YEARBOOK 2015 WITH ANNUAL REPORT 2014
THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION NORGE-AMERIKA FORENINGEN SINCE 1919
Samspill er vårt fortrinn Vi fortsetter å skape verdier og levere på våre forpliktelser! 45 års samlet verdiskaping fra Ekofisk-området beløper seg til formidable 2080 milliarder kroner. Nå har vi investert i nye plattformer og nye brønner – og verdiskapingen vil fortsette i flere tiår. Vi ser framover – og nordover. Vi har ambisjoner om å vokse på norsk sokkel og fortsatt være en nøkkelspiller. Det er ikke bare hva vi gjør. Det er hvordan vi gjør det.
conocophillips.no
MISSION: THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION (NORAM) WORKS TO STRENGTHEN THE TIES BETWEEN NORWAY AND NORTH AMERICA THROUGH HIGHER EDUCATION AND CULTURE. NORAM’S GOAL IS TO PROVIDE FUNDING TO GIVE NORWEGIANS AND AMERICANS THE OPPORTUNITY TO STUDY OR PURSUE RESEARCH IN NORTH AMERICA AND NORWAY, AND TO BE A PART OF AN EXTENSIVE NORWEGIAN-AMERICAN NETWORK
Contributors to the Annual Report Hanne K. Aaberg Liv Elin Hjelmeland Maria Vang Ormhaug Mari Strømsvåg NORAM students with stories and photos Contact us/Publisher Rådhusgaten 23B 0158 Oslo, Norway +47 23 35 71 60 info@noram.no Org. nr: NO 940 469 643 Twitter: @NorgeAmerika Facebook: www.facebook.com/ NorwayAmericaAssociation Instagram: norgeamerikaforeningen Graphic design: Munch design Printing: PJ-trykk Cover photo: Shutterstock/ Songquan Deng (main photo), from the top, iStock / © littleny, Marius Tuft Mathisen, iStock / © gregobagel
NORAM SCHOLARSHIPS
NORAM IN 2014
Honor Roll of Patrons 5 Who we are and what we do 8 Key Figures of NORAM 9 Bachelor: College in the U.S. 10 Master/PhD: Scholarship from NORAM 12 Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Fellowship 15 American students: Study in Norway 16 Other Scholarships and Work Opportunities in the U.S. 19 Alf and Bergljot Kolflat Fund 21
Scholarship recipient overview 2014 Reports from the field 2014 Report: Urban planning in New York and Oslo Annual Report 2014 Financial Statement 2014
24 29 34 37 41
This is Ferd Ferd is a privately owned Norwegian industrial and financial group. We manage our active long-term ownership of Norwegian companies with international potential, and we carry out financial activities through investments in a broad range of asset classes.
BUSINESS AREAS: • • • • • •
www.ferd.no Ferd – Strandveien 50, P.O. Box 34, 1324 Lysaker Tel: +47 6710 8000 Fax: +47 6710 8002
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NORAM Yearbook 2015
Ferd Ferd Ferd Ferd Ferd Ferd
Capital Invest Hedge Fund Special Investments Real Estate Social Entrepreneurs
THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION HONOR ROLL OF PATRONS The Norway-America Association is grateful to the individuals, corporations, and foundations that have generously supported our work in the past year. Thank you for your support!
