∞ 65th Anniversary of the Finnish-American Fulbright Agreement ∞ 10 years of Friends of Fulbright Finland
vol. 27 nro 2 (66) syksy/fall 2017
∞ Exchange Between Nations
fulbright finland news
Celebrating Finland's Centennial
KOLUMNIT — COLUMNS
In 2017 Finland has celebrated the Centennial of its independence under the theme ‘Together’. There can hardly be a better word to also describe Fulbright Finland. This year our grantees, alumni, partners and donors have come together on both sides of the Atlantic to celebrate cooperation and joint achievements. In the United States, our alumni have toured the country as Centennial Ambassadors to talk in schools and communities about Finland and about opportunities for Americans in Finnish-American exchanges (p. 8). A part of the official Suomi Finland 100 Program, the Centennial Ambassadors is the initiative of our American Friends of Fulbright Finland (FoFF) alumni network that is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year (p. 10–11). On this side of the Atlantic, we have been pleased to renew valued partnerships and establish entirely new cooperation to create new Fulbright scholarships (p. 6–7). A historic recognition of the Finnish-American Fulbright program and its Fulbright Finland Centennial Fund campaign was the Centennial gift from the United States to Finland, USD 500,000 from the U.S. Congress to the Fulbright Finland Foundation. The gift was announced at a joint White House press conference by the Presidents of Finland and the United States. (p. 4–5) In 2017 we have also celebrated the 65th Anniversary of the Fulbright Agreement between Finland and the United States. At this juncture, it is important to pause and reflect on the history and original purpose of the program, both between Finland and the U.S. as well as globally — Fulbright was envisioned as a peace program (p. 9). We are so honored to have former President of Finland and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Martti Ahtisaari as our invited columnist. President Ahtisaari reminds us of the origins of Fulbright, the importance of education as foundational to fostering a sense of global understanding, and the critical role of exchange between nations (p. 2). As 2017 draws to a close, we convey our sincere thanks to all who have worked and celebrated side by side with us during this very special year and we look forward to continuing together to begin the next Centennial.
Terhi Mölsä Chief Executive Officer Fulbright Finland Foundation
Thomas Whitehouse
FROM THE EDITOR
EXCHANGE BETWEEN NATIONS From 1959 to 1974 J. William Fulbright served as Chairman of the United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee. As a public servant in a turbulent age, Senator Fulbright committed himself to the belief that wars between nations are preventable. He stressed the importance of education as foundational to fostering a sense of global understanding. In doing so, The Fulbright Program was established in 1946. It is now the largest international educational exchange program with “...the simple purpose [being] …to erode the culturally rooted mistrust that sets nations against one another.” As a citizen and former President of the Republic of Finland, I take pride in the fact that following World War II, Finland was the only country to pay back its debt to the United States. The U.S. Government recognized this commitment by establishing an educational foundation to link the two countries together. Fulbright Finland remains a caretaker of this historic act. To this end, 2017 is a special year. It marks not only Finland’s centenary as an independent republic but also the 65th anniversary of the Fulbright Agreement between Finland and the United States. To honor Finland’s centenary, the United States Congress presented a gift in the form of 500,000 USD to the Fulbright Finland Foundation in Helsinki. Such generosity not only reflects the spirit of the American people, but recognizes the historic role the Fulbright Program has played in advancing cross-cultural understanding. Nearly 20 years ago, I received the J. William Fulbright Prize for International Understanding, as a recognition of “ongoing involvement in preventing crises, resolving conflicts, and promoting peace to improve life for people in some of the world’s most troubled regions”. At the same time, I founded the Crisis Management Initiative (CMI) with the aim to prevent and resolve violent political conflicts. 17 years on, CMI continues to advance peacemaking around the world through mediation and dialogue. From brokering the independence of Namibia, to facilitating the Aceh Peace Agreement, the mandates that I have been given have ultimately required backing from the United States. In fact, such support has been a prerequisite for my pursuing these assignments to their rightful completion. The position of the United States remains pivotal in harnessing multilateral consensus on the world’s most pressing issues. Mediation and dialogue are recognized as the most effective forms of preventing and resolving violent conflicts. It is critical that platforms for exchange between nations are sustained and treasured.
Martti Ahtisaari President of Finland 1994–2000 2008 Nobel Peace Prize 2000 Fulbright Prize for International Understanding
IN THIS ISSUE
2 — Kolumnit / Columns 4 — Centennial Gift from the U.S. to Finland $500,000 from the U.S. Congress to the Fulbright Finland Foundation 6 — New Fulbright-TUAS Scholar Award VTT and Fulbright Finland Renewed Cooperation Agreement 7 — Fulbright Finland and University of Eastern Finland 30 Years of Collaboration
Fulbright Bicentennial Chair Agreement Renewed with University of Helsinki
8 — Centennial Ambassadors in Action! 9 — Remembering the Past, Imagining the Future 10 — Friends of Fulbright Finland 10 Years
Maija Kettunen
12 — Alumni Celebrating the Centennial at the Ambassador’s Residence in Washington D.C. 13 — Investing in Optimism 15 — Join the Alumni Association
AVANTO, Exercise in Self-discovery
16 — Alumni News 17 — Donors Make a Difference
COVER: The U.S. gift to Finland on Finland’s Centennial was announced at a U.S. Embassy reception in August 2017. President of the Republic of Finland Sauli Niinistö attended the reception and gave special remarks. Read more on the Centennial gift and the special reception on p. 4–5.
18 — Finland’s Appeal Evolving High Quality Research in Environmental and Health Sciences Attracts U.S. Students 20 — Highlights of the American Fall in Finland 21 — Join Us for the Spring 2018 Fulbright Events in Finland
Fulbright Finland Alumna Sparks Dialogue to Promote Sense of Inclusion
22 — Fulbright Finland Foundation 24 — Kalenteri / Calendar of Events
Fulbright Finland News on Fulbright Suomi -säätiön sidosryhmälehti, joka ilmestyy kaksi kertaa vuodessa painettuna ja verkkoversiona. Artikkeleissa ilmaistut mielipiteet ovat kirjoittajien omia. Seuraava numero ilmestyy keväällä 2018. Artikkelit ja muu aineisto pyydetään toimittamaan 2.4. mennessä. Aineisto vapaasti lainattavissa, lähde mainittava. Fulbright Finland News is a biannual magazine published by the Fulbright Finland Foundation in print and online. Opinions expressed by authors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Fulbright Finland. The next issue will be published in the spring 2018. The submission deadline for articles and other materials is 2 April. Reproduction allowed, source must be cited. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the material in this publication, Fulbright Finland does not accept liability for any errors or omissions. www.fulbright.fi/en/fulbright-center/fulbright-center-news
Päätoimittaja/Editor-in-Chief Terhi Mölsä Toimittajat/Editors Maija Kettunen (toimituspäällikkö) Suzanne Louis Toimitus/Editing Office Fulbright Finland Foundation Hakaniemenranta 6 FI-00530 Helsinki, FINLAND Tel. +358 44 5535 286 E-mail: office@fulbright.fi Ulkoasu ja taitto/Layout Tanja Mitchell, Grafee
ISSN 2489-2149 (painettu) ISSN 2489-2157 (verkkojulkaisu) Cover: Maxigloss 200 g/m2 Paper: G-Print 115 g/m2 Print circulation: 900 Printed by Erweko Oy
Editorial Council: Anitta Etula Director of International Relations, University of Eastern Finland Outi Hakanen Deputy Director General, Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Protocol Services Sirpa Holmström Head of International Services, Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences Erika Holt Principal Research Scientist, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Sanna Kangasharju Press Counselor, Embassy of Finland, Washington D.C. Ossi V. Lindqvist Professor Emeritus
FINLAND 100
Centennial Gift from the U.S. to Finland
$500,000 from the U.S. Congress to the Fulbright Finland Foundation Throughout the year 2017 the Republic
“Over the past 65 years, the Finnish-
of Finland has celebrated its 100th year
American Fulbright program has become
Executive Officer, Fulbright Finland;
of independence. On the occasion of
a model of excellence for the world’s most
Donna Welton, Chargé d'Affaires,
Finland’s Centenary, the United States
well-known global exchange network,
U.S. Embassy Finland; Sauli Niinistö,
presented a Centennial gift of $500,000
providing over 5,500 Finns and Americans
President of the Republic of Finland
to the Fulbright Finland Foundation.
the opportunity to serve as academic and
From left to right: Terhi Mölsä, Chief
cultural ambassadors and become leadThe gift was announced on August 21,
ers in their field,” President Niinistö said.
conference by the Presidents of both
2017 at the American Embassy in Hel-
He also praised Fulbright Finland’s role in
countries.
sinki at the Reception
increasing collabora-
“Through the Fulbright program, we
commemorating the
tion towards common
are sending more of our best and bright-
solutions for a sus-
est to Finland, forging lasting connec-
tainable Arctic future.
tions between Americans and Finns,” U.S.
65th Anniversary of the Finnish-American Fulbright Agreement and Finland’s Cente-
Fulbright is the cornerstone of the FinnishAmerican academic and cultural collaboration.
