Business Leader | Cultural Connector | Social InnovatOR

Born in India and raised in a vibrant immigrant community, Priya Morioka’s career and calling have always been deeply rooted in understanding — and bridging — the gaps that exist between people, cultures, and systems. From a young age, she witnessed how language and cultural barriers could shape outcomes, limit opportunity, and stifle potential. That awareness became a lifelong drive: to build organizations that help people connect, communicate, and thrive.

Priya’s professional journey spans iconic companies including General Mills, Whirlpool, Caribou Coffee, and Schwan’s Foods, where she rose through the ranks in general management and marketing roles. Her career has taken her across the U.S., Canada, and Asia, strengthening her global perspective and leadership style.

Today, as the Chief Operating Officer and Co-Founder of Global Language Connections, Priya channels her corporate experience into a mission-driven enterprise that accelerates community and immigrant success through culturally fluent communication services. She connects workforce shortages with immigrant talent, creating scalable solutions that strengthen entire communities.

Priya holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Management and an MBA from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business, where she was a William Davidson Fellow and served on the Admissions Committee. Her commitment to equity and education extends into her civic work, where she has served on numerous boards, including:

• Northside Achievement Zone (NAZ) – Friends of the Future Committee
  
• Harvest Network of Schools – Best Academy
  
• Governor Tim Walz Workforce Board
  
• AEON
  
• Agape Oasis Child Development
  

Driven by a belief that everyone deserves to be understood and included, Priya continues to build systems that foster connection — across languages, borders, and backgrounds.