The Season of Celebration and Thanks

True to the vision set out nearly 100 years ago, ASI has remained a place for all to seek out connection, delight in moments of celebration, and build a shared community. To Linnea and Matthew Feig, the American Swedish Institute is more than a museum and cultural center, it is a cherished place where they come to feel inspired and connected to their past, present, and future.

For over 20 years, Linnea has been a loyal visitor, member, and supporter of ASI. As a young child she first visited the Turnblad Mansion with her mother, Mary Londborg, who has long been part of the ASI Spelmanslag group. As a teenager, Linnea took part in ASI’s yearly holiday traditions when she sang in the girls' choir and appeared as

Lucia in the Lucia Day Parade in 1999 — a photo of her arriving at the celebration on horseback (left) was featured in the Star Tribune that year. As an adult ASI has continued to be a special place for her and her now husband, Matthew. Earlier this year, they selected ASI as the perfect backdrop for their engagement photos, not only for the picturesque elegance of the Mansion, but for Linnea, “it was a place near and dear to my heart." For the two of them, ASI continues to be a cherished piece in their life. While the campus and activities in 2022 may look and feel different from the ASI Linnea first knew, she and her husband look forward to remaining part of the community and celebrating all that ASI is today.

This summer, just before their wedding, they attended ASI’s Iraqi Swedish Cultural Exchange event and joined the group in dancing, honoring traditions from around the globe.

“I've come to recognize how special ASI is to the Twin Cities community and how unique it is in the country — a home for Swedish-Americans (both new and old) to celebrate our culture and traditions, share our heritage with others, and enjoy beauty and the arts. I love how ASI brings together my interests in Swedish heritage and the cultural experiences of newcomers of all backgrounds.” —Linnea

Londborg Feig

As we reflect on another year gone by, we are thankful to all who come to ASI either for the first time, or as long-time members. No matter the occasion or reason for your visit, whether it be a language class, or to celebrate one of life’s greatest moments with us, your support creates meaningful, long-lasting opportunities for ASI to connect with and serve our unique community.

This holiday season, we invite you to consider a gift to the American Swedish Institute. Your support ensures that ASI remains a gathering place for all people for generations to come. Please visit asimn.org/support to make a gift.