On Thursday, March 6, 2025, community members, business leaders, and advocates came together at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cedar Rapids for the Catherine McAuley Center’s third annual Immigration & Business Luncheon! This inspiring event showcases the immense impact of refugees and immigrants on our community, workforce, and economy—celebrating their resilience, entrepreneurship, and the vibrant cultural diversity that strengthens our region.
Opening Proclamation
Councilmember Ashley Vanorny delivered a proclamation on behalf of the City of Cedar Rapids, recognizing the invaluable contributions of refugees and immigrants to Iowa’s business community and workforce. She emphasized the city’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive and connected community, encouraging residents to welcome and support their neighbors. Reflecting on CMC’s impact, she shared, “The Catherine McAuley Center continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring we can deliver on the promise of ‘Welcome’ here in Cedar Rapids.”
Emcee: Nick AbouAssaly, Mayor of Marion
Returning for the third year as emcee, Marion Mayor Nick AbouAssaly led the event with his signature leadership and energy. An immigrant from Beirut, Lebanon, he has dedicated his career to public service and community development. As the mayor of one of Iowa’s fastest-growing cities and a seasoned attorney, AbouAssaly continues to champion progress, inclusion, and economic growth across Eastern Iowa.
Keynote Speaker: Rekha Basu, Reporter, Columnist, & Author
Special guest and keynote speaker Rekha Basu delivered the highly anticipated address, sharing insights from her decades-long journalism career covering race, gender, immigration, and social justice. She spoke about her dedication to reporting on issues affecting immigrants and refugees—stories that were often overlooked or difficult to tell. Basu emphasized the power of storytelling in shaping public perception and policy, and the importance of giving voice to those who are too often unheard.
2025 Immigration & Business Awards
Congratulations to the recipients of the Catherine McAuley Center’s 2025 Immigration & Business Awards! These remarkable individuals—Rex Mwamba, Saadat Ahmadi, Vikas Kalia (who was unable to attend), Mugisha Gloire, and Alouise Francois—have made a lasting impact on our community through their talent, leadership, and dedication. As they shared their stories, their words reflected the very reasons they were nominated and selected for this honor. It was a privilege to celebrate them!
2025 Immigration & Business Awardees
Innovation in Business:
Rex Mwamba
President & Founder, World Development
Emerging Employee:
Saadat Ahmadi
DOJ Immigration Legal
Representative, Catholic Charities
Outstanding Business Leader:
Vikas Kalia
Entrepreneur & Business Owner
Emerging Community Leader:
Mugisha Gloire
Founder & CEO, United We March Forward
Youth Leader:
Alouise Francois
Student, Jefferson High School
Thank You to Our Sponsors
We are incredibly grateful to our sponsors for their generous support of the Immigration & Business Luncheon. Their contributions help create a space to recognize and celebrate the vital role of refugees and immigrants in our community. Thank you for partnering with us to make this event a success!
Presenting
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Keynote Address
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In-Kind Sponsors
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Sister Shari Sutherland
