International Institute of St. Louis names permanent CEO

Reported by St. Louis Business Journal

The International Institute of St. Louis has concluded its search for new leadership, selecting an internal candidate who brings over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Read more...

Story Highlights

• Blake Hamilton named permanent CEO of International Institute of St. Louis.

• Institute faces funding challenges, furloughing 60% of staff in February.

• Organization made 340 refugee job placements with 170 area businesses.

The International Institute of St. Louis, a nonprofit that provides services to help immigrants integrate into the community, has named Blake Hamilton, who has served as its interim CEO for seven months, to take the post permanently.

The organization said Monday that Hamilton's appointment comes "following a comprehensive and highly competitive international search."

Hamilton, who has more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, had been International Institute's senior vice president for talent development and advocacy before becoming interim CEO in December, when Arrey Obenson ceased being the nonprofit's CEO after having taken the role in 2021. Officials haven't publicly disclosed a reason for Obenson's departure.

The nonprofit said Monday in a release that during his tenure, Blake has offered "steady, strategic leadership during a time of organizational transition and increasing pressures on our mission."

“Blake has demonstrated exceptional leadership, deep commitment to our mission, and an unwavering dedication to the refugee and immigrant communities we serve,” Jennifer Schwesig, chair of the International Institute's board of directors, said in a statement. “Under Blake’s leadership, we are confident that we will continue to expand our impact, strengthen partnerships, and advance our mission of welcoming and supporting refugees and immigrants as they rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.” Keep reading.