance & Rights Unit, US Programs Regional Director, and as Director of National Refugee Resettlement Programs. In Africa and Southeast Asia, Claudia worked with UNICEF and the Carter Center, among other agencies, on issues ranging from child trafficking and child soldiers, women’s rights, juvenile justice and HIV/AIDS. Before moving overseas in 1998, Claudia was a senior trial attorney with the Legal Aid Society in New York City. She has her JD from Brooklyn Law School and a BA from UNC Chapel Hill.

We Are One, The African Families Synergy Singers– African Families Synergy is a volunteer-operated nonprofit organization founded in 2008 by Evelyne Mukasonga and Francis Kalangala. It is dedicated to helping refugees and immigrants access resources needed to govern their lives, strengthen their families and communities, and exert a positive influence on their new communities.

African Families Synergy’s We Are One program focuses on supporting immigrant and refugee youth to develop and accomplish their individual goals, pursue their unique passions and interests, invest in their communities, share talents, and serve others. This evening’s singers are: Yerinda Sango, Khadidja Huruma, Appoline Asuku, Thamar Kalangala, Louise Mlembinge and Evelyne Kalangala.

Speakers

Omar Lukole was born and raised in Rwanda where his family lived as refugees after fleeing the Democratic Republic of Congo. In September 2013, Omar and his family arrived in Bridgeport where they were resettled by CIRI. Omar graduated from Bassick High School in 2017 and enrolled in an engineering program at Housatonic Community College.

Now in his second year at Housatonic, Omar also works fulltime at Mossberg & Sons, Inc. in North Haven. He lives with his mother, four brothers and one sister in Bridgeport.

Arlene Angel Trejo was born and raised in Mexico with her siblings and her parents. In 2001, Arlene came to the United States after having been recruited for work as a nanny and housekeeper. She eventually came to live in Connecticut where she married her long-time partner. Arlene and her spouse now live with their two daughters in Hartford, CT where they were just recently able to purchase their own home. When they are not working, Arlene and her husband enjoy spending time with family and friends as well as watching their daughters perform as part of a local Mariachi group.

Speakers

Jack Leslie is Chairman of Weber Shandwick, one of the world’s leading global communications and engagement firms. A strategic communications executive, political consultant and international development activist, Jack brings a long track record of helping clients integrate global political, economic, cultural and communication trends to create innovative, forward-looking strategy and plans. Some of the companies he has counseled include American Airlines, Bank of America, GE, HP, Johnson & Johnson, MasterCard, Merck & Co, Microsoft, Nestle, Novartis, PepsiCo, Pfizer, Siemens, Unilever and YUM! Jack is one of the pioneers of stakeholder engagement and political consulting. He has been involved as a communications and political strategist in many of the most highly visible campaigns on three continents over the past 30 years. He was also instrumental in developing successful reputation and public policy campaigns for the credit card, food biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.

Jack was appointed by President Obama in 2009 to serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the U.S. African Development Foundation.

He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, former Chairman of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Advisory Committee on Voluntary Foreign Aid, Chairman of Duke Global Health Institute’s Board of Advisors and a member of the Board of the Ron Brown Scholar Program. Jack is also a member of the board of advisors for the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, a member of the InterAction Business Council Advisory Board, a trustee of the Circumnavigators Foundation and former Chairman of the Board of USA for UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency).

Jack began his career as an aide to Senator Edward Kennedy, serving as his political director and as Executive Director of the Fund for a Democratic Majority. He joined Sawyer Miller Group, a prominent political consulting firm, in 1983 and became President of the company in 1985. During the 1980’s and 1990’s, Jack provided political counsel to dozens of presidential and statewide campaigns in the United States, Latin America, Asia and Africa.

Jack is a graduate of the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service.

Awardees

LEGACY AWARD

Farooq Kathwari is the Chairman, President and CEO of Ethan Allen Interiors Inc. He has been president of the company since 1985, and Chairman and CEO since 1988.