“This
gift
will
President Donald Trump noted.
enhance an already
In his speech at the Honorary Doc-
robust Fulbright pro-
tor’s degree Ceremony of the Uni-
gram in Finland and
versity of Minnesota in September
reflects
shared
President Niinistö further emphasized
maintain-
that, thanks to the donation, the educa-
ing people-to-people
tion cooperation between Finland and
connections between
the United States gained significant new
our countries for years
momentum, and that the cooperation
his remarks, President Niinistö noted
to come,” U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Donna
and understanding between Finland and
that Fulbright is the cornerstone of the
Welton said.
the United States will grow stronger.
nary. President Republic
of
of
land Sauli
the Fin-
Niinistö
attended the reception
and
special
delivered
remarks.
In
Finnish-American academic and cultural
Centennial
of
also
In her statement the Finnish Minis-
collaboration, and congratulated the Ful-
announced during President Niinistö’s
ter of Education Sanni Grahn-Laasonen
bright Finland Foundation for its signifi-
visit to the United States at the end of
concluded that the donation “hardly could
cant achievements.
August at the joint White House press
have been directed to a better target.”
4 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
The
goal
gift
our
was
FINLAND 100
The Minister’s statement echoed the spontaneous reactions of the Finnish
The gift was a trending topic in many social media sites. The Finnish Embassy
public at large.
in Washington D.C. reported that the news of the gift was their most popular
The Centennial gift will be used in
social media post of the month of August, reaching over 33,000 people.
full to fund additional special grants and programming by the Fulbright Finland Foundation. Text: Terhi Mölsä Photos: Maija Kettunen More on the Centennial gift on the Fulbright Finland Foundation’s website at: www.fulbright.fi/en/Centennial-gift-media
The newly arrived U.S. Fulbright scholars and students were also welcomed at the Reception commemorating the Centenary and they enjoyed the rare honor to speak with the President of Finland Sauli Niinistö. These smiling faces bring to life the Finnish
@petrisarvamaa U.S. will commit more funds to #Fulbright scholarships with Finland. Great news!
@RothEndowment Have you heard? Finland's turning 100! To celebrate the US is giving $500,000 to the Finland Fulbright Foundation.
@ECA_AS “Through #Fulbright, we are sending more of our best and brightest to Finland, forging lasting connections.” -@POTUS
@SuomiFinland100 The United States presents Finland a centennial gift of an additional $500,000 to @FulbrightFIN http://bit.ly/2vSAqEi #finland100
@KirstiKauppi Thank you! Such a thoughtful present. @FulbrightFIN has had great impact over several decades.
@FinnEmbassyDC The U.S. announces centennial gift of an additional $500,000 to @FulbrightFIN. http://bit.ly/2vSAqEi #Finland100
Kuuntele Yle Radio 1:n ohjelma Suomen Fulbright-ohjelman ainutlaatuisesta ASLA-historiasta, USA:n satavuotislahjasta Fulbright Suomi –säätiölle sekä tunnettujen alumnien ajatuksia ASLA-Fulbright-ohjelman merkityksestä ja vaikutuksista tieteessä, taiteessa ja yhteiskunnassa: Suomi ja Yhdysvallat talvisodasta kylmään sotaan, Fulbright – tärkeä linkki länteen. https://areena.yle.fi/1-4197077
Centenary theme “Together.”
WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 5
Juha Sopanen
PARTNERSHIPS
The agreement was signed by Vesa Taatila, Rector and President of TUAS, and Terhi Mölsä, CEO of the Fulbright Finland Foundation, on November 27, 2017.
New Fulbright-TUAS Scholar Award Fulbright Finland is pleased to announce
“In terms of attracting top experts
and truly create the possibilities for
its new cooperation agreement with
to Finland, we consider our active coop-
tolerance, understanding, and yes, peace.”
Turku University of Applied Sciences
eration with companies and our practice-
(TUAS) establishing the Fulbright-TUAS
oriented methods to be our assets,” says
Find out more and apply:
Scholar Award.
Anu Härkönen, Head of International
www.fulbright.fi/en/fulbright-tuas-scholar-award
Affairs at TUAS. The new grant program provides U.S.
According to David Yoken, Senior
scholars the opportunity to teach at the
Lecturer at TUAS and a member of the
undergraduate and graduate levels as well
Fulbright Finland Foundation Board,
as conduct applied research at Turku Uni-
the Fulbright signing ceremony by TUAS
versity of Applied Sciences. During their
Rector and President Vesa Taatila and
stay, the scholars can also participate in
the Fulbright Finland Foundation’s Chief
TUAS research projects. In the first appli-
Executive Officer Terhi Mölsä was his-
cation round 2019–2020, the grant will
toric.
be awarded in the field of leadership and management.
“The implementation of the Fulbright American scholar program at TUAS will
“This is a brilliant new opportunity
have a transformational impact upon our
for us. The Fulbright program enables
current and future students, teachers, the
our guests to engage in longer-term work
City of Turku, and the Finnish nation,”
at our organization and facilitates the
Yoken says. “As an American citizen, I
search for exact expertise that meets the
sincerely believe the exchange of knowl-
current needs,” says TUAS Rector and
edge between the USA and Finland will
President Vesa Taatila.
lead to solving local and global challenges
VTT and Fulbright Finland Renewed Cooperation Agreement VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland
Chicago and Yun Ji from the University
and the Fulbright Finland Foundation
of North Dakota to Finland. The renewed
renewed their cooperation agreement for
program aims to increase the number of
the Fulbright-VTT Grant in Science, Tech-
scholars in the future and bring up to five
nology and Innovation program.
U.S. scholars to VTT annually.
VTT and Fulbright Finland have had joint grant programs since 2004 and the
www.fulbright.fi/en/research-and-lecturing-
current program was founded in 2012.
opportunities-scholars-and-specialists/
This year the program will bring Miiri
fulbright-vtt-grant-science-technology
Kotche from the University of Illinois at
6 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
Turku University of Applied Sciences “Turku University of Applied Sciences (TUAS) – an inspiring community of 10,000 members – is an innovative and multidisciplinary higher education institution, which creates international competitiveness and well-being for Southwest Finland.” • TUAS offers a wide range of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs in four fields: technology, social services and health care, business, and culture. • Studies at TUAS are working life oriented, combining theoretical studies with professional skills. • A t the core of teaching is Innovation Pedagogy, a new approach to learning developed at TUAS. INNOPEDA® is based on experimenting, sharing knowhow and combining different approaches and it successfully connects teaching, research and development activities, internationality, and cooperation with working life. For further information, please visit www.tuas.fi.
Maija Kettunen
PARTNERSHIPS
Fulbright Finland and University of Eastern Finland
30 Years of Collaboration The Fulbright Finland Foundation and
“The partnership model created by the
the University of Eastern Finland cel-
University of Eastern Finland, the Saas-
Board of Directors of Saastamoinen Founda-
ebrated the 30th anniversary of their
tamoinen Foundation and the Fulbright
tion; T.J. Grubisha, Counselor for Press and
collaboration
Finland Foundation is quite unique among
Cultural Affairs, American Embassy and Chair
the Fulbright programs internation-
of the Fulbright Finland Foundation Board.
ally and an excellent example of seam-
Front row: Marja Karttunen, Board Member
Key representatives from both founda-
less cooperation in the advancement of
of the Board of Directors of Saastamoinen
tions, the U.S. Embassy, the Ministry of
internationalization of higher education
Foundation; Terhi Mölsä, Chief Executive
Education and Culture, and the Ministry
and research,” says Terhi Mölsä, Chief
Officer, Fulbright Finland Foundation; Hilkka
for Foreign Affairs, together with past
Executive Officer of the Fulbright Finland
Soininen, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sci-
and current leadership of the University
Foundation.
ences, University of Eastern Finland
at
the
Saastamoinen
Foundation in Helsinki in November.
Back row: Petteri Karttunen, Chair of the
of Eastern Finland as well as alumni of
“The Fulbright Finland Foundation is
the joint grant programs participated in
one of our most long-standing partners.
Ossi Lindqvist, Rector Emeritus of the
the celebration.
The tripartite collaboration between the
University of Kuopio and former Fulbright
university, the Fulbright Finland Foun-
Finland Board Member, and Anitta Etula, Head
Saastamoinen
dation and the Saastamoinen Foundation
of International Relations of the University of
Foundation and the University of Eastern
has also significantly contributed to the
Eastern Finland, were both recognized with
Finland renewed their cooperation agree-
internationalization and development of
a Certificate of Appreciation for their three
ments for the Fulbright-Saastamoinen
our research,” says Jukka Mönkkönen,
decades of dedicated service for the benefit of
Foundation Distinguished Chairs and
the Rector of the University of Eastern
Finnish-American academic exchanges.
Fulbright-Saastamoinen
Finland.
During the event, the Fulbright Finland Foundation,
the
Foundation
Grants. Through these awards many
Read Ossi Lindqvist's speech about the history
American researchers in health and envi-
www.fulbright.fi/en/fulbright-center/releases/
of the ASLA-Fulbright Program (in Finnish):
ronmental sciences have been able to
fulbright-finland-and-university-eastern-finland-
http://bit.ly/2B9MSDI
conduct pioneering research and lecture
celebrate-30-years
at the University of Eastern Finland.
