Announcement
The following message was originally sent out to supporters on March 8, 2022 from Natalie El-Deiry, executive director at the International Rescue Committee in Salt Lake City.
Hello Friends,
Today, I’m writing to let you know that I will be leaving my position as executive director at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Salt Lake City later this month to join the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity as the Immigration Advisor charged with creating a roadmap for economic mobility and social integration for Utah’s immigrant communities. Though I’m excited for my new role, it will be challenging to step away from the critical work being done in support of the families the IRC serves.
I would like to thank you for your continued support of the IRC in Salt Lake City. In our community, you stand for welcome, inclusion, and a new beginning for those fleeing violence and persecution. For refugee and new American families working hard to rebuild their lives, your efforts ensure a safe place to call home and learn what it means to be a Utahn. Thank you!
Natalie El-Deiry, executive director at the IRC in Salt Lake City, shares a final message to the community before departing to work for the Governor's Office for Economic Opportunity.
Photo: Marc Gardner
In my close to 13 years at the IRC, I have witnessed—firsthand—the collective humanity this community values. During my time as executive director, we have faced some of the most difficult years with numerous humanitarian crises, including the global pandemic and the policies that barred some of the world’s most vulnerable populations from resettling to safety in the United States. Each time, our community of supporters across Utah took immediate action in support of our newly arrived neighbors. The IRC’s work would not be possible without your dedicated and compassionate efforts.
Without question, I am also deeply grateful for our expert staff who continue to show up each and every day, driven by the mission of the IRC. At the core of our work, our staff strive to develop and implement strategic programming that is robust, responsive and strives to meet the expressed needs of refugee and new American families. From our senior leadership team to our newest staff member, I know they will work diligently to maintain progress as the process for identifying a new executive director moves forward.
Once a new executive director joins the team, we will be sure to reach out with an update. If you have any questions in the meantime, please do not hesitate to reach out to Jesse Sheets, development officer, at [email protected].
Our work together in support of refugees, immigrants and other new Americans in Utah remains vitally important. Though I’m departing the IRC, I’m heartened to know your support of this work—alongside many others like you—will not falter. Thank you for being right here with us: today, tomorrow & always.
Sincerely,
Natalie El-Deiry
Executive Director
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Learn more about Natalie's next steps working for the State of Utah here »