LEIF HØEGH STIFTELSE HALVORSEN FAMILY FOUNDATION AWILHELMSEN CONOCOPHILLIPS
NIMROD HOLDING AS
DNV GL
ANTHON B NILSEN
FERD
AKER PHILADELPHIA SHIPYARD
OBOS PARETO
THE PER AND ASTRID HEIDENREICH FAMILY FOUNDATION
BDO
HATHON EIENDOM
CAPPELEN HOLDING
HCA MELBYE
DNB
STRØMSTANGEN
FSN
PAWA INVEST
TGS NOPEC
BERGESENSTIFTELSEN
NORAM Yearbook 2015
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Photo: Sølve Sundsbø / Det kongelige hoff
Patron of the Norway–America Association His Majesty King Harald V
THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION
GREETINGS FROM THE PRESIDENT
Our 95th anniversary in 2014 was celebrated at our annual Scholarship Award Ceremony at The Nobel Institute on June 16th. This year we had the pleasure of sharing the celebration with 100 students and their parents, members, sponsors and friends of the organization. Kristin Skogen Lund, Director General of the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO), held the main speech and reminded us about the benefits of studies in the U.S., and gave her personal reflections of her own experience. I give my thanks to all of contributors and the guests for making this day unforgettable for NORAM. 2014 was an important year for the organization. By securing more long term funding from our important sponsors we can look forward to a predictable future for the Norway-America Association. We are proud and grateful for the backing of our supporters, whose names can be found on page 5. Their trust in our organization is important for our plans of modernizing and the role we play in helping students. In the fall of 2014, we launched a new website. NORAM’s website is the organization’s most important marketing tool, and is important for how we help students every day. In late 2014, we also started to update our database system. We will continue this process throughout the summer and hope to complete it by fall 2015 we will specifically focus on the alumni database, and making the organization more effective and sustainable in the long term. After 29 years of Lånekassen not supporting the first year of bachelor in the U.S., the Norwegian government finally agreed in the national budget proposal for 2015 to provide funding for the first year. Allowing students to have a free choice of school is a big step, and NORAM is thrilled about the government’s decision. The change is in effect from fall 2015. The Norway-America Association would not have been such a healthy and strong organization without the help of the board, the scholarship commit-
Liv Elin Hjelmeland President of the Norway-America Association
tee, and the administration. I would like to thank you all for the tremendous work, effort and dedication that you have for this organization Dear students – we wish you all the best. We hope that you make the most of your time abroad. Come back and be a better person with all of your valuable experience, and support organizations such as NORAM when you can. Together, more students will have a chance to study in the U.S., and we hope that you will be a part of the tradition to become a member of NORAM as our alumni.
For the Norway-America Association
Liv Elin Hjelmeland President of the Norway-America Association
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THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION
WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO
Norway-America Association
We have scholarships ȲȲ Scholarships for Norwegian students’ master, PhD and post-doc studies in the U.S. ȲȲ Scholarships for American students to study in Norway ȲȲ Partnership with American universities for bachelor scholarships ȲȲ Scholarships for various academic and practical stays in the U.S.
We can help with: ȲȲ Guidance and information about studying in the U.S. ȲȲ Information for visas for training and intern programs
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NORAM Yearbook 2015
NORAM has since 1919 worked on providing and facilitating scholarships and have helped thousands of students with scholarships and information about studies. Since 1954 NORAM has worked to promote both U.S. and Canada as educational destinations. Scholarships are awarded annually from several funds and endowments that NORAM administrates. We also work with organizations in the U.S., such as the American-Scandinavian Foundation and Thanks to Scandinavia, and we help administrate applications for their scholarships and grants. The association is a non-profit organization founded in 1919 by the American-Scandinavian Foundation and Norwegians Worldwide. The two organizations wanted to create a foundation that would support and encourage educational exchange between Norway and the U.S. The Norway-America Association receives no public funding, and is financed by private members and sponsors.
Mission The Norway-America Association (NORAM) works to strengthen the ties between Norway and North America through higher education and culture. NORAM’s goal is to provide funding to give Norwegians and Americans the opportunity to study or pursue research in North America and Norway, and to be a part of an extensive Norwegian-American network. This way NORAM helps build competence, facilitate exchange, encourage international network and mutual understanding on both sides of the Atlantic.
KEY FIGURES 2014
SIXTYONE TOTAL RECIPIENTS 61 UNDERGRADUATE/BACHELOR STUDENTS 29 RECIPIENTS NORWEGIANS TO THE U.S. MASTER/PHD 27 RECIPIENTS NORWEGIANS TO THE U.S. ALF AND BERGLJOT KOLFLAT FUND FOR ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS 1 RECIPIENT NORWEGIAN TO THE U.S. AMBASSADOR ROBERT D. STUART JR. FELLOWSHIP 1 RECIPIENT NORWEGIAN TO THE U.S. 3 RECIPIENTS AMERICAN STUDENTS TO NORWAY