Fulbright Bicentennial Chair Agreement Renewed with University of Helsinki The Fulbright Bicentennial Chair was
lecturing at the University of Helsinki,
November. The signing was followed by
established in 1976 to institutionalize the
Department of World Cultures, North
the inaugural lecture “‘If You Don’t Speak,
teaching of American history, culture and
American Studies program. Today it is one
No One Will Listen’: Why Everyone Should
language at the University of Helsinki.
of the most prestigious appointments in
Know Clyde Warrior’s Name” by the cur-
The position is available for U.S. schol-
the Fulbright Scholar Program worldwide.
rent Chair, Daniel Cobb.
ars in a variety of fields for research and
The
agreement
was
renewed
in
WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 7
CENTENNIAL AMBASSADORS
Northern Michigan University visit.
Centennial Ambassadors in Action! During the 2017 Finnish Centennial year, the Friends of Fulbright Finland’s Centennial Ambassadors have been busy promoting Fulbright and Finland, bringing the message of opportunity and partnership to communities throughout the United States. Alumni have been very creative putting together activities designed to inform and excite Americans, to bring them closer to a Finnish experience through the Fulbright program. The “Centennial Ambassadors” initiative is part of the official Centenary of Finland’s Independence program. Here are a few examples of what our Centennial Ambassadors are doing. Marlene Broemer (2000-2001 Fulbright Graduate Student at the University of Helsinki) and Suzanne Louis (2001-2002 Fulbright Professional at the Helsinki University of Technology) toured Michigan, visiting four institutions as Centennial Ambassadors. Fulbright Program Advisers at Cranbrook Academy of Art, Northern Michigan University, and Michigan Tech, as well as faculty at Finlandia University, met with these alumni, gathering information about the unique qualities of the Fulbright Finland Program. Ben Zeller (2012-2013 Fulbright Scholar to Åbo Akademi) promoted Finland’s Centennial and various study abroad opportunities in Finland at the Global Fest, Lake Forest College, IL. Alumni Anne Dahlman (2016-2017 Fulbright Specialist to University of Turku) and Kristen Cvancara (2011-2012 Fulbright Scholar to University of Jyväskylä) organized an inspiring session for the faculty of Minnesota State University, Mankato. During the session Kristen and
Sanna Leinonen and Emilia Heimonen (2017–2018 Fulbright
Anne shared their Fulbright stories and
Teachers at Indiana University) participated to the cultural event at
the Fulbright Finland team attended via
the School of Education at Indiana University.
Skype to answer questions. For more Centennial Ambassador stories:
"Centennial Ambassadors" is part of Fulbright Finland's
www.fulbright.fi/en/centennial-ambassadors-activities
commitment to the Generation Study Abroad initiative.
8 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
FULBRIGHT FINLAND 65
How did the international Fulbright Program get started? And why is it now more relevant than ever? Fulbright Finland CEO Terhi Mölsä reflects on the global Fulbright Program’s past, present, and future.
Remembering the Past, Imagining the Future I am going to ask you to imagine with me.
that the United States would locally sell
The Fulbright Finland Centennial Cam-
Imagine yourself in the aftermath
the surplus that otherwise would be left
paign offers concrete opportunities for
of the Second World War, in war-torn
and lost, and would use that money to
everyone to be a part of the network sup-
Europe, trying to grasp the magnitude
fund citizens from those countries to
porting the program and to help multiply
of the destruction, the immense dimen-
come to the United States to study and do
the opportunities that Fulbright Finland
sions of mourning and the loss of life,
research, and Americans to travel abroad
offers to students, scholars and profes-
youths and dreams, lost on the front.
for the same purpose. In other words, he
sionals. Halfway through the 4-year
After the guns have gone silent, the
took a completely unrelated piece of leg-
period, the campaign has already mate-
rebuilding begins, a gigantic effort in
islation on a completely unrelated topic,
rialized into several new partnership
recovery and reconstruction — and heal-
and turned it into what
agreements,
ing. Not only physically, but mentally,
later became the most
and in-kind support,
psychologically — neighbors having
well-known
academic
fought neighbors.
exchange
program
I want you to imagine this moment,
worldwide. – So as you
because it is this moment that witnessed
can see, the only thing
the birth of one of the most brilliant ideas
that can make idealis-
in the history of public diplomacy.
tic dreams incompatible
A Senator in the United States had a dream. He dreamt that one day people and
with realism is the lack
The Fulbright program was envisioned as a peace program.
of creativity.
nations would at last learn to live in peace.
That Senator was J. William Fulbright,
As a former Rhodes scholar he knew first-
and the program I am talking about car-
hand the power of people-to-people con-
ries his name.
pledges
as well as direct donations. A remarkable and historic contribution to the campaign was the Centennial Gift of the United States to Finland, an additional half million dollars from the
U.S. Congress to the Fulbright Finland Foundation. Consider this as your invitation to be
nections and the power of international
The Fulbright program was envisioned
exchange. So he developed a plan, and the
as a peace program. As we follow today’s
plan needed funding. He was well aware
news, filled with wars and hatred, both
I urge all the students here today at our
that at that point in time it would be polit-
near and far, I can only ask you: has there
American Voices Seminar to think about
ically impossible to try to pass a law for
ever been a greater need for programs
your own voice, and the decisions and dif-
funding exchanges using U.S. taxpayers’
such as Fulbright than there is today?
ference you can make. Whether it is your
money. The dream seemed idealistic and
a part of the campaign and the program — and to make a difference!
The wartime surplus funds are long
study or research aspirations, your career
gone, of course, and over the decades
choices, or the future for you and your
But the Senator took note of the fact
many other things about the program
generation, whatever it is that you have
that at the same time a bill regarding
have changed as well. But the fundamen-
on your mind right now, allow yourself to
wartime surplus was being discussed in
tal ideal remains the same. The Fulbright
think big.
the U.S. Congress. After the war, there
Finland vision is to empower the minds
Martin Luther King did not begin his
was left-over hardware and equipment
that will find global solutions to tomor-
famous speech by saying “I have a plan…”
lying around on the fronts in Europe and
row’s challenges by fostering academic
He said: “I have a dream!”
the Pacific, even food supplies in stor-
and professional expertise and excel-
age that were beginning to rot. Nobody
lence in leadership. There is nothing
seemed to quite know what to do with
humble about this vision. It is ambitious
them. Transporting everything back to
and idealistic on purpose. Just as the good
the United States would have been pro-
Senator proved to us, first you must have a
hibitively expensive and was not possible.
purpose, a dream. The plan and the fund-
just plain unrealistic.
So what does that have to do with international exchanges, you might ask? — The answer is: everything! The Senator proposed to the Congress
ing will follow.
Dear friends: Dream with me!
This is the opening speech by the Fulbright Fin-
In early 2016 the Fulbright Finland Foun-
land Foundation CEO Terhi Mölsä at the 2017
dation launched an ambitious 4-year fund
American Voices Seminar at the University of
raising and “friend-raising” campaign.
Turku in October 2017.
WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 9
FRIENDS OF FULBRIGHT FINLAND
Friends of Fulbright Finland 10 Years 2017 marks the 10th year that Friends of
stay abreast of the latest developments in
In recent years, Friends of Fulbright
Fulbright Finland (FoFF) and the Amer-
grant programs, learn about new partner-
Finland has extended its mission by the
ican Alumni Program have been active.
ships, convey information about grant-
creation of the Welcome Network and
Building on the strength and vitality of
ees, encourage members to attend local
the Centennial Ambassadors Program.
these foundational years, FoFF strives
gatherings of alumni, and more recently
These initiatives offer opportunities for
for an even more dynamic future ahead.
to enlist the support of alumni to donate
alumni to stay involved in a very active
to the FoFF Alumni Enrichment Fund and
way. Welcome Network alumni reach out
Fulbright Finland Centennial Fund.
to Finns pursuing their Fulbright project
Communicating with alumni in the U.S. has been the cornerstone to build the pro-
In 2012 a new fundraising plan was
in the U.S., while Centennial Ambassa-
gram. It was in 2004 that the first electronic
developed to create an endowment to
dors throughout the U.S. promote Ful-
communique was sent out to hundreds of
support a grant ear-marked for alumni.
bright and Finland in the broad mission
alumni in the U.S., sending Season’s Greet-
2018 will be the 3rd year that the grant is
of extending the exchange environment
ings! Since then more than 60 Fulbright-
awarded, encouraging American alumni
between Finland and the U.S.
