A Message from Brad Engdahl ASI Board Chair I became Chair of the ASI Board two years ago during the twin crises of a surging virus and civil protests against the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police. The Board, Staff and our members responded and continue to respond responsibly and meaningfully to these crises, consistent with the Mission, Vision and aV lues of ASI. With the easing of the pandemic, the ASI community has experienced and embraced Return, Resilience, Restoration and Regeneration over the past 12 months. Regeneration. ASI’s treasure, Bruce aK rstadt, has announced his intention to step down as President and CEO of ASI after more than 30 years of visionary leadership. His infiuence is refiected in ev ery page of this Report to the Community. Bruce has guided ASI to become an internationally respected institution that is nancially healthy and known for its creative and engaging programs and exhibits. A search committee has been designated by the Board and, happily for us, Bruce will remain in his position until a successor who may someday approach his contributions is selected.
Return. With the return of visitors streaming through its front doors, ASI is again a gathering place for all people to explore diverse experiences of migration, identity, belonging and the environment through arts and culture, informed by enduring links to Sweden. Resilience. The Staff at ASI has shown a creativity, dedication, energy and passion over the past two years that resonate in every visitor entering ASI and in every limestone block of Turnblad Mansion. A glance at the Report to the Community reveals the breadth and brilliance of their efforts and the magical spirit they create is sensed as soon as you walk into these premises. Restoration. Through the generosity of ASI’s commu nity, the first phase of the restoration of the Turnblad Mansion and Carriage House commenced in April. This project will sustain and broaden ASI’s program ming and ability to tell the stories of migration from Sweden and elsewhere that bring to life the idea of migration and the migration of ideas.
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As the light of Midsommar nears, the future of ASI is bright. The environment and activities described in this Report to the Community are a testament to the strength and commitment of everyone who works, volunteers and otherwise provides support for ASI. I celebrate and thank each of you.
Report to the Community FY2021
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