New Staff Profile: Briana Baker

Briana may be new to our staff, but she’s not a new face in the Refugee Services Mankato office. Briana has been volunteering in the office for a year, assisting where needed, and we’re excited to have her join our team as a part-time staff person. Briana provides administrative support to the staff of the Mankato office, greeting individuals in the lobby area, making sure that supplies are well-stocked, answering phones, and helping the office to run smoothly. Briana’s interest in involvement with Refugee Services Mankato began when she had some flexibility with her work schedule and wanted to make an explicit statement of her support for refugees. She noted that the current political climate was communicating a lack of welcome through policies and statements, both in blatant and more subtle ways. Volunteering with Refugee Services Mankato gave her a very tangible way to express her support for refugees. She is also involved with the work of Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light. As the first person to greet clients in our office, Briana enjoys the daily encounters she has with newcomers to the community and they make her job fun and rewarding. Although most visitors to the office are there to meet with another program staff member, she enjoys creating an atmosphere of welcome and helping individuals connect with the support they need. When she’s not working, Briana loves to explore greater Minnesota and the Mankato area. She loves its diverse landscape with the river, bluffs, and waterways. You’re likely to find her outside, hiking and exploring. Welcome to the team, Briana!