Finland messages have gone from the
to return to Finland to build and maintain
In 2015 a FoFF Council of American
desk of Fulbright Finland’s Chief Execu-
connections with Finnish hosts and col-
alumni was initiated to assist the Hel-
tive Officer. These messages help everyone
leagues.
sinki-based team to generate ideas and
2007 First invitation for American alumni to be part of the new FoFF Alumni Network
May 2008 First FoFF alumni gathering, in Virginia
Connections
December 2004 First Fulbright Finland e-message to American alumni, sending Season’s greetings 10 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
2011 FoFF Artist Exhibit at FinnFest, San Diego, CA
Corner
Fall 2009 First “Connections Corner” Alumni News in biannual magazine
FRIENDS OF FULBRIGHT FINLAND
On Being a Fulbrighter Alumni Reflections Through the Years Alumni stories offer a glimpse into the way that Finland penetrates the thinking and actions of Americans who select to join the Fulbright Finland community. My Fulbright experience dramatically and
outside the classroom and be an observer
profoundly exceeded my expectations. It
and change-maker in my craft. Ongoing
was a rich, rewarding, and transformative
support of the Fulbright programs will
time for me, both professionally and per-
continue the development of global lead-
sonally. And it provided the opportunity
ers and change-makers around the world.
to cultivate long-lasting friendships and
– Andrea Schmuttermair
numerous professional connections. – Roger Coulombe
Living and conducting research in Finland has been a remarkable and life changing
My Fulbright has been transformative for
opportunity. Whether it was the people,
me on a number of levels, both as an artist
culture, environment or research, I come
and as a person.
away from Finland with a new vision – Leah Beeferman
regarding what it means to live a fulfilling life. Being a Fulbrighter is not just about
From the research perspective, the Ful-
the project and what you hope to gain, but
bright experience was a highly produc-
instead, what you can give back. – Benjamin Alldritt
tive period in terms of both hands-on support for the American alumni pro-
research and proposal preparation. From
gram. Each Council member is appointed
the teaching side, it has been a satisfy-
My Fulbright Finland experience has
for a two-year term and representation is
ing experience to teach such mature and
proven to be immensely valuable during
sought from all Fulbright Finland grant
intelligent students.
my professional career at home. From my
programs. The vision is to keep a strong,
– John Pichtel
active, and innovative alumni program in the U.S.
first interview to my daily work, my colleagues and managers have seen the value
Through experiencing the Finnish cul-
of my Fulbright experience. Through my
ture first-hand, I have learned about a
Fulbright research grant I not only devel-
loyal society that values trust and sup-
oped better skills and got exposure to
port. By connecting with professionals
innovative ideas, I showed that I am open
All the projects and initiatives of Friends of
and students in the educational com-
to new experiences, eager to learn from
Fulbright Finland are chronicled on the website
munity, I have made global partnerships
others, and that I have the initiative to
at www.fulbright.fi/en/alumni/foff.
for future phenomenon-based projects.
develop and manage my own work.
Text: Suzanne Louis
– Taylor Tyger
The Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching Grant has allowed me to step
2017 Creation of Centennial Ambassador program honoring the Finnish Centenary March 2012 Launch of fundraising in U.S. for the FoFF Alumni Enrichment Award
June 2013 First volunteers at Fulbright Finland booth at FinnFest, Hancock, MI
November 2017 Celebration of 10th anniversary of Friends of Fulbright Finland at Finnish Ambassador’s Residence, D.C.
2015 First Alumni Enrichment Grant awarded
2016 FoFF Welcome Network established
May 2015 Formation of the FoFF Alumni Council WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 11
FRIENDS OF FULBRIGHT FINLAND
Alumni Celebrating the Centennial at the Ambassador’s Residence in Washington D.C. Ambassador Kirsti Kauppi welcomed American alumni of the Finnish Fulbright program, and friends, to the Ambassador’s Residence in November, to celebrate Finland’s Centenary together. During the evening, many shared plans to revisit Finland, to connect with Finn-
Annie Brandt, Fulbright
ish colleagues and hosts, and to find new
Teacher 2015–2016 and Cristi
ways to make Finland more visible on
Marchetti, Fulbright Teacher,
the American scene. Discussion was ani-
Fulbright Finland Inter-Country
mated, with guests sharing memories
Travel grant 2016.
about their time in Finland and about being a Fulbrighter. Alumni also discussed some of the projects that Friends of Fulbright Finland (FoFF) has developed, especially the Centennial Ambassador outreach and the FoFF Alumni Enrichment Award. The 10th anniversary of FoFF was noted as a special milestone of the alumni program. Fulbright Finland Alumni Ken Kolson and Peter MacKeith were presented with certificates of appreciation by the Fulbright Finland CEO Terhi Mölsä. Both have made significant contributions to ensure the strength of the alumni program and to the future of Fulbright Finland. In a surprise move, Mike Loovis, Fulbright Scholar 2010, presented the Ambassador with a photo of the Spirit of Finland sculpture by Ken Valimaki that now marks the entry to the Finnish Heritage Museum in Fairport Harbor, Ohio. Text: Suzanne Louis Photos: Helena Häkäri
12 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
Terhi Mölsä and Ambassador Kauppi with Mike and Cindy Loovis.
ALUMNI IN FOCUS
Maija Kettunen
Investing in Optimism
Father and son Ragnar and Magnus Backström talk about their experiences on Fulbright scholarships thirty years apart, in 1951 and 1981. Ragnar Backström has just celebrated
land and the USA. ‘Everything was so
his 90th birthday, and still remembers in
big. Arriving in the United States in 1951
vivid detail his time as an ASLA scholar in
to me was arriving in a new world, or the
California in 1951. One of the first Finns
new world, as Dvořák put it in one of his
to receive an ASLA-Fulbright award, he
symphonies. The difference in the stan-
was 24 years old, a recent graduate of the
dard of living between the rich U.S. and
Swedish School of Economics in Helsinki,
post-war Finland was enormous, to put
when he made his life-changing trip from
it mildly. In Finland at that time, we were
Finland to the West Coast USA, to study at
still paying heavy war reparations to the
the University of California, Berkeley.
Soviet Union. There were no western cars,
My experience on the Fulbright couldn’t have been better. It has been an influence all through my life. – Ragnar Backström
Ragnar had been working at a shipping
and many things we now take for granted
company during his undergraduate years.
were unavailable. We couldn’t get fruit
He explains that the ASLA-Fulbright
like oranges or bananas. Today we Finns
scholarship gave him the opportunity to
are the heaviest coffee drinkers in the
ranches and a rodeo, but also went to see
study innovative economic and business
world, but coffee was very scarce then,
the local court, a fire-station and even a
ideas that brought a new perspective on
and strictly limited through rationing.
jail. It was all new to me!’
industry back home. ‘I was very proud and
You can imagine that coming to the U.S.
excited when I got the opportunity to go
was a very pleasant shock!’
Forging an International Outlook
to Berkeley,’ says Ragnar. ‘I studied in the
‘At first we spent a few days in New
Following his initial orientation, once
Business Administration Department,
York City, and then we went down to
in California, Ragnar lived in Berkeley’s
and took courses in international eco-
Austin, Texas for a six-week language
International House, a coeducational and
nomic relations, export marketing, ocean
and orientation course, which gave me
multicultural student residence founded
transportation and personnel adminis-
a very good start. There were so many
with the specific goal of helping overseas
tration. Many were still new subjects then
new things to learn and understand,
students integrate, and allowing local
in Finland. It was wonderful to be exposed
including very useful practical details,
students to learn about other cultures.
to all these new ideas.’
like learning colloquial expressions, and
‘It was quite a contrast, coming from
common abbreviations people used in
chilly Finland to the California climate,
Arriving in a New World
the U.S.’ Aside from lectures on language
and also experiencing the easy-going
Ragnar recalls his first impressions of
and culture, Ragnar explains, the course
lifestyle on the West Coast. I found the
the contrast between early 1950s Fin-
included field trips. ‘We visited oilfields,
Californians to be very nice people, very
WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 13
ALUMNI IN FOCUS
Most of all, what I learned on the Fulbright scholarship is the importance of optimism and keeping a positive outlook. – Magnus Backström
welcoming. In Finland, we had just come
land, I had fresh ideas that people at home
Another Fulbrighter in the Family
out of the very difficult war years, with no
had hardly heard of. Some were accepted,
Ragnar’s son, Magnus Backström, is
international contact during that time. At
some I was given to understand the time
another Fulbright alumnus, winning
the International House, there were two
was not yet right. After all, this was the
a scholarship to study at Stanford and
hundred U.S. students and two hundred
early 1950s. In business, it took time to
Berkeley in 1981, exactly thirty years
foreign students, including many stu-
accept modern methods. When it came to
after Ragnar. ‘Friends of ours won-
dents from Japan, India and Indonesia.
business and industry, we didn’t yet have
dered whether Fulbright scholarships
It was wonderful to become acquainted
the economic resources
with people from all over the world. We
for modernizing. Even
stayed for a whole semester, and I learned
when there was good
a lot about other cultures as well as U.S.
will to put new ideas
society. The International House had a
into practice, it wasn’t
very good program office which arranged
always
excursions and visits which we would
feasible.’
are hereditary in our family!’ Ragnar jokes.
