Maggie Mitchell Salem

Maggie Mitchell Salem is the Executive Director at IRIS: Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services, where she has been actively involved for approximately nine months as of October 2024. She brings nearly 30 years of international experience in government, non-profits, and international NGOs, focusing on civic education, governance, and human rights initiatives.

Professional Background::

• Previous Roles: Before joining IRIS, Salem served as the regional director for the Middle East and North Africa at the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), where she managed election-related programs. She also founded Qatar Foundation International (QFI), developing civic education materials and online debate programs. Her earlier career includes roles as a U.S. Foreign Service Officer and Special Assistant in the Executive Secretariat under Secretary of State Madeleine Albright.
• Education: She holds a Bachelor’s degree from The Johns Hopkins University with a double major in Psychology and Political Science. Additionally, she completed coursework for a Master's degree in Contemporary Arab Studies at Georgetown University. Notably, she received a Fulbright Scholarship to Syria from 1990 to 1992.

Core Competencies:: Salem is recognized for her strategic leadership, team-building skills, and her ability to convene diverse groups across various sectors. She is passionate about creating connections that address complex challenges and foster creativity within organizations. Her work emphasizes inclusivity and collaboration among stakeholders to achieve impactful outcomes.

Languages and Honors:: She is proficient in Arabic and has received multiple Superior Honor Awards from the Department of State for her contributions to international relations and public policy.

Maggie Mitchell Salem's extensive background and commitment to civic engagement make her a significant figure in the field of refugee and immigrant services.