Mr. Kathwari serves in numerous capacities at several nonprofit organizations. He is a member of the Board of Overseers of the International Rescue Committee; a member of the advisory board of the Center for Strategic and International Studies; a member of the Council on Foreign Relations; Chairman Emeritus of Refugees International; an advisory member of the New York Stock Exchange; former Chairman of the National Retail Federation; Director Emeritus and former Chairman and President of the American Home Furnishings Alliance; a director of the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at Georgetown University; Co-Chairman of the Muslim-Jewish Advisory Council; and a member of the International Advisory Council of the United States Institute of Peace. He also serves on the boards of the Western Connecticut State University Foundation, The Hebrew Home at Riverdale, and ArtsWestchester. He is the founder of the Kashmir Study Group, and he served as a member of the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders from 2010 to 2014.

Among his recognitions, Mr. Kathwari is a recipient of the 2018 Ellis Island Medal of Honor and has been inducted into the American Furniture Hall of Fame. He has been recognized as an Outstanding American by Choice by the U.S. government. He has received the Yale School of Management’s Chief Executive Leadership Institute Lifetime of Leadership Award; the New American Dream Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award; the Eleanor Roosevelt Val-Kill Medal; the National Human Relations Award from the American Jewish Committee; the International First Freedom Award from the Council for America’s First Freedom; Ernst & Young’s Entrepreneur of the Year Award; the Anti-Defamation League’s Humanitarian Award, among others. He was recognized by Worth magazine as one of the 50 Best CEOs in the US. Mr. Kathwari holds BAs in English Literature and Political Science from Kashmir University, Srinagar, and an MBA in International Marketing from New York University, New York. He is also the recipient of three honorary doctorate degrees.

Awardees

CIRCLE OF ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

The Fairfield University’s Center for Faith and Public Life (CFPL), anchored in Jesuit tradition and Catholic Social Teaching, is committed to advancing the Common Good by improving the social conditions to allow for the full flourishing of individuals and society.

Through multi-disciplinary academic research, engaged teaching, and events, the Center offers students the opportunity to immerse themselves in service learning and immersion experiences, and faculty to creatively develop their classes to have the most impact on real world situations. The Center seeks to: • Prepare students to become compassionate global citizens, able to put their knowledge into action in support of social good.

• Generate research-based solutions for current social problems local, national, and global.

• Provide a public forum for engaging issues where faith and public life intersect.

Recognized as a major contributor to the national debate on migration policy, CFPL has successfully led research projects that provide insight to the nuanced challenges for undocumented students in higher education. CFPL is helping to shape a new model for constructive dialogue on contentious issues within a faith-based framework.

The Center has built a strong partnership with CIRI, actively engaging CIRI in dialogues, panel discussions and fora around critical issues of humanitarian importance. The cornerstone of CIRI’s partnership with The Center is the Refugee Youth Mentor Program, through which refugee middle and high school students travel to Fairfield U weekly to connect with undergraduates, practice English, gain confidence and build friendships. The Refugee Youth Mentor Program has transformed the lives of many of CIRI’s younger clients, exposing them to possibilities they had not imagined. CFPL’s leadership recognized the impact of this program and demonstrated its commitment to social justice and social action by giving the program a lasting home within The Center, ensuring that dozens more refugee youth and Fairfield U students will have the transformative opportunity to connect, grow and learn from one another.

Awardees

AMERICAN DREAM AWARD

This year, on its 100th anniversary, CIRI presents its inaugural American Dream Awards. CIRI’s American Dream Awards recognize individuals or groups that exemplify, embody or provide access to another person’s achievement of the American Dream.

Employers of CIRI Refugee Clients – Each of these businesses has employed CIRI’s refugee clients. In several cases, the employers have hired multiple refugees and reached out to CIRI when they had openings. Their employment of refugees has a profoundly transformative impact on the refugees, providing them with so much more than a job. Employment brings economic stability, self-esteem, and socio-economic opportunity to the refugee and his/her entire family.

Brewport Brewing Co. – Enriching lives with thin crust pizza, gourmet salad, and Connecticut style beers so amazingly great, that staff and guests keep coming back for more.

225 South Frontage Rd, Bridgeport, CT. 06604 · Tel: (203) 612-4438 www.brewportct.com Gilbertie’s Herbs and Garden Center – Offering a wide selection of annuals and perennials, extensive landscape products, renowned USDA Certified Organic herbs and vegetables.

7 Sylvan Lane, Westport CT 06880 · Tel: 203.227.4175 www.gilbertiesherbs.com Norwalk Powdered Metals, Inc. – Since 1957, setting powdered metal industry standards with a variety of design options, superior quality production and cost effective pricing.

