USA for IOM Appoints New CEO to Lead Next Chapter of Humanitarian Innovation
Geneva/Washington, D.C., 17 June 2025 – USA for IOM, the U.S. nonprofit partner of the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM), today announced the appointment of Joanna Wasmuth as its new Chief Executive Officer. Wasmuth is a visionary leader with extensive expertise in international development and economic empowerment, and a strong track record of building high-impact partnerships to support displaced communities worldwide.
At a time when record levels of displacement are straining global resources, Wasmuth will lead USA for IOM into a new chapter of cross-sector collaboration. Under her leadership, the organization will enhance partnerships that support IOM programming to save lives and advance durable solutions to displacement.
“Joanna brings a blend of courage and creativity to her leadership, and her strategic vision and relentless drive for innovation have set new standards,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope. “We look forward to seeing USA for IOM flourish under her stewardship, as we build groundbreaking partnerships and unlock new opportunities that broaden support for our work around the world.”
From supporting survivors of trafficking to helping conflict-affected families rebuild their homes, USA for IOM connects private donors, corporations, and foundations with life-changing projects led by IOM’s global teams. These collaborations are transformative investments, blending private sector innovation with humanitarian expertise to expand possibilities for vulnerable people around the world.
“I am honored to lead USA for IOM at this critical time and to work alongside our board, partners, donors, innovators, and communities to build solutions that empower people on the move,” Wasmuth said. “We look forward to growing our partnerships with the private sector to create scalable, sustainable solutions that shape brighter futures for displaced families worldwide.”
Wasmuth has more than 25 years of experience in international development and nonprofit leadership at organizations such as World Vision and Vision Fund International. She has championed partnerships and funding innovations that have strengthened vulnerable populations and developed critical solutions to combat human trafficking.
“On behalf of the Board, we are thrilled to welcome Joanna,” said Anne Richard, USA for IOM Board member, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State, and NGO leader. “She has experience building support for worthwhile causes, and we are happy she will be putting her considerable talents and enthusiastic energy to use in support of USA for IOM.”
For more than 30 years, USA for IOM has mobilized funding for a wide range of IOM’s more than 170 country missions – helping conflict-affected communities in Ukraine, protecting extremely vulnerable migrants in Africa and South America, and assisting victims of human trafficking around the world.
About USA for IOM
USA for IOM is the nonprofit partner in the U.S. of the International Organization for Migration (IOM). USA for IOM raises awareness and mobilizes support for humanitarian assistance and development initiatives to improve the lives of displaced people around the world. Join us in creating lasting solutions that empower displaced communities and generate sustainable impact.
To request a meeting with Joanna Wasmuth to discuss partnerships, please email: collaborate@usaforiom.org.
- admin
A letter from our CEO Maria Moreno - A Grateful Goodbye: Celebrating Our Achievements Together
Dear reader,
As I conclude my tenure at USA for IOM, I want to express my profound gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to and lead our organization during a period of significant transformation over the past 12 years. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together.
Facilitated by your generosity, this organization that we have developed together has grown beyond what we could imagine, expanding our reach to assist and impact vulnerable people and migrants around the globe.
We have mobilized action to support numerous impactful projects driven by IOM, from responding to humanitarian crises in various countries to fostering entrepreneurship among migrants and local communities, and supporting victims of human trafficking. Our programs have not only facilitated recovery but have also built resilience across communities.
Our commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by our dedication to transparency, accountability, and effective governance. The organization has earned recognition for its compliance and transparency, enhancing trust and support from our donors, funders, and partners. This has been crucial in ensuring the sustainability and ongoing positive impact of our work, positioning us as a leader in the nonprofit sector.
As I step down from my role today, I am confident that USA for IOM will continue to achieve new heights. Our dedicated Board of Directors and Staff are committed to advancing our mission, highlighting critical migration issues, and mobilizing support that yields tangible improvements in the lives of migrants.
I am grateful for the exceptional partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM-UN Migration). Looking forward to, USA for IOM will continue to support IOM and Director General Amy Pope’s vision to position migration as a catalyst for human development and global prosperity.
I will continue to be an advocate for people on the move, as we together create opportunities for migrants, refugees, and those in crisis, to build on the promise of migration. The importance of addressing migration issues has never been more critical.
Thank you for your support and collaboration throughout my journey with USA for IOM.
Best regards,
Maria Moreno
Best regards,
Maria Moreno