FIVE MILLION FOURTY-ONE THOUSAND AND NINETYFOUR TOTAL SCHOLARSHIP USD 840,183 NOK 5,041,094 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR NORWEGIAN STUDENTS: MASTER AND PHD USD 329,335 NOK 1,976,000 AVERAGE SCHOLARSHIP FOR NORWEGIAN STUDENTS: MASTER AND PHD USD 12,200 NOK 73,200 SCHOLARSHIPS FOR NORWEGIAN STUDENTS: UNDERGRADUATE USD 470,849 NOK 2,825,094 AVERAGE SCHOLARSHIP FOR NORWEGIAN STUDENTS: UNDERGRADUATE USD 16,200 NOK 97,400
ONE THOUSAND AND FOURTY HELP GIVEN BY NORAM AND COLLEGE COUNSELING E-MAILS 700 PHONE CALLS 280 INDIVIDUALLY BOOKED APPOINTMENTS 60
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SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR BACHELOR IN THE UNITED STATES
YOUR COLLEGE DREAM COMES TRUE WITH SCHOLARSHIP
NORAM works with selected universities in the U.S. that awards scholarships to Norwegian students. Students with general university admission certification (generell studiekompetanse) can apply to a university through NORAM’s simplified application with the help and guidance from NORAM. The application is both for scholarship and for the school, making it easier to apply to college. The same application can be sent to three of our partnerinstitutions free of charge. Find out where you want to go to college, and you can receive: ȲȲ Sophomore standing, finish college in three years ȲȲ Scholarship towards your tuition, ranging from $2,500 – $26,000 ȲȲ Waived application fees ȲȲ Exempted from language or college admissions tests (not all institutions)
NORAM PARTNER INSTITUTIONS ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ
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California Lutheran University, California Central Washington University, Washington Clark University, Massachusetts Concordia College, Minnesota Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida Luther College, Iowa Michigan Technology University, Michigan North Park University, Illinois Pacific Lutheran University, Washington
NORAM Yearbook 2015
ȲȲ Southern New Hampshire University, New Hampshire ȲȲ St. Olaf College, Minnesota ȲȲ SUNY Plattsburgh, New York ȲȲ University of St. Thomas, Minnesota Check our website www.noram.no for any changes, and application deadlines.
APPLICATION MADE EASY ȲȲ Complete the NORAM application ȲȲ Submit transcripts from high school and other higher education you have completed ȲȲ Two recommendations from teachers/professors and/or employers ȲȲ Copy of your passport (signature/data page) ȲȲ Preliminary Statement of Financial Support (from Lånekassen) ȲȲ Finally, send your application to NORAM Some schools require language tests (TOEFL/IELTS) or admissions tests such as the SAT/ACT, or they may require you to fill out additional information after submitting the application. Check our website noram.no for more information and to download the application.
BOOK A MEETING WITH US TO GET HELP Want help to choose a college or have questions about how you can apply? Book your meeting with NORAM today, and we can discuss your college future! We can help you find schools, either NORAM partner institutions or any of the 4000 schools to choose from in the U.S. We will give you tools to make the selection process easier, and help you get started on your application, all for free. The meetings can either be by phone or in our office, located in Oslo. Meetings can be booked at www.meetme.so/mstromsvag
Hiking, skiing and many other activities are a part of the college experience in the U.S. Photo, from left to right: Tarald Wærness on Mailbox Peak overlooking Mt. Rainier, WA. College Baseball at California Lutheran University College campuses in the U.S. are known for being beautiful, here at Southern New Hampshire University.
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SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR MASTER, PHD AND POST-DOC IN THE UNITED STATES
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OPPORTUNITIES IN THE U.S.
The Norway–America Association offers scholarships for Norwegian master, PhD and post-doc students to study and research in the United States. Some scholarships are awarded directly from NORAM, others are awarded by our partner organizations, such as American–Scandinavian Foundation and Thanks to Scandinavia. All applicants are automatically evaluated for all scholarships available. Scholarships are offered to Norwegian students/researchers to study in the U.S. to gain experience, strengthening competences, facilitate international exchange, encourage networking and increase understanding between the two countries. Between 25 and 35 scholarships are awarded annually, with amounts ranging from $2,000 to $20,000. The scholarships are intended to cover costs beyond what Lånekassen and other funding sources cover, and are awarded based on merit and need. Between 65 and 110 students apply every year, and the applications are thoroughly evaluated academically by NORAM’s Scholarship Committee and academic consultants. NORAM and our partner organizations award scholarships through several scholarship funds. Most of the awards are open to all students, some are geographically or academically constrained, and are awarded to certain students. Some of the specific requirements are (the list is non-exhaustive): ȲȲ MBA at one of U.S. top 20 business schools (DNB ASA Fund) ȲȲ University of Miami, in business, engineering, or natural sciences ȲȲ Northern California ȲȲ Natural sciences ȲȲ Finance/economics ȲȲ Engineering ȲȲ International Affairs ȲȲ Human Rights All applicants are automatically evaluated for all scholarships available.
