Carolina Maranon-Cobos (she/her) is the program manager for the Institute of Advanced Study.  Originally from Mexico and a new U.S. citizen, Carolina is passionate about the power of cultural exchange as well as using the arts and education as a tool to develop understanding between communities. Before coming to the IAS, she was the Cultural Attaché at the Consulate of Mexico in Saint Paul, and Public Events Manager at Global Minnesota. Carolina has also served on several advisory committees for different arts organizations in the Twin Cities, including the Ordway and Mixed Blood Theater. She joined the VocalEssence Board of Directors in 2018 after several years of serving on the Advisory Council for Cantaré! and has recently started her new role as Board Chair for the organization. Carolina thrives through collaborative work and genuine community connections. She also loves cooking for her friends, dancing lindy hop, and painting and drawing in her free time.