OUR TEAM
Peter is our executive director and received his BA and MA in English from Ripon College and the University of Northern Colorado. After serving in the US Peace Corps in Mongolia, he earned a PhD in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University. With a passion for international programming and issues born from living in diverse communities abroad, Peter has dedicated most of his professional career to advancing awareness, education, and understanding of global topics and cultures as an educator and advocate.
PETER GERLACH, PHD
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
JAMES DYKEMAN
DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS
James is passionate about supporting nonprofit organizations, emphasizing strategic communications, community outreach, and partnership development. His previous work with nonprofits focused on serving homeless and at-risk populations, raising awareness of international issues, and immigrant and refugee advocacy. James is also the Executive Director for the Center for Understanding in Conflict and graduated with highest distinction from the University of Iowa with a BA in Journalism and Mass Communications and a certificate in Nonprofit Leadership and Philanthropy. Having traveled to 32 countries worldwide (and counting!), James is dedicated to uplifting international voices and helping foster an inclusive outlook, advocating that we are all part of an interconnected, global community.
2025-26 INTERNS
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SOFY SABOGAL
Sofia is a student at the University of Iowa, studying Ethics and Public Policy as well as English and Creative Writing. As a Colombian American, Sofia is excited to involve herself in a diverse community within the ICFRC. She lives in Mexico City, and has experience in developing projects focused on activism through art. Her love for theatre and passion for community building have guided her efforts when collaborating with others and planning events. She looks forward to working with the Iowa City Foreign Relations Council to encourage interconnectedness and global perspectives.
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Joe Kingsbury is a Senior at the University of Iowa pursuing a degree in International Studies and a minor in Italian. He has a strong passion for learning about new cultures, languages, and the world and enjoys volunteering within the community and looks forward to creating a space welcome for all. Joe is very excited to work with ICFRC, and is eager to help inform, discuss, and learn alongside our diverse and open-minded community.
JOE KINGSBURY