30 Moffitt St, Stratford, CT 06615 · Tel: 203-338-8000 www.norwalkpm.com Ring’s End – A family-owned company, offering a wide variety of premium product options and professional services, helping customers realize their aesthetic visions. Sample centers, showrooms and lumberyards in multiple locations in CT · www.ringsend.com The Westport Inn – Since 1960, offering a boutique hotel with 117 rooms and suites, sophisticated meeting and event space, and the FrenchAmerican inspired cuisine at Bistro B. 1595 Post Road East, Westport, CT 06880 · Phone: 203-557-8124 www.westportinn.com

Awardees Dr. Anil Britto, MD, pediatrician with Ridgefield Pediatrics in Ridgefield, CT, has training in pediatrics that extends across many countries and with diverse populations. He graduated from St. John’s Medical College in Bangalore, India in 1987. He completed his pediatric training at the University of London and his pediatric residency at St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York. Dr. Britto’s own journey embodies the American Dream.

Donna Petrone, CIRI DOJ Accredited Legal Caseworker, a Bridgeport native, has worked at CIRI, formerly IICONN, for 31 years. In 1987, while attending Butler Business School Executive Secretary Program, Donna was offered a position at CIRI helping to type applications during the 1986 Amnesty Program.

A year later, she was hired as the Administrative Assistant to Myra M. Oliver, former Executive Director, with whom Donna worked closely until Mrs. Oliver’s passing in July 2008. Donna earned her credentials as a Legal Caseworker and has worked within CIRI’s Immigration Legal Services for 10 years. Donna has served thousands of clients over the years including multiple generations within families.

Evelyne Mukasonga & Francis Kalangala, Community Leaders and African Families Synergy Founders, are from Rwanda and Congo, respectively. Evelyne arrived in Bridgeport in March 2000 followed by Francis in September 2001 where they live with their 6 children. Having navigated the challenges of resettling as refugees in a new country and community, Francis and Evelyne established African Families Synergy, www.africasynergy.org, in June 2008 to assist and support the families of newly arriving refugees and immigrants from Africa, helping dozens of families make a smooth and supported transition.

Maggie Lehnerd-Reilly, CIRI Pro Bono Attorney, received her B.A. in Peace and Justice Studies from Wellesley College and then spent three years teaching with Teach for America in Phoenix, AZ. Her experience working in an immigrant community in Phoenix inspired her to attend UCLA law school through the J. Epstein Program in Public Interest Law and Policy. She has been a volunteer with CIRI since 2015. Each fall, winter and spring, she delivers a creative and engaging curriculum for CIRI’s U.S. Citizenship class.

Sue Ingall, CIRI Volunteer, is a graduate of Dickinson College. She lived in Europe and Asia for much of her life with her family, working in international advertising. In Weston, she became involved with CIRI in 2011, when she sought new beneficiary partners for her church, Norfield Church. What started as an annual service day, blossomed into the creation of the refugee house set-up team where Norfield (with four other churches) transforms empty apartment units into furnished loving homes for incoming refugee families.

Auction

2 Tickets to The Band’s Visit, Dinner with the Original Producer & Meet the Cast Enjoy The Band’s Visit—winner of 10 Tony awards, including Best Musical. Have dinner beforehand with Neil Pepe & meet the cast backstage.

Dinner with Leading Human Rights Activist & Signed Mia Farrow Photo

Dinner for 12 & private discussion with Jen Marlow—author of An Hour of Sunlight, I am Troy Davis, & The Darfur Diaries plus producer of Rebuilding Hope. Hosted at a private home & includes a personalized photograph by Mia Farrow.

Summer Adventure Week at Okemo 1-week stay (7/26-8/2) in a penthouse apartment with 3 bedrooms & 2.5 baths on the Jackson Gore Mountainside at Okemo (sleeps up to 10).

Amenities include indoor & outdoor pool, mountain coaster, bungee jumping, hiking trails, indoor gym, racquetball, & tennis courts with Okemo Valley Golf club adjacent.

2 House Seats to Hamilton

Hamilton is the winner of 11 Tony Awards, the 2016 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album and 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. As Hamilton says to the Marquis de Lafayette, “We’re immigrants. We get the job done.”