While in California, Ragnar became a
soon found an opportu-
My goal was always to come back home and invest that experience in Finland.
popular invited speaker at local volun-
nity to put what he had
tary organizations, including the Rotary
learned in California to
– Magnus Backström
Club, Junior Chamber of Commerce, and
good use in Finland. As
Lions International, of which he is still
a lecturer at the Navigational Institute of
‘My father had always spoken very
an active member today. ‘The university
Kotka, Ragnar taught future sea captains
fondly of his time in the U.S.,’ Magnus
encouraged us to participate in everyday
about international transport and ship-
says. ‘It was very inspiring for him. In the
life. By accepting invitations to speak at
ping economics - subjects he had studied
early 1950s, Finland was quite a closed
club meetings I learned a lot myself and
at Berkeley. Ragnar has also dedicated
society, and not an affluent country. My
made new friends.’
much of his time to research and con-
father did not come from an affluent
‘Clubs like these didn’t exist in Finland
servation of Russian imperial history in
family. In California, he was suddenly
yet. I was able to help when they started
Finland, as director of the Langinkoski
exposed to all this freedom of choice, and
over here, as I could explain to my Finn-
Imperial Fishing Lodge museum in
given the chance to meet so many dif-
ish friends how these organizations were
Kotka.
ferent people. He absorbed a lot from the
never have undertaken on our own.’
economically
However,
Ragnar
Magnus explains that his experiences on a youth camp in Texas and
Colorado
orga-
nized by Lions International, together with his father’s memories of Berkeley, encouraged him to apply for his own Fulbright scholarship.
run in the U.S.’ Particularly inspired by
Looking back on the past sixty years,
environment and his fellow students. I
his contact with the California branch
Ragnar reflects on the changes he has
think the contrast between Finland and
of Lions International, a non-religious,
witnessed in Finnish society. ‘There is a
California in 1981 wasn’t as big as in 1951,
apolitical club organisation dedicated to
very big difference, because we were sort
but still it was a great experience. Finland
international community service, Ragnar
of fenced in then. Of course the Second
was much more affluent then, there was
has been involved in the Finnish Lions
World War was part of that, but as a nation
more than one TV channel and more than
Club since it was founded. ‘It is my 70th
we were reticent and not exactly open
one radio station. But California was still
year as a member of Lions this year.’
to new ideas. That’s just the way it was
very different, and I did get that exposure
then. Now it’s totally different.’ Shortly
to a different way of life.’
Fresh Ideas and a Lifelong Influence
after Ragnar returned from his Fulbright
‘Initially I had plans for doctoral stud-
Ragnar says that his experience as a Ful-
Scholarship, Finland hosted the 1952
ies. I wanted to improve my quantitative
bright scholar made a profound impact
Olympic Games, an event which Ragnar
skills in mathematics and statistics, and
on his life and career. ‘My experience on
views as a turning point. ‘The Olympics
I thought the U.S. would be a very good
the Fulbright couldn’t have been better.
were a very important event for Finland
place to do this,’ Magnus recalls. On the
It has been an influence all through my
and us Finns. That brought a shower of
recommendation of one of his profes-
life. I feel its effects every week, I would
internationalism into Finland. It gave us
sors at the Swedish School of Econom-
say. But above all, when I returned to Fin-
inspiration for going forward.’
ics in Helsinki, the Nobel Prize-winning
14 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
ALUMNI
economist Bengt Holmström, also a
ened my view. My mother and father were
an extremely important role in increas-
Fulbright as well as a Stanford alumnus,
always very liberal people, very accept-
ing international understanding, not only
Magnus joined the Stanford masters
ing of different cultures, but studying in
with the U.S., which was the original idea,
program in Operations Research before
the U.S. enabled me to get to know people
but also with the international commu-
continuing to Berkeley for doctoral stud-
from different cultures at first hand.’
nity in general. It was a mind-expanding
ies. He has since built a successful career
Like his father, Magnus also stayed at
experience for me personally, and I’ve
in banking and investments, working in
International House while at Berkeley.
been fortunate to study in the U.S., as
Helsinki, Stockholm and New York City.
‘Even though I was in the USA, I made
well as benefit from the Finnish educa-
As Chief Strategist for Elite Asset Man-
many lifelong friendships with other stu-
tion system. My goal was always to come
agement in Helsinki, he continues to work
dents from other countries around the
back home and invest that experience in
in an international context, investigating
world – France, Ireland, Japan, Mexico and
Finland.’
global investment opportunities.
other Nordic countries. They were facing
‘The optimism of the Americans made
the same obstacles and new experiences
a very deep impression on me, and I hope
as I was, so it was easy to form bonds.’
I imported a little of that back to Finland,’
Optimism and Internationalism Like Ragnar, Magnus reflects that Ful-
‘I would say I’m a bit more social, more
Ragnar adds. ‘Most of all, what I learned
bright has been an important influence
approachable, because of these experi-
on the Fulbright scholarship is the impor-
on his life and career. ‘It made it pos-
ences. There’s a stereotype of the typi-
tance of optimism and keeping a positive
sible to get this U.S. experience. It made
cal Finn at a cocktail party looking at his
outlook. That’s something I’ve tried to do
a huge impact on my life. Because of that,
shoes. I was that person, but today I think
throughout my life.’
I’m probably more international, I have
I’m better at reaching out and also accept-
a wider understanding of different opin-
ing other people. More broadly, I think
ions, religions, and politics. It has broad-
Finnish Fulbright scholarships have had
Text: Louisa Gairn
Join the Alumni Association Are you interested in building connec-
your experience and stay involved with
the membership benefits such as the Ful-
tions and developing projects to enhance
the Fulbright community. The association
bright Finland News magazine twice a
the Fulbright experience and exchanges
is looking forward to welcome also mem-
year, international networking opportu-
between Finland and the USA? Join one
bers who are not alumni of the Finnish
nities and special events.
of the oldest Fulbright alumni associa-
Fulbright program. You can join as a sup-
www.fulbright.fi/en/alumni/alumni-association
tions in the world, the ASLA-Fulbright
porting member, and become a part of an
Alumni Association in Finland!
active association to get involved in build-
If you are an American alum of the Finn-
ing awareness of the Fulbright program
ish Fulbright program and reside in the
through events, meetings, and lectures.
United States, participate in the Friends
Finnish Fulbrighters often talk about their grant period as a life changing experience.
Become a member by paying the
By joining the association you can continue
annual membership fee 25€ and receive
of Fulbright Finland (FoFF) network! www.fulbright.fi/en/alumni/foff
AVANTO, Exercise in Self-Discovery It was a short road for me to develop a
There is a mental component to pre-
inside with a crispy covering of electri-
strong liking for Finland, Finnish peo-
paring yourself for the freezing water,
fied net. If you have the chance to do it,
ple and traditions. Early on I learned
and of course you do need to be in good
make an avanto excursion and see how
how to appreciate Finnish winter, work-
health.
you describe it. My American friends
ing with the natural forces, that is snow,
With some dedication you can find
back home just don’t get it, with a puck-
your skin improving, your circulation
ered-up face they will always say, “but I
I became an avanto enthusiast.
becoming stronger, and your bad fat
don’t like cold water.” Avanto is not cold
My initiation came through a trusted
turning into the good fat that keeps
water...it’s a complete body, mind, spirit
internal organs warm and protected.
encounter with Nature.
ice, cold.
colleague who was an avid winter swimmer, sans sauna! And after my first
A great winter swim experience
exploratory experience, when I had to
includes friends, a group dip, and some
Avantouinti: Winter “swimming”
be reminded to turn around and walk
sort of imposing weather – snowfall or
through a hole in the ice
back toward the shore, I was hooked.
brilliant sun, even blowing rain. When
Especially seeing the ageless ladies in
the air temperature is below freezing
the changing room, who had practiced
and the water close to freezing, guess
Text: Suzanne Louis, Mid-Career
avanto for many decades, I was con-
what feels warm! Electric even. I like
Professional Development Grant 2001
vinced that at last I had discovered my
to say after a really perfect avanto, I
Originally published in the
extreme sport.
feel like a baked Alaska, melted on the
Fulbright Center News spring 2008.
WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 15
Maija Kettunen
ALUMNI NEWS
Vinkkejä ja verkostoitumista ASLA-Fulbright -alumniyhdistyksen il-
ASLA-Fulbright Graduate- ja Ful-
lanvietto toi yhteen yhdysvaltalaiset
bright-Technology Industries of Finland
stipendiaatit, Fulbright-alumnit sekä jo
-stipendit maisteri- ja tohtoriopintoihin
valitut lukuvuoden 2018–2019 suomalai-
Yhdysvalloissa lukuvuodeksi 2019–2020
set Fulbright Graduate -stipendiaatit. Jo
tulevat hakuun jälleen helmikuussa 2018.
perinteeksi muodostunut illanvietto järjestettiin uusien suomalaisten maisteri-
Teksti ja kuva: Maija Kettunen
ja tohtoriopiskelijoiden orientaatiopäivän päätteeksi. Uusille stipendiaateille ilta tarjosi verkostoitumisen ohella vinkkejä yli
Lisätietoja: www.fulbright.fi/fi/stipendiohjelmat/ stipendiohjelmat-maisteri-ja-tohtoritason-opintoihinja-tutkimukseen
opistopaikan hakuun Yhdysvalloissa.
Fulbright Made Me a World Banker Linda Tammisto
Two years ago, I started my Master of Science in Foreign Service program at Georgetown University in Washington D.C. Two years later, I find myself working at the World Bank headquarters a few miles down the road.
