Business Beat: Dorcas International Institute confirms Milagro Sique as CEO

Interim executive director confirmed by the board to lead state’s largest provider of immigration services

Following an extensive national search, Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island (DIIRI), the state’s largest organization providing integrated services to immigrants and individuals seeking refuge, is pleased to announce that it has appointed longtime senior leader Milagro Sique as its new chief executive officer.

Sique assumed the role in an interim capacity after the organization’s executive director stepped down, and provided steady, strategic leadership during a period of organizational transition, unprecedented immigration policy shifts, and growing demands on the Institute’s mission to provide critical services.

“Milagro brought exactly the leadership we needed at a pivotal moment,” said April Chase-Lubitz, President, Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island Board of Directors. “Her experience, vision, and character, and the trust she has earned across our staff and community, made it clear that she is the right person to lead the organization forward. In this role she will continue to serve individuals and families whose liberties, in this current climate, are under threat every day.”

Sique brings more than two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership and human resources to her role, with more than 11 years at DIIRI leading a team of educators, case workers, and legal professionals, who believe in social justice, equality, and empowerment, and who work tirelessly to ensure that DIIRI’s vital programs and services are available, accessible, and beneficial to all. 

“I appreciate the Board of Directors’ confidence in me. My operational expertise coupled with first-hand knowledge and a deep understanding of what our clients need most, offers a perspective grounded in both strategy and experience. I am honored to continue our organization’s mission to support our community and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” said Sique.

Sique is committed to advocating for and strengthening underserved populations consistent with Dorcas International’s mission: to cultivate an inclusive community for immigrants and those seeking refuge by providing integrated services, fostering cross-cultural understanding, and nurturing strong partnerships. She has successfully mentored members of diverse populations, helping them to navigate systems and build connections to achieve the goal of self-sufficiency.

About Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island:

Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island strives to create a welcoming environment for all,  advancing pathways to self-sufficiency for more than 100 years. Clients are met where they are with innovative wraparound services helping those seeking to overcome educational, cultural, economic, legal, and language barriers. A non-profit 501(c)(3), Dorcas International offers adult education, language learning, job training, citizenship and immigration legal services, refugee resettlement, translation and interpreting, clothing and household needs, and more. The organization has taken different shapes during the last 100+ years of service, but its commitment and dedication to the individuals, families and community it serves remains steadfast.  For more information, visit www.diiri.org.