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NORAM Yearbook 2015
TERMS OF THE AWARDS Deadline: Dec. 18th, for the following academic year. Check noram.no before starting the application process. Applicant ȲȲ Must be Norwegian citizen ȲȲ Must hold a bachelor degree or similar before the application deadline (or before the end of the year) ȲȲ Applicants who are on a 5-year track for a degree (law/civil engineers etc.) must complete at least three years of their program before the end of 2015 Degree/Program ȲȲ Applicants don’t have to be accepted to a program at the time of the deadline, but acceptance letter/ letter of invitation must be provided before the scholarship is awarded. ȲȲ Scholarships are for semester/academic year, exchange or full degree, master, PhD and Post-Doc ȲȲ Must attend a regionally accredited university in the U.S., online education is not funded Period, length of stay and award ȲȲ The scholarships follow academic year of Sept. 1st to June 30th, and are awarded for one year at a time ȲȲ Minimum stay in the U.S. is three months ȲȲ Maximum receive two awards through the program ȲȲ Applicants who have been awarded scholarship from the U.S.–Norway Fulbright Foundation or Norwegian Research Council for the same application period, will not be considered Application requirements ȲȲ Electronic application and application fee ȲȲ Project description ȲȲ Resume ȲȲ Budget ȲȲ Three recommendation letters ȲȲ Transcripts from all higher education attended ȲȲ Admission letter/Letter of Invitation (if already received/currently attending)
Left, from top to bottom: Kristian A. Rusten at Sather Gate at UC Berkeley. Dabao Sun Lu went truffel hunting in Oregon. Andreas Selvik is jumping in front of the Great Dome at the MIT campus. Above: Stian Hafstad directed a short film called “Getting In� as a student at Columbia University, here he is on the film set.
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brukes der logoe i farger.
4) Logo negativ Kan brukes der stå på Anthon B hovedfarge rød.
OUR SPONSORS
LEIF HØEGH STIFTELSE
HALVORSEN FAMILY FOUNDATION 2)
3)
THE PER AND ASTRID HEIDENREICH 4) FAMILY FOUNDATION
NIMROD HOLDING
PAWA INVEST
FELLOWSHIP
AMBASSADOR ROBERT D. STUART JR. FELLOWSHIP The Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship is awarded to young, politically active Norwegians under the age of 35 in order to spend a semester taking classes at the George Washington University and intern on Capitol Hill or in a think tank. The fellowship is rotated between the political parties of Norway, and each party nominates its own candidate. The fellows are then selected through a competitive process by the Secretary General of the Norway-America Association and the
Norwegian Atlantic Committee. The two organizations administer the fellowship, while the U.S. ambassador to Norway formally accepts the fellow. The fellowship is normally offered once a year, and a scholarship to cover costs of living in the U.S. is included. Fellows must be Norwegian citizens, with a demonstrated commitment and an interest in working in Norwegian politics, public administration or public service. The applicant must hold a bachelor degree and be sufficiently proficient in English to study and work in the U.S. Ambassador Stuart passed away on May 8th, 2014. He and his wife made a lasting contribution to future ties between the U.S. and Norway by establishing the fellowship. Please see noram.no for more information.
Pål Arne Davidsen together with the late Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. in November 2012.
Governing Mayor of Oslo, Stian Berger Røsland and Minister of Agriculture, Sylvi Listhaug, were among the Stuart alumni who gathered at Villa Otium in October 2014 to celebrate the Fellowship and to honor the late Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. From left: Hans Frode Asmyhr (2000), Jarle Skjørestad (1992), Anne Marie Aanerud (2015), Stian Berger Røsland (2004), Vidar Bjørnstad (1990), Lillan Løvenskiold Stuart (the late ambassador’s wife), Thor Kleppen Sættem (2010), Sylvi Listhaug (2005), Pål Arne Davidsen (2013) and Julie Christiansen (1995). Photocredit: American Embassy, 2014
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AMERICANS TO NORWAY
AMERICANS SHOULD STUDY IN THE WORLD’S BEST COUNTRY* The purpose of the scholarships is to provide financial support for Americans to study in Norway. By supporting post-graduate study or research in areas of mutual importance to Norway and the United States we hope to bring the two countries closer. By awarding scholarships to American students or researchers, knowledge and understanding will increase, and it will strengthen the ties of friendship between the two countries. Every year, we offer five to ten scholarships to American students, based on merit and need. The amounts vary from 10.000 NOK to 30.000 NOK. The size of the individual grants will depend on the research subject, purpose and the intended length of stay in Norway. Scholarship funds: the Norwegian Marshall Fund and the Thanksgiving Fund. For information about studying in Norway, see www.studyinnorway.no