Two Fulbright Finland Alumni Named UNESCO Chairs
Fulbright brought me to Georgetown. Georgetown brought me to the World Bank. At the World Bank, I help rebuild conflict countries in the Middle East and
As the UNESCO Chair on Values, Dialogue
ther highlight the role of education in
and Human Rights, University of Helsin-
responding to, and building awareness
Georgetown was extremely helpful in
ki’s Professor Arto Kallioniemi (2015-2016
of contemporary global challenges. Inte-
providing the knowledge, access and con-
Study of the U.S. Institute for Scholars on
grating peace, human rights and global
nections. I had both classmates, alumni
Religious Pluralism in the U.S.) will be in a
citizenship education into the curricu-
and professors who helped me navigate
leading position in Finnish society to pro-
lum, teacher education, teaching mate-
the organization that employs more than
mote values, shape dialogue and increase
rials and learning environments are
10,000 professionals in 120 countries.
the awareness of human rights issues in
at the core of the project. It will have a
None of this would have been possible
education.
very important role in developing both
without the opportunities that Fulbright
teacher and school education in Finland
provided me with. Thank you, Fulbright
and beyond.
Finland!
Having University of Helsinki Professor Hannele Niemi (1989-1990 ASLA–Fulbright Short Term Grant) as the UNESCO
North Africa.
Fulbright Finland congratulates the
Chair on Educational Ecosystems for
two new UNESCO Chairs!
Miika Tomi
Equity and Quality of Learning will fur-
Text: Mirka McIntire
ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant 2015-2016
16 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
DONORS MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Donors Make a Difference The Fulbright Finland Centennial Fund campaign was launched in 2016 to honor
Centennial Fund has also been generously
the 100th anniversary of Finland’s independence. The goal was to create new part-
supported by Fulbright Finland alumni JY
nerships and raise funds and friends in order to significantly expand exchanges
Zhu and Patrick Miller. A sincere thank
between Finland and the United States and to bring together the best scientists,
you also to the American alumni who
academics, educators, artists, and future leaders in the two countries.
have recently sent in gifts to the Friends of Fulbright Finland (FoFF) Alumni
Half way through the 4-year campaign it
conveys a sincere thank you to all
Enrichment Fund: Philip
has already materialized into significant
its recent donors. The Foundation is
Marlene Broemer, Nancy Commins, Kay
new partnership agreements, pledges and
particularly pleased to recognize those
Kohl, Edwin M. Loovis, David C. Major
in-kind support as well as direct dona-
persons
and Patricia Hart, and Karen Martin.
tions. A remarkable and historic contribu-
qualify them as founding members of
On this page, two of Fulbright Fin-
tion to the campaign was the Centennial
the Fulbright Finland Centennial Fund:
land’s alumni donors reflect on the Ful-
Gift of the United States to Finland, a half
Charles C. Adams, Jr., BJ Deering and
bright impact and their reasons to give to
million dollars from the U.S. Congress to
Jay Gillette, Kirsi Komi, Peter MacKeith,
Fulbright Finland.
the Fulbright Finland Foundation.
Bhaskar Rao, James Stock, Juhani Talvia,
The Fulbright Finland Foundation
whose
generous
donations
Alperson,
Carol Tenopir and Gerald Lundeen. The
Inspiring Alumni Support Supporting people who are expanding international cooperation is in itself an important and rewarding endeavor.
University mergers have become a frequent occurrence in the United States and Europe as institutions seek to strengthen their research and innovation capabilities. As a Fulbright scholar interested in comparative higher education issues, I was fortunate to spend a few months in 2010-‐2011, at the new Aalto University. The University was the result of a very carefully planned merger of three prestigious Finnish institutions: the University of Art and Design in Helsinki, the Hel-
Fulbright Finland helps maintain
land’s centennial year, it’s an opportune
sinki School of Economics, and the Hel-
valued ties between Fulbright schol-
time to involve more Fulbright alumni
sinki University of Technology.
ars in Finland and the United States. For
in both Finland and the United States in
From the outset, the expectation of
instance, a project grant can enable Ful-
Fulbright Finland. The goal is to increase
key University constituencies – students,
bright alumni from our two countries
the amount of financial aid available to
enterprises, and government – was that
to collaborate on a project of concern
alumni for special projects.
Aalto University would be an important
to both nations, such as sustainabil-
Supporting people who are expanding
source of innovation for Finland. Incor-
ity. Meanwhile an individual grant may
international cooperation is in itself an
porating perspectives of diverse disci-
give a Fulbright alum the opportunity to
important and rewarding endeavor.
plines was viewed as critical to developing
update exceptional work begun abroad
innovations that could help drive the
years earlier. So it’s not surprising why
country’s growth, create jobs, and expand
such endeavors inspire alumni support
Kay Kohl
exports in a global knowledge economy.
of Fulbright Finland. This being Fin-
Fulbright-Schuman Scholar 2010-2011
Supporting the Next Generation
Senator Fulbright’s vision for the Fulbright
designers and artists in their creative edu-
Programs was one of “peace through
cation and lives through my scholarship
international education.” This is both
gift to the Fulbright Finland Foundation,
an eternal and a timely vision, as neces-
and I encourage others in similar positions
sary now as it was following World War
to consider making their gift, as well.
II. As a beneficiary of a Fulbright Finland Fellowship - one which transformed my
Peter MacKeith
education and work – I am grateful to the
Dean and Professor of Architecture
Fulbright Finland Foundation for their
Fay Jones School of Architecture and
support of me at an important moment
Design, University of Arkansas
in my life. As a Fulbright Finland Ambassador, I am happy that I can now in turn
Photo: Washington University in St. Louis
support the next generation of Finnish
WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 17
CURRENT U.S. GRANTEES
Finland’s Appeal Evolving
High Quality Research in Environmental and Health Sciences Attracts U.S. Students Traditionally U.S. students have come
bold solutions to the current societal and
to Finland to study or do research in
environmental challenges are examples
the fields of Architecture, Music and
of U.S. students’ reasons for selecting
Social Sciences. In recent years stu-
Finland as their study or research desti-
dents interested in Finland’s approach
nation.
to challenges in Environmental and
On the average, approximately ten
Health Sciences have been represented
U.S. post-baccalaureate students arrive
in growing numbers in the applicant
to Finland through the Fulbright Finland
pool for Finland.
Foundation each year to pursue studies or research at a Finnish university or
U.S. students select Finland because Fin-
research institute. Grantees come to Fin-
land ranks high in global comparisons in
land to complete a full master’s or doctoral
fields such as Energy Solutions or Bioin-
degree or to take courses as a non-degree
formatics, or because Finland has a world-
student. Fulbright U.S. Students can also
renowned research group, for example in
join a Finnish research group or con-
Gene Therapy that the student wishes to
duct their self-created research project
join. Many applicants have also learned
under the guidance of an academic advi-
about exceptional and robust research
sor. Students select their host institution
material or data available in Finland in
independently based on their academic
their particular field of interest. Finland’s
interest and goals.
Fulbright U.S. Student benefits •• monthly grant and travel allowance •• supplementary accident and sickness benefit •• four-day orientation training in Helsinki •• personal advising services •• enrichment and networking opportunities throughout the year •• full two-year tuition scholarship for Master’s studies in selected universities. www.fulbright.fi/en/graduatestudies-and-research/fulbrightus-student-program
basic income experiment, the unique biodiversity information portal and other
U.S. Graduate Student Stories
Text: Karoliina Kokko
Health, Nature, Sustainability When applying for the Fulbright, I knew I wanted to come to the Arctic because of my interest in arctic health. I looked at several arctic countries before deciding to apply to Finland. I was impressed by Finland’s high ranking in gender equality, happiness, and education. The climate, landscape, and the close relationship Finns share with nature intrigued me. My ultimate deciding factor though was finding someone to research Arctic health with at the University of Oulu’s Thule Institute. In addition to being able to study Arctic health in Finland, I also wanted to experience living in one of the most sustainable countries in the world. Since I’ve been here, I’ve struggled to sort my recycling into bins labeled in Finnish, dyed my fingers purple picking blueberries, and I’ve accidently put salt in my coffee because I couldn’t read that a box didn’t say “sugar.” I’m enjoying each and every moment and misstep of my Finnish adventure. I can’t imagine my Fulbright experience anywhere else but Finland. Audrey Waits Fulbright-EDUFI Fellowship 2017-2018 University of Oulu
18 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
CURRENT U.S. GRANTEES
Connecting with Arctic Researchers climate change. Writing from my desk in
addition, the Arctic Studies Program at
I have been fascinated by the polar
Massachusetts, my research was largely
the University of Lapland is a unique
regions of the globe since traveling to
theoretical in nature and abstract in
non-degree program that will allow me to
Antarctica during my sophomore year of
application. Spending a year in northern
pair my research with a more traditional
college. The North and South Poles have
Finland will allow me to understand the
classroom environment. Finally, the Arc-
a mythic weight, as elusive and compel-
nuances of life in the Arctic and the inter-
tic Centre is home to some of the best
ling as outer space or the deepest oceans.
sectional nature of Arctic peoples, poli-
scholars and researchers in the world and
However, the Arctic is not merely a place
tics, and policies.