Auction

Dinner & VIP Tickets for 2 to The Daily Show with Trevor Noah

Described as “wickedly funny,” Trevor Noah is lauded for his unique, insightful take on current events and his consistently sold-out shows. VIP tickets mean no lines.

Oceanfront Vacation Home in Maine Enjoy a serene retreat for a week on the Coast of Mount Desert Island— perfect for college reunions & family gatherings! One-week stay available fall 2018 to winter 2019 (June-Sept.

2019 excluded). Built in August 2012, this comfortably furnished home sleeps 8 and sits on the edge of Duck Cove, overlooking Blue Hill Bay. Enjoy coffee or cocktails on the private dock!

Breakfast & Private Senate Tour with US Senator Richard Blumenthal

Senator Blumenthal will host breakfast and a private tour for 8 of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, DC. Senator Blumenthal serves on the Committee on Veteran’s Affairs, the Committee on the Judiciary, the Committee on Armed Services & the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

Tickets & Dinner for 2 for Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon

See a taping of the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon at Rockefeller Center followed by dinner.

Comedy, music, conversation & competitions, plus the Grammywinning house band, the Roots!

Auction

Robert Longo. Untitled (Barbara in a Burka), 2015, signed Archival Pigment Print, based on a charcoal drawing, 27 5/8 x 19 5/8 inches. Edition VIII/XX. Robert Longo (b. 1953) is a New York-based artist, filmmaker, and musician.

His provocative works in diverse disciplines—drawing, photography, painting sculpture and performance and film—critique the effects of capitalism, mediated wars, and the cult of history in the US. Recognized worldwide, his work is represented in major museums and private collections, including the collections of the Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim Museum and the Whitney Museum of American Art, in New York; the Art Institute of Chicago; the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and The Broad Collection, in Los Angeles; the Menil Collection in Houston; the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam; the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris; the Albertina in Vienna; and the Ludwig Museum in Cologne. In 2005, Longo was the recipient of the Goslar Kaiserring, and in 2010 he was inducted as Officier de L’ordre des Art et des Lettres by the French Minister of Culture.

Robert Longo lives and works in New York.

Benefit Sponsors

PARTNER

Benefit Sponsors AMBASSADOR

Pete & Lynne Penczer, Penczer Properties, Acoma Trading Corp.

HUMANITARIAN

Charmaine and John Panikar Stephen & Nancy Fuzesi ADVOCATE

Benefit Patrons

We are very grateful to our benefit patrons for supporting CIRI with the purchase of a table.

Ethan Allen Interiors (2 tables) Joan Frost (2 tables) Antignani & Maresca P.C. Debbie and Alan Steckler Fairfield University’s Center for Faith & Public Life Gary Holmes Maggie Lehnerd-Reilly

MUSIC & DÉCOR The background music this evening is a compilation entitled American Songbook, comprised of classic songs sung by artists including Tony Bennett, Nile Rogers, Carly Simon, Harry Connick Jr., Amy Winehouse, Jamie Callum, Rod Stewart and many others. Many thanks to Gaby Chautin for this splendid compilation!

Around the room are photos of CIRI clients from the past and present.

The front hallway features portraits and oral histories from An American Story, an exhibition collaboratively designed by CIRI and The Fairfield Museum and History Center. A special thanks to Gay Empson, Gaby Chautin, Sue Ingall, Laurie Lamarre, and Caroline Pech Leslie for transforming the space with images that illustrate CIRI’s history over the years.

A special thanks to Charlotte Stone and Tracy Pennoyer for donating their time to photograph CIRI’s Centennial Gala.

Pullman & Comley Pullman & Comley supports&CIRI’s Pullman Comley supports CIRI’s supports CIRI’s missiontoto assist mission assist mission to assist refugees and refugees and refugees and immigrants immigrants immigrants

pullcom.com pullcom.com pullcom.com

@pullmancomley

@pullmancomley

@pullmancomley

BlumShapiro salutes Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants for 100 years of making a difference in the lives of refugees, immigrants, asylees and survivors of human trafficking.

866.356.BLUM blumshapiro.com

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We make a difference by giving back Praxair proudly supports the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants At Praxair, nothing demonstrates our spirit of giving more than our thousands of dedicated and generous employees who contribute their time and money – combined with grants from Praxair’s Global Giving Program – to organizations and institutions that matter most to them and to our company. Giving back to our communities is a core value at Praxair.