Terms of the awards Deadline: Sept. 1, for the following academic year. Visit noram.no before starting the application process. Applicant ȲȲ Must be American citizen, planning to study/or currently studying in Norway ȲȲ Must have completed a bachelor degree before the application deadline Education ȲȲ Scholarships are only for graduate level studies, both exchange and whole degree in Norway. Online courses does not qualify ȲȲ The project description must be of academic merit, and the project must be feasible within the framework proposed ȲȲ Students can apply without being accepted to an institution before the application deadline, but must submit documentation of admission/invitation if awarded a scholarship ȲȲ The project/academic field must be of mutual benefit to the two countries
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NORAM Yearbook 2015
Period and length ȲȲ The scholarships are given within the academic year (September 1st – June 30th), and are awarded one year at a time. Keep in mind that one can only be awarded two times ȲȲ The program period has to be minimum 3 months ȲȲ Applicants who are awarded/have applied for funding from other sources for the same application period, must notify NORAM Application requirements ȲȲ Electronic application with application fee ȲȲ Updated resume/CV ȲȲ Personal statement ȲȲ Transcript from all universities attended ȲȲ Budget for the proposed scholarship period ȲȲ Two letters of recommendations ȲȲ Letter of admission/invitation to your host institution if already received
From the top: Turner Jacobs and friends took advantage of Norwegian nature and arranged several cabin trips Elizabeth Calkins from Portland, OR studied at University of Oslo Svalbard is a popular destination for American students Anna Gibson from Puyallup, WA studied agroecology at Hedmark University College
*According to UN’s Human Development Index, 2014
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Pareto er en uavhengig og ledende aktør i det nordiske markedet for finansielle Trondheim, London,
tjenester.
Selskapet
Kristiansand,
Aberdeen,
Paris,
har
kontorer
Stockholm, Rio
de
i
Malmø,
Janeiro,
Oslo,
Stavanger,
Helsingfors,
Singapore,
Perth,
Bergen,
København, New
York,
Houston, Los Angeles og Calgary. Pareto ble stiftet mot slutten av 1985 og har utviklet seg til å bli et konsern med et omfattende produktspekter. Konsernet har ca. 640 ansatte. Pareto tilbyr tjenester innenfor verdipapirmegling, rådgivning, aktivamegling, forvaltning, skipsmegling, forsikringsmegling, prosjektfinansiering og kreditt. Les mer på www.pareto.no
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NORWEGIANS TO THE U.S.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS AND WORK OPPORTUNITIES IN THE U.S.
The Norway-America Association administrates several other scholarships for stays in the U.S. Some scholarships are awarded directly from NORAM or other partner organizations, such as the AmericanScandinavian Foundations (ASF).
VISITING LECTURESHIPS Deadline: February 15th Amount: ȲȲ $20,000 teaching/research stipend ȲȲ $5000 travel stipend for lecture appearances outside of host institution in the U.S. ȲȲ J-1 visa sponsorship as a short-term scholar (up to 6 months) through the ASF Visitor Exchange Program Lectureships should be in the area of contemporary studies with an emphasis on one of five areas: Public Policy, Conflict Resolution, Environmental Studies, Multiculturalism or Healthcare Visit noram.no for application requirements. The American-Scandinavian Foundation invites U.S. colleges and universities to apply for funding to host a visiting lecturer from Norway or Sweden. The awards are granted for one semester, and should fall within an academic year. The competition is open to all American colleges and universities. The award is appropriate not just for Scandinavian studies departments, but for any department or inter-disciplinary program with an interest in incorporating a Scandinavian focus into its course offerings.
THE EXCHANGE VISITOR (J VISA): INTERNSHIP AND TRAINING An internship in the United States is a unique opportunity to gain professional experience, learn about Ameri can business techniques and build beneficial relationships. An internship will also enhance your resume and strengthen your appeal to future employers. The American-Scandinavian Foundation’s Internship & Training Program, designated by the U.S. Department of State, provides Scandinavian students and recent graduates with J-1 visa sponsorship which is necessary to pursue an internship in the United States. The ASF provides essential guidance through the J-1 visa application process. ASF ensures that you are qualified to receive a J-1 visa and then provide all of the necessary documents for your interview with the U.S. Embassy. ASF also provides continuous support throughout the program. Once you have secured an internship position in the United States, you may apply for visa sponsorship through ASF. You will need to complete our online application and your host firm will need to submit documents to ASF. When your application is approved, you will schedule and attend a visa interview at the U.S. embassy in Norway. The process takes approximately 6–8 weeks from the time you begin your application until you receive your J-1 intern visa. Visit noram.no for for more information and links to American-Scandinavian Foundation’s website for eligibility requirements.