I am honored to have the opportunity to
of dreams but rather a complex web of
Finland is the Chairman of the Arc-
social, political, and economic factors. I
tic Council for the next two years which
wrote my senior thesis on the role of the
means that there will be numerous
Gemma Holt
Arctic Council in supporting sustainable
opportunities to connect with Arctic
Fulbright U.S. Student Grantee 2017-2018
development and adaptive responses to
researchers from all over the world. In
University of Lapland
work with them.
Investigating the Circular Economy I chose to apply for the Fulbright student award specifically at Lappeenranta University of Technology because I was attracted to the Sustainability Science and Solutions program. I liked the systems thinking approach that the program had marketed in regards to sustainability, and thought that this way of thinking would be helpful for me to better study and understand applications of the circular economy. Courses such as Advanced Life Cycle Assessment will aid me in my under-
Aditya Ramesh on the right.
standing of industrial operations from an environmental perspective. As part of my
lots of investments being made in scaling
Master’s thesis, I would like to identify
the circular economy in Finland!
and describe opportunities in which the circular economy can scale even further.
Aditya Ramesh
For more reasons to study in Finland see videos
As we learned in SITRA’s presentation to
Fulbright-Lappeenranta University
on Fulbright Finland’s YouTube channel:
us during Fulbright orientation, there are
of Technology Grantee 2017-2018
www.youtube.com/fulbrightfinland
WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 19
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE AMERICAN FALL IN FINLAND
Vaughn Shirey and Audrey Waits teaching the audience marching band choreography.
XXV American Voices
Dialogue between Nations, Institutions and Individuals Every year over one hundred North Amer-
example of our long-term collabora-
it brings together students and scholars
ican Studies students come to listen to the
tion with Fulbright Finland,” says Senior
from the United States and Finland for
Fulbright grantees present on a myriad of
Lecturer of the North American Stud-
a dialogue and chance to learn from one
topics related to the culture, society and
ies program Janne Korkka. The seminar
another. “The seminar seeks to bridge
life of the United States of America. The
is included in the study program which
research, researchers and students from
annual American Voices seminar, orga-
ensures the continuity of the collabora-
the very beginning of their university
nized jointly by the Fulbright Finland
tion and that there is always an audience
studies, a goal which we take very seri-
Foundation and the University of Turku,
eager to participate in the discussion.
ously in Turku. Meeting American spe-
has enabled a dialogue between nations,
“American Voices is a compulsory part of
cialists and hearing their talks is a great
institutions and individuals already for
the North American Studies program, and
opportunity for our students,” Korkka
twenty-five years.
students get credit points for attending.
concludes.
“American Voices is a highlight of
Up to a hundred students attend the sem-
the academic year for the North Ameri-
inar, and many return year after year,”
can Studies Program (NAMS) at the Uni-
Korkka says.
Text and photo: Maija Kettunen
versity of Turku. The seminar series has
American Voices seminar serves also
been running for 25 years, and it’s a great
another important purpose. Every year
www.fulbright.fi/en/american-voices-seminar
to the newly renovated Parliament House
Fulbright-University of Tampere Scholar
ing by parliamentary members. We are
which reopened in September. Member
David Timberlake was delighted for the
grateful to Fulbright Finland, our host MP
of Parliament Antti Kurvinen hosted a
privilege: “Following lunch, we visited
Kurvinen, and staff at the Parliament for
lunch and gave the Fulbrighters an intro-
the Plenary Hall where we observed the
the informative tour.”
duction to the Finnish political system.
Finnish government in action with vot-
Text: Maija Kettunen
Seminar information and program:
Thanksgiving Fulbright Finland Style “The annual Thanksgiving gathering at the Bicentennial Residence brings together the extended Fulbright Finland family and represents some of the best aspects of the program, such as community, collegiality, critical engagement, and cross-cultural sharing,” says Fulbright Bicentennial Chair Daniel Cobb (in the photo with his wife Nicole), who hosted the traditional Thanksgiving potluck dinner this year. Terhi Mölsä
The two days of Thanksgiving events also included a visit to the Fazer chocolate factory and a game of floorball with the Fulbright Finland staff team. A very special opportunity was the visit
20 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
INTERNATIONALIZATION SERVICES
Join Us for the Spring 2018 Fulbright Events in Finland Welcome American Grantees
the teaching of North American Studies
Engineering and Economics to Envi-
Arrival Orientation for
in Finland, and update and share infor-
ronmental Sciences and Arctic related
New American Grantees
mation about U.S. Embassy, Canadian
themes.
January 25-26, 2018, Helsinki
Embassy, and Fulbright resources.
This year’s Fulbright Forum is organized jointly by Fulbright Finland, Uni-
Increase Student Mobility Between Finland and the U.S.
versity of Helsinki and Aalto University.
grantees to Finland! The arrival orientation for new U.S. Fulbright grantees will
Fulbright Capacity-Building Workshop:
of charge.
take place in various locations in Hel-
Establishing Partnership Agreements with
sinki. Fulbright grantees will be treated
U.S. Universities to Increase Student Mobility
to a vast amount of information about
March 14, 2018, Scandic Paasi, Helsinki
Time to welcome new U.S. Fulbright
The seminar is open to the public and free
Finnish Fulbrighters Getting Ready for the U.S. Pre-Departure Orientation for the
Finland including a look at its history, education system and unique language.
The workshop aims to help Finnish uni-
Finnish 2018-2019 Fulbright Grantees
Fulbrighters will get to know each other,
versities in their efforts to establish well-
and Award Ceremony & Reception
the Fulbright Finland staff, and make
functioning partnership agreements with
May 16, 2018, Helsinki
important
U.S. universities to increase student and
connections
with
expert
speakers and alumni.
staff mobility between Finland and the
The Pre-Departure Orientation prepares
U.S. The program also explores how to
the new Finnish grantees for their Ful-
Interested in North American Studies?
attract U.S. students to Finland, and how
bright experience ahead. The program
The 14th Annual Fulbright North
to support the development of services
includes expert sessions on various prac-
American Studies Roundtable
available for U.S. students.
ticalities and discussions with Fulbright
February 2, 2018, U.S. Embassy Helsinki
Finland alumni. The day concludes at the Helsinki City Hall with an Award Cer-
The annual Fulbright North American
Education, Innovation, Science and Art: Fulbright Forum 2018
Studies Roundtable brings together pro-
March 15-16, 2018, University of
the City of Helsinki and the Ministry for
gram coordinators, lecturers, and profes-
Helsinki and Aalto University
Foreign Affairs, Department for Commu-
sors of North American Studies at Finnish
emony and Reception jointly hosted by
nications and Culture. The first seminar day focuses on Educa-
The Reception will also recognize the
enhance cooperation amongst the pro-
tion. The second day is multidisciplinary
North American Studies Maple Leaf &
grams, develop new initiatives to support
and includes a wide array of topics from
Eagle conference.
Maija Kettunen
universities to discuss concrete ways to
Fulbright Finland Alumna Sparks Dialogue to Promote Sense of Inclusion
from diverse backgrounds to network, to learn from each other and to share their expertise, ideas and best practices to pro-
Hanna-Miina Sihvonen, Senior Spe-
with the Fulbright Finland Foundation
cialist from the Ministry of the Interior,
and Professor Muqtedar Khan from the
The Fulbright Dialogue series contin-
attended a 6-week Study of the U.S. Insti-
University of Delaware. Professor Khan,
ues in December at the Ministry of Edu-
tute on U.S. National Security Policy
who teaches courses on Arab and Middle
cation and Culture with a focus on Future
making at the University of Delaware
Eastern Politics, Politics of Develop-
Needs and Prospects for Finnish-U.S.
in January 2017. While the program was
ment, Globalization, and Islam in World
Teacher and Administrator Exchanges.
short and intensive, the insights into var-
Affairs at the University of Delaware,
ious themes and professional networks
gave an introduction to the theme and
have already proven valuable.
shared his expertise on the mechanisms
mote a sense of inclusion.
Text: Mirka McIntire
In October, Sihvonen organized a Ful-
of radicalization and the sense of belong-
More information on the Fulbright Dialogue series:
bright Dialogue: Mechanisms of Radicaliza-
ing vs. non-belonging to the society. The
www.fulbright.fi/fi/palvelut-asiantuntijoille/fulbright-
tion and Sense of Inclusion in collaboration
Dialogue event brought together experts
dialogues-sarja
WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 21
FULBRIGHT FINLAND FOUNDATION / FULBRIGHT SUOMI -SÄÄTIÖ SR
Fulbright Finland Foundation The Fulbright Finland Foundation is an independent not-for-
a range of government, foundation, university and corporate
profit organization based in Helsinki, Finland. Its purpose is
partners on both sides of the Atlantic to design and manage
to promote a wider exchange of knowledge and professional
study and research scholarships, leadership development
talents through educational contacts between Finland
programs and internationalization services.
and the United States. The Foundation collaborates with
Appointment News from the Board Fulbright Finland welcomes Mr. Ethan Tabor, Assistant Public Affairs Officer at the American Embassy, and Mr. Itonde A. Kakoma, the head of region for Sub-Saharan Africa at the Crisis Management Initiative CMI on the Fulbright Finland Foundation Board of Directors. Ms. Jeanie Duwan has completed her board service. Fulbright Finland conveys to Ms. Duwan a sincere thank you for her dedi-
2016 – 2019
cated service. The Finnish board members are appointed by the Ministry of Education and Culture, and the American members by the U.S. Ambassador to Finland.
