FORA Elects New Leadership and Welcomes an Expanded National Board

The Federation of Romanian-American Organizations (FORA) has announced its newly elected leadership team and board following this year’s national vote, marking a new chapter for the growing network of Romanian-American institutions across the United States.

Raluca Bucur, a longtime advocate for organizational collaboration and community development through her work with Alianta and CeFain in Washington, DC, has been elected President of FORA. Her background in strategic planning, coalition-building, and nonprofit governance positions her to guide the federation through a new phase of national coordination and growth.

Serving alongside her is Oana Dobrean-Urzica of ROCO Chicago, elected Vice President. Dobrean-Urzica brings significant experience in community mobilization and organizational leadership, particularly within the Midwest’s vibrant Romanian-American ecosystem.

FORA’s secretariat will now be jointly led by Andrei Hahn of HORA Minnesota, elected Co-Secretary, working in partnership with incumbent Secretary Cezar Ungureanu of Romanul Connecticut to strengthen internal communication and operational continuity across the federation’s expanding network.

Simona Vasile of RomAmPro Connecticut will serve as Treasurer, assuming responsibility for financial stewardship, compliance, and fiscal planning as FORA continues to grow its national footprint.

The organization also recognizes and thanks outgoing President Mihaela Ungureanu for her contributions in expanding FORA’s reach, improving coordination among member organizations, and championing national initiatives that elevate Romanian-American visibility.

Beyond the leadership team, FORA’s newly elected board includes a diverse roster of representatives from Romanian-American organizations nationwide. Members of the Board of Directors include:

• Iulian Calinov (Alianta & ARCS, WA)

• Cornel Costea (Romanian Community Center, PA)

• Mihai Lehene (RUF, Chicago, IL)

• Nelu Lazar (Nelu Lazar Folk, IN)

• Mirela Panaitisor (Romanul, CT)

Together, this group reflects the federation’s commitment to nationwide inclusion and coordinated action, drawing on regional strengths to advance shared cultural, educational, and civic goals.

FORA continues to expand its role as a unifying platform for Romanian-American organizations, supporting collaboration at the local, regional, and national levels.

For inquiries or additional information:fora.federation@gmail.com