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OBOSer medlemm r r me oppleve re! for mind
Fordeler hele livet – Som OBOS-medlem stiller du foran i køen den dagen du skal kjøpe egen bolig. Du får også en rekke fordeler alle de årene du ikke benytter deg av forkjøpsretten: • • •
Inntil 50 % rabatt på bolig- og kulturtilbud. Svært gode betingelser på lån, sparing og forsikring. Forkjøpsrett til ca. 80 000 nye og brukte OBOS-boliger.
BLI MEDLEM: www.obos.no eller send sms: OBOS til 2030.
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NORAM Yearbook 2015
ARCHITECTS AND ENGINEERS
ALF OG BERGLJOT KOLFLAT FUND
This scholarship fund was a generous gift to the Norway-America Association by Alf and Bergljot Kolflat from Wilmette in Illinois. The fund was created in 1976, and has since supported many engineers and architects for study tours to the U.S.. The scholarship is awarded to Norwegian engineers and architects with a minimum of three years of relevant work experience. It is not intended for regular academic work, but for practical orientation and to gain experience, and may be used for attending a specific course, conference, seminars, and independent or organized research tours. It may also be used on visits to industrial plants and companies. The scholarship will not be awarded retroactively, and the trip can’t start before the scholarship committee has concluded their evaluation.
FACTS Scholarship amount: Up to 30,000 NOK Number of awards: 1–2 per year Application deadline: April 1st or November 1st.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ ȲȲ
Application form and application fee Updated resume/CV Transcripts from all higher education Two letters of recommendation Copies of invitations to seminars etc (if applicable) Check noram.no for updates before starting the application process
Architect and urban planner Sissel Engblom received Alf and Bergljot Kolflat Award in 2014, and her study trip to New York influenced Asplan Viak’s proposal for the new Regjeringskvartalet in Oslo. Illustration: Asplan Viak
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NORAM SCHOLARSHIPS ••• Harry Elkins Widner Memorial Library, Harvard University Tarald Wærness, Pacific Lutheran University Karen Hübert, Columbia University University of St. Thomas, NORAM member university Tarald Wærness, Pacific Lutheran University Signe Moe, Stanford University
Hedvig Arnet, Columbia University Damir Avdagic, University of California, Los Angeles Trine Halvorsen, Georgetown University Martin Jullum, Stanford University North Park University, NORAM member university
NORAM IN 2014 •••
NORAM’S SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS 2014–2015
SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS OVERVIEW In 2014, the Norway-America Association awarded 61 scholarships amounting to USD 840,183 (NOK 5,041,094) through its scholarship programs.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR NORWEGIAN MASTER OR PHD STUDENTS IN THE UNITED STATES Each year, the Norway-America Association administrates up to 35 scholarships for graduate studies and research in the U.S. The program consists of scholarships and awards from different organizations and scholarships funds, and is administrated as one program by NORAM. In 2014–2015, 28 Norwegians received funding from NORAM, The American-Scandinavian Foundation and Thanks To Scandinavia, a total of USD 329,335 (NOK 1,976,000).
THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION AWARDS Simon Sobstad Bensnes, Tromsø Scholarship Fund: King Olav V Birthday Fund Award, NOK 22,800 and Ragnhild Marie Løkens Education Fund, NOK 31,200. Field: PhD in Economics at University of California, Santa Barbara Trine Halvorsen, Lørenskog Scholarship Fund: King Olav V Stipend, NOK 43,000. Field: LLM in Law at Georgetown University Signe Moe, Namsos Scholarship Fund: The Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Scholarship, NOK 31,000. Field: PhD level studies in Engineering at Stanford University Irina Eidsvold Tøien, Oslo Scholarship Fund: King Olav V Birthday Fund Award, NOK 46,800 and Franklin D. Roosevelt Minnefond, NOK 7,200. Field: PhD in Law at Columbia University
THE AMERICAN-SCANDINAVIAN FOUNDATION AWARDS Anders Johan Andreassen, Gausdal Scholarship Fund: Stolt-Nielsen Fund for Education, USD 18,000 and Haakon Styri Scholarship, USD 2,000 Field: PhD in Physics at Harvard University
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NORAM Yearbook 2015
Hedvig Arnet, Oslo Scholarship Fund: DNB ASA Fellowship Fund, USD 20,000. Field: MBA in Business Administration at Columbia University Damir Avdagic, Rena