Laurie Reemsnyder, an Art Education graduate from the Rhode Island School of Design, has been a significant photography instructor since 1999 in Vallejo and Marin Catholic. Her journey began with seven years of coordinating programs for the International House of Rhode Island, aiding refugees, immigrants, and international students in adapting to life in the US. For two decades, Laurie supervised and documented the movement of over half a million refugees through SFO with the International Organization for Migration, drawing from her global experiences living in Japan and Denmark and extensive travel throughout Asia, Central America, and Europe.
Laurie’s true passion lies in empowering young people to use their voices for service and art. Additionally, she serves as an enthusiastic line dance instructor, primarily for active adults. Motivated by her work with refugees, Laurie aims to raise awareness and cultivate compassion for those less fortunate. Her current project focuses on the stories of Southeast Asian refugees passing through Hamilton in Novato for three years, exploring the reasons behind their journeys. Valda, a Cambodian refugee, plays a central role, sharing her remarkable story of escape and building a life in Hamilton, working at the airport for 30 years before retiring during the pandemic. Laurie’s project illuminates themes of resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
The Monthly Novato Speaker Series, held at the Bill and Adele Jonas Center in Novato, is an ongoing program that brings together a diverse range of speakers from various fields and backgrounds to share their knowledge, experiences, and perspectives with the community. To view the Novato Speaker Series schedule and purchase tickets, visit their website.