Through Praxair’s Global Giving Program, we have helped provide educational opportunities, promote cultural diversity, improve access to health & wellness programs and preserve and protect the environment around the world. We provide scholarships to community colleges and technical schools for critical skills that are needed in local workforces. And, we make contributions to organizations and universities to support the expansion of STEM education.

www.praxair.com/globalgiving

© Copyright 2018, All Rights Reserved.

We are proud to support the

Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants 100th Centennial Gala Celebration

Let’s Talk.

peoples.com 800 772 1090

©2018 People’s United Bank, N.A. | Member FDIC

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Southport Congregational Church celebrates CIRI and applauds the work they have done for the past 100 years to bring justice and mercy to all people!

524 Pequot Avenue Southport, CT 06890 203-255-1594 www.southportucc.org

WeGather together

ROOMS with a VIEW

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THE CLEVELAND H. DODGE FOUNDATION CONGRATULATES THE CONNECTICUT INSTITUTE FOR REFUGEES & IMMIGRANTS PROVIDING 100 YEARS OF CRITICAL SERVICES TO NEWCOMERS SEEKING OPPORTUNITY AND REFUGE IN CONNECTICUT

Congratulations and happy 100th birthday, CIRI! Connecting People. Cultivating Place. Crafting Product.

2889 Fairfield Ave., Bridgeport, CT (203) 522-5662 sourcecoffeehouse.com

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Gault Family Companies is proud to support CIRI

Energy & Home Solutions Stone & Landscape Supplies gaultenergy.com gaultstone.com (203) 227-5181

Proudly Supports

Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants

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The Jeniam Foundation congratulates CIRI on its first 100 years. We’re proud to support their important work, especially during these difficult times.

Their commitment to building vibrant communities, reuniting families and helping survivors of tragedy is an inspiration.

“GARDENING TO ENJOY NATURE’S BOUNTY” Garden Center • Home Decor • Gourmet Market • Florist • Garden Consultation and Installation Services We are conveniently located in Vista, New York, just over the New Canaan, Connecticut border.

475 Smith Ridge Road South Salem, NY 10590 http://www.copiahomeandgarden.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

Open Year Round!

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LIGHTING & FABRIC DESIGN FOR SPECIAL EVENTS

SOCIALEVENTDECOR.COM

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CONGRATULATIONS CIRI for 100 years of providing vital services to empower refugees and immigrants to thrive in CT

from your friends at

THE UNQUOWA SCHOOL 981 Stratfield Road, Fairfield, CT 06825 www.unquowa.org

The Fairfield Museum was proud to partner with CIRI to present An American Story: Finding Home in Fairfield County, an exhibition honoring their extraordinary work.

We wish you another 100 years of success!

Fairfield Museum

Explore the past, Imagine the future

370 Beach Road, Fairfield, CT | 203-259-1598 Open Daily 10am - 4pm | Fairfieldhistory.org

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The CIRI Board of Directors proudly celebrates CIRI’s 100 years of new beginnings!

We extend our deepest thanks to the CIRI staff for their commitment, compassion and determination.

Everywhere immigrants have enriched and strengthened the fabric of American life. – -John F. Kennedy

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The Center for Faith and Public The for andPublic Public Life at Fairfield TheCenter Center for Faith FaithUniversity and Life University Lifeat atFairfield Fairfield CIRI University congratulates on its congratulates CIRI on its congratulates CIRI on its Centennial Anniversary.

Thank Centennial Anniversary.

Anniversary. Thank Centennial Thank you for your partnership! youfor foryour your partnership! partnership! you

fairfield.edu/CFPL fairfield.edu/CFPL fairfield.edu/CFPL Partnering with communities to Partnering with communities Partnering with communities toto address social challenges through address social challenges through address social challenges through service learning, participatory servicelearning, learning, participatory research, and humanitarian action. service participatory research,and and humanitarian humanitarian action. research, action.

Congratulations to CIRI on a Century of Service!

321 Strawberry Hill Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851 angelosfcs@yahoo.com Angelo Esposito - Owner

Thanks CIRI for 100 years of service!

Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants Mary Halloran and Jim Rulmyr

Congratulations on your 100th Anniversary!

T hank You

We extend our deepest gratitude to the Centennial Gala Committee, CIRI Board, CIRI Staff, Gala Sponsors and Patrons for making this event possible.