Fulbright Suomi -säätiö numeroina 2017 Tilastot ovat tilikaudelta 1.10.2016–30.9.2017
Alumnit •• Yhdysvalloissa noin 600 Fulbright Suomi -säätiön amerikkalaista alumnia mukana Friends of Fulbright Finland -verkostossa •• Sadat alumnit Suomessa ja USA:ssa toimivat asiantuntijoina, tieteenalakohtaisina arvioijina ja valintalautakuntien jäseninä, johtokunnan jäseninä
Asiakastilastot •• Asiakaskontakteja ja tapahtumaosallistujia lähes 6 500, joista yli 1 500 Fulbright Speaker
sekä muissa Fulbright Suomi -säätiön tehtävissä •• ASLA-Fulbright Alumni -yhdistyksessä yhteensä 140 jäsentä
Program -tapahtumien osallistujia. Kaikista osallistujista koulutuksen ja kansainvälistymisen ammattilaisia n. 26 % •• 64 tapahtumaa Suomessa: infotilaisuudet, seminaarit, konferenssit ja Fulbright Speaker Program -tapahtumat •• Verkkosivu: 226 500 sivun katselua ja 69 400 käyttäjää
Vuoden 2017 kohokohtia •• Toiminnan säätiöittäminen: Fulbright Suomi -säätiö sr aloittaa virallisesti toimintansa Suomessa •• Alumni Bengt Holmströmille taloustieteiden Nobelpalkinto •• Jean Jordanille ensimmäinen Friends of Fulbright Finland (FoFF) Alumni Enrichment Award
Stipendiohjelmat •• Yhteensä 91 stipendiaattia, joista 48 suomalaista ja 43 yhdysvaltalaista •• Yhteisstipendit mukaan lukien jaettu yli 1,42 miljoonaa euroa apurahoina
•• Friends of Fulbright Finland (FoFF) -alumniverkoston Centennial Ambassadors -projekti osaksi virallista Suomi100-ohjelmaa. •• Opintomatka Alaskaan: Towards Sustainable Arctic Futures •• Yhdysvaltain satavuotislahja Suomelle: USA:n
Perusrahoitus (Perusrahoitus ilman yhteistyöstipendejä) •• 72 % Suomesta (Tukisäätiö, opetus- ja kulttuuriministeriö, yksityiset säätiöt, suomalaiset
kongressilta puoli miljoonaa dollaria Fulbright Suomi -säätiölle. •• Suomen ja Yhdysvaltojen Fulbright-sopimuksen 65-vuotisjuhlavuosi.
korkeakoulut, muut) •• 28 % Yhdysvalloista (20 % USA:n ulkoministeriön allokaatio, 8 % muut)
22 — WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI
Fulbright Finland serves as the national EducationUSA center in Finland.
FULBRIGHT FINLAND FOUNDATION / FULBRIGHT SUOMI -SÄÄTIÖ SR
Fulbright Finland Foundation Board of Directors Honorary Chair: Ambassador of the United States to Finland Finnish Members: Dr. Piia Björn Professor of Special Education University of Eastern Finland Vice-Chair Dr. Heikki Ruskoaho Professor of Pharmacology and Drug Development University of Helsinki Dr. Matti Kokkala Professor
Dr. Hannu Seristö Vice President for External Relations Aalto University American Members: Mr. T.J. Grubisha Counselor for Press and Cultural Affairs American Embassy Chair Mr. Itonde A. Kakoma Head of the Region for the Sub-Saharan Africa Crisis Management Initiative
Mr. Ethan Tabor Assistant Public Affairs Officer American Embassy Mr. David Yoken Senior Music Lecturer Arts Academy, Turku University of Applied Sciences Ex-officio: Ms. Terhi Mölsä Chief Executive Officer Fulbright Finland Foundation
Fulbright Finland Foundation Office Ms. Pia Arola Johdon assistentti Executive Assistant p. (044) 5535 278 •• Toimistohallinto Ms. Emilia Holopainen Ohjelmakoordinaattori Program Coordinator p. (044) 7035 284 •• Inter-Country-stipendit •• Undergraduate-stipendit suomalaisille •• Sosiaalinen media ja verkkopalvelut •• Friends of Fulbright Finland -verkosto Ms. Emmi Jelekäinen Ohjelmakoordinaattori Program Coordinator p. (044) 5535 275 •• Tutkija-, luennoitsija- ja asiantuntijastipendit amerikkalaisille •• Tutkija- ja luennoitsijastipendit suomalaisille
Ms. Maija Kettunen Viestintä- ja tapahtuma koordinaattori Communication and Events Coordinator p. (044) 5535 277 •• Sosiaalinen media ja verkkopalvelut •• Visuaalinen viestintä •• Tapahtumat •• Fulbright Finland News •• Fulbright Speaker -ohjelma Ms. Karoliina Kokko Vastaava ohjelmapäällikkö Senior Program Manager (grant program oversight) p. (044) 5535 268 •• Maisteri- ja tohtorivaiheen stipendit •• Neuvonta opiskelusta USA:ssa •• Alumnikoordinaattori Ms. Johanna Lahti (opintovapaalla/on study leave)
Ms. Suzanne Louis Projektikonsultti (osa-aikainen) Project Consultant (part-time) •• Friends of Fulbright Finland -verkosto •• Alumnikoordinaattori •• Fulbright Finland News Ms. Mirka McIntire Ohjelmapäällikkö, Koulutus- ja opettajavaihto (osa-aikainen) Manager, Teacher Exchange and Education Programs (part-time) p. (044) 5535 269 •• Opettajaohjelma •• Study of the U.S. Institutes for Scholars and Secondary School Educators •• Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders from Europe •• Asiantuntijastipendit •• Seminaarit ja koulutustapahtumat Ms. Terhi Mölsä Toimitusjohtaja Chief Executive Officer p. (050) 570 5498
Office: (044) 5535 286, e-mails: firstname.lastname@fulbright.fi
Fulbright Suomi -säätiön toimintaa tukee Suomen ja Yhdysvaltain Stipenditoiminnan Tukisäätiö. Tukisäätiön hallitus: The Finland-America Educational Trust Fund, Board of Directors: Finnish members:
American members:
Agent / Säätiön asiamies:
Mr. Jouni Mölsä Director General of Communications Department for Communications and Culture Ministry for Foreign Affairs Chair
Ms. Donna Welton Chargé d’Affaires American Embassy Vice-Chair
Ms. Terhi Mölsä Chief Executive Officer Fulbright Finland Foundation
Ms. Jaana Palojärvi Head of International Relations Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture
Mr. T.J. Grubisha Counselor for Press and Cultural Affairs American Embassy
The Finnish members are appointed by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The American members are appointed by the American Embassy.
WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI — 23
Fulbright Finland Hakaniemenranta 6 FI-00530 HELSINKI FINLAND
marraskuu 2017
10. 11. FoFF Reception at the Finnish Ambassador’s Residence, Washington, D.C.
16. 11. Fulbright Suomi -säätiö Minimessuilla
6. 12. Independence Day Finland 100 years
11. 12. Hakuaika tutkijaohjelmiin lukuvuodelle 2018–2019 päättyy
20. 12. Fulbright Finland Foundation Board meeting
25. 12 - 29. 12. Fulbright Suomi -säätiö suljettu
joulukuu
13. - 17. 11. International Education Week
21. 11. 30th Anniversary of the Fulbright Finland Foundation and the University of Eastern Finland Collaboration
23. – 24. 11. Thanksgiving & Enrichment program for American grantees
11. 12. Fulbright Dialogue on Future Needs and Prospects for Finnish-U.S. Teacher and Administrator Exchanges
14. 12. The FinlandAmerica Educational Trust Fund Board Meeting
30. 11. Fulbright Bicentennial Chair in American Studies -professorin virkaanastujaisluento
joulukuu
Happy Holidays!
tammikuu 2018
maaliskuu
toukokuu
25. - 26. 1. ORIENTATION for the American grantees arriving in spring
2. 2. North American Studies Roundtable
helmikuu
14. 3. Fulbright CapacityBuilding Workshop on Establishing Partnership Agreements with U.S. Universities to Increase Student Mobility
15. - 16. 3. Fulbright Forum 2018 on Education, Innovation, Science and Art, University of Helsinki and Aalto University
16. - 18. 5. Fulbright Finland at Maple Leaf and Eagle Conference
16. 5. ORIENTAATIO: Suomalaisten stipendiaattien lähtöorientaatio ja stipendien julkistamis tilaisuus
Stipendiohjelmien uudet hakutiedot julkistetaan helmikuussa
Finland’s Centennial December 6, 2017