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SIETAR USA Leadership

The future of SIETAR USA depends on its members to support its mission and to provide the leadership to guide the organization. Are you ready to step up?

Individuals interested in serving on the SIETAR Board of Directors must meet the following criteria:

1. Possess a strong background and understanding in the fields of intercultural and/or diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB).

2. Be a member in good standing with SIETAR USA (or willing to become a member).

3. Have attended at least one SIETAR USA national conference in the past five (5) years. 

We invite you to read in more detail about the various Leadership Roles on the SIETAR USA Board and to contact us with any questions at boardleadership@sietarusa.org.

Board of Directors

As a governing body, the SIETAR USA Board of Directors is focused on the mission of the organization. They are responsible for steering the organization toward a sustainable future through development and ongoing application of sound ethical, legal and financial policies. The Board is not responsible for managing day-to-day operations, but to provide oversight, foresight and insight in leadership. SIETAR USA Board members serve as volunteers to the organization and do not receive compensation.

Board Position Descriptions

Meet the SIETAR USA Board - 2026-2027

Sue Shinomiya
President 
(2025-2027)

BIO

Ms. Sue Shinomiya, MBA, of Global Business Passport in Portland, Oregon, inspires cultural curiosity and inclusive leadership as a consultant, trainer, coach and writer. She empowers professionals and learners to connect, lead and thrive across cultures and differences. Sue has spent over 10 years in Japan. She currently resides in Portland and holds a position of Adjunct Faculty member at Portland State University. She proudly serves as President of the Board of SIETAR USA and enjoys cultural exploration, photography, dance, and the great outdoors.

C. Melissa Horne Neu, DSL  
President Elect
(2025-2027)

BIO

C. Melissa Neu, DSL, is a global leadership strategist, intercultural communication consultant, and educator with more than 20 years of experience as a growth and development strategist. As the founder of The Cultural Expedition Co., she partners with organizations to embed global and adaptive leadership competencies, strengthen communication, and cultivate cultural agility in increasingly complex environments. Dr. Neu is known for designing experiential and inclusive learning experiences that blend research-grounded strategy with storytelling, reflective practice, and interactive facilitation. She is the creator of the Purpose-Built Leadership Program and holds multiple certifications in leadership development, intercultural assessment, and coaching. Dr. Neu serves as President-Elect of the SIETAR USA Board of Directors and is committed to advancing equity, global understanding, and strategic leadership in practice.


Stephanie Holdren
Secretary 
(2025-2027)

Monica G. Mumford
Treasurer 
(2025-2027)


Allison Iurato
Communications Director
(2024-2026)



Aqueelah Roberson
Local Groups Director
(2026-2028)

Jon DeVries

Leadership Development Director

(2024-2026)



Noor Azizan Gardner
Sponsor Partnership Development Director 

(2024-2026)


Liesbeth Huysmans

Professional Development Director (2025-2027)

SIETAR USA Advisory Council

The SIETAR USA Advisory Council is made up of distinguished members of the Society and other intercultural/DEIB professionals with specific expertise in technology, business administration, legal matters, and/or marketing. Council members are appointed by the Board of Directors for a three (3) year term, which can be renewed. 


Rob Pusch

Syracuse University


Patricia Malidor-Coleman

A-Z World Connections

Sharon Schweitzer

Cross-Cultural Consultant, Author Access to Culture


Cheryl Woehr



Leadership Development

Are you looking to apply your professional experience, share your talents, and develop your leadership skills? Are you searching for an opportunity to give back to the SIETAR USA community and make a difference in the intercultural and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) fields?

Joining the Board of Directors is the perfect professional learning and development experience for you! 

We invite you to read more details about the leadership roles that will be open in the coming year by clicking here. Feel free to contact us with any questions at info@sietarusa.org.


General Duties of Members of the Board of Directors

  • Board members serve a three-year term (unless noted otherwise) and carry responsibilities for the portfolio to which they are appointed. 
  • Board members must sign and abide by the Board Code of Ethics and Conflict of Interest documents. As all members of the society, they are encouraged to support and sign the Living Code of Ethics. 
  • Board members are expected to attend the SIETAR USA Annual Conference, the Annual Board Meeting (a one-day in-person meeting before or after the conference), and the Board of Directors Annual Retreat (a three-day business meeting held each year in February or March). 
  • Board members are expected to participate in monthly Board of Directors teleconference meetings. 

For questions or more information, contact boardleadership@sietarusa.org


Benefits of Serving on the Board of Directors

Service on the SIETAR USA Board of Directors is volunteer-based. This service is a unique and wonderful professional learning and development experience.

Serving on the Board of Directors will provide you with opportunities to:

  • Give back to the SIETAR USA community and make a difference in the intercultural and DEI fields.
  • Share your talents and build your leadership skills
  • Lead and support initiatives that resonate with you and will benefit the SIETAR USA community
  • Learn new skills and develop abilities in a safe environment
  • Expand your network in the intercultural and DEI fields
  • Collaborate with a team of passionate, talented, and experienced professionals committed to supporting the mission of SIETAR USA


© 2025 All Rights Reserved. SIETAR USA is a 501(c)(3) organization. Tax ID 01-0532058

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