CENTENNIAL AND GALA CHAIRS AND COMMITTEE Centennial Honorary Co-Chairs: Congressman Jim Himes and Armando Gonclaves Centennial Co-Chairs: Barbara Green, Sue Ingall, and Peter Penczer Centennial Gala Co-Chairs: Rosinne Chlala and Caroline Pech Leslie Gala Committee: Erica Asaro • Heather Cameron • Gabrielle Chautin • Claudia Connor • Cynthia Davis • Nancy Diamond • Bayard Dodge • Gay Empson • Roy Fuchs • Barbara Green • Noel Haddock • Sue Ingall • Krista Johnson • Laura LaVelle • Ryan Odinak • James Rulmyr • Sherry Schreiber • Margaret Sarkela • Jessica Suarez • Debbie Steckler • Emalee Thitthavong • Laura Wilbur

CIRI BOARD OF DIRECTORS James R. Rulmyr, Chair • Caroline Pech Leslie, Vice Chair • Gary Holmes, Secretary • Robert Smith III, Treasurer • Rafael Aparicio • Youssef Boutros • Faith Fennelly • Kathleen Freis • Stephen Fuzesi • Barbara F. Green, Esq. • Gary Holmes • Cheryl Manley • Robert Maresca, Esq. • Jatin Mehta • Alex Meyerovich • Nina Nieuwoudt • Jane F. Norgren • George Paik • Peter Penczer, Esq. • Sherry Schreiber • Poonam Sharma • Debbie Steckler • Daniel Trust • • • Emeritus: John LaCava, Esq. • Richard Ryscavage, SJ • George Wolf, Esq. • • • Claudia Connor, President & CEO

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T hank You

CIRI STAFF

Elhassan Aitelqadi • Merari Antunez • Judith Baez • Sue Bechalany • Caitlin Burke • Deo Byakisaka • Christina Castellani • Theresa Collins • Claudia Connor • Leonela Cruz-Ahuatl • Oscar Cruz-Machado • Ashley Darnley • Stephanie Dieudonne • Kirill Elin • Agnes Farkas • Fresia Fernandez • Marisabel Fernandez • Carmen Goiricelaya • Noel Haddock • Reem Hadid • Jennifer Hancock • Jane Himmel • Adriana Jimenez • Krista Johnson • Alicia Kinsman • Cintia Maio-Matos • Anty Marche • Alice Moore • Claudia Morgan • Cecilia O. Malin • Tanny Ochoa • Sue Pathammavong • Donna Petrone • Heather Powell • Keighly Rector • Farah Salam • Susan Schnitzer • Caroline Sennett • Christina Shallow • Jessica Suarez • Emalee Thitthavong • Lizzeth

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Upcoming Events Please join us at our upcoming events!

Thursday, October 18, 6pm

Creative Cocktail Hour in collaboration with Real Art Ways, Hartford, CT Community gathering, pop-up exhibition of An American Story, music, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails

Monday, October 22, 7pm

CIRI Humanitarian Film Series at FTC, Fairfield Theatre Company, Fairfield, CT Launch of a new film series! Check our website for details.

Thursday, October 25, 5pm

Mohamad Hafez: Collateral Damage – Artist’s Lecture at 5pm, Opening Reception from 6-7:30pm Kelley Theater, Quick Center for the Arts, Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT

Tuesday, November 6, 7:30pm

Human Flow, screening of film by Ai Wei Wei Kelley Theater, Quick Center for the Arts, Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT

Tuesday, November 13, 3:30-7:00pm

Forum on the Worldwide Refugee Crisis - Panels on: Syrian Refugee Crisis and Impact of Politics on Humanitarian Action; The Global Refugee Crisis and the Definition of “Refugee” Kelley Theater, Quick Center for the Arts, Fairfield University, Fairfield, CT

Please visit our website for details www.cirict.org.

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On behalf of the CIRI Centennial Gala Committee, CIRI’s Staff and Board of Directors, we extend our deepest gratitude to all of you for making this event so special. If you are interested in learning more about CIRI or would like to get involved, please visit our website at www.cirict.org.

Follow Us on Social Media ciri.ct @CIRICT @ciri.ct

Congratulations

to the connecticut institute for refugees and immigrants on a century of new beginnings. your dedication has changed countless lives for the better.

The

IRFAN KATHWARI Foundation