Message from

Message from Bruce Karstadt, ASI President & CEO

We are happy to be welcoming people back to the American Swedish Institute. We are so pleased to see both long-standing friends as well as a remarkable number of first-time visitors, all of whom are eager to view our stunning new exhibit, Papier, and lunch at FIKA or browse the store. These days underscore how much we have missed everyone — from volunteers and co-workers to members, students, shoppers and diners. As we look ahead, ASI will be influenced by what we have experienced and how we changed and adapted this past year. I’m confident ASI will serve the community even better because of many learned insights and sensitivities. Twelve months ago, the word “zoom” only meant to me the acceleration power of a friend’s Tesla. Today, through this and other technology, accessibility to our offerings has greatly expanded. We have always had a national membership from coast to coast, and now they can easily partake of our offerings. We’re grateful to amazing friends here and abroad who have gladly adapted to these virtual spaces and shared their art, craft and knowledge with us. Sessions like these will continue even after health conditions allow us to begin onsite programs. Connecting to the outdoors is an essential part of Nordic life. We took that a bit further last year with several outdoor classes and our first open-air exhibition, Swedish Dads. My colleagues continue to design new educational experiences to take place in the fresh air in the spirit of friluftsliv. Our creative approach to tradition with “DriveThru Lutfisk” last year was such a great success that we will offer a take-home crayfish (kräftor) dinner in August. FIKA café has also rolled out “FIKA Marketplace” for carry-out orders of their exquisite Swedish meatballs, breads and other favorites. Behind the scenes, we’ve refreshed our ASI branding, which is reflected in this issue’s new look and an upcoming relaunch of our website. We have also understood more deeply the societal role that we can play as a museum serving more inclusive and diverse communities. This commitment will infuse our work, including a recently established Community Fund to support local agencies serving those in need. In a 1991 Posten column, I wrote about the Spanish concept of “querencia,” or a special place that provides a sense of belonging and continuity. At the beginning of my tenure here I felt this at ASI, and I feel it even more today as we serve an even broader community in that spirit. We can do this thanks to the support of our members, donors and volunteers — and inspired leadership of a deeply invested Board and dedicated staff. Your generosity makes possible a deep impact upon our community. Tack och vi ses! Thank you. We hope to see you soon, whether here in person or online!

Bruce Karstadt, ASI President & CEO