Here’s a new installment in our series spotlighting the dedicated affiliate staff who tirelessly work behind the scenes to support our mission to welcome. Staff are nominated by colleagues who wish to recognize their hard work and dedication.
This month, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Marina Peshterianu, who is marking a remarkable 25 years with Bridge Refugee Services, a resettlement agency with offices in both Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tennessee. Learn more about Bridge Refugee Services and their vital work in east Tennessee here.
From day one, Marina has been a cornerstone of the Bridge team, consistently demonstrating dedication, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Over the years, she has played an integral part in resettling thousands of refugees in eastern Tennessee.
Marina began her work at Bridge in 1999, after transitioning from a career in education. First serving as an interpreter, she went on to fill various roles including: case manager (for eight years), employment developer, and Associate Director since 2014. In addition, Marina has served as Interim Director for the two offices on several different occasions, including presently. Marina has been a champion for Tennessee’s refugee community, continuing to welcome and support refugees in the wake of multiple political shifts and international crises. Marina advocated for the essential work of refugee resettlement agencies during the Covid-19 pandemic, keeping Bridge Refugee Services’ doors open.
Here are some observations about Marina’s impact that her colleagues shared:
Marina brings such a wealth of information. I feel blessed to work in such a collaborative environment and learn from such a passionate supervisor.
Marina’s leadership is inspirational. She leads by example and sets a high standard for our team to be successful. Her vision and support have enabled Bridge to thrive for the last 25 years and I’m grateful for her guidance over the years.
Marina’s dedication to refugee resettlement goes beyond whatever role she holds at Bridge Refugee Services. After 25 years, I think it is safe to say she has given her life to this work. In any conversation with her (for five minutes, or maybe an hour or so), it is evident that her passion goes beyond the work itself, and extends to the well-being of her staff, the flourishing of the agency itself, and the individual success of each client that comes through the doors at Bridge. All of that to say, it is a privilege to be under her leadership and have the opportunity to learn from her.
Marina affirms that every refugee she has worked with has contributed to her life and personal journey. She says the greatest lesson she has learned from her relationships with refugees is the importance of self-determination, resilience, and hard work. 
Please join us in congratulating Marina on this incredible milestone. Her hard work and dedication are truly appreciated, and we’re excited to celebrate many more years of success together!
Thank you, Marina, for all that you have given and continue to contribute to your community, your clients and colleagues, and to the entire EMM network.
Here’s to 25 years of outstanding contributions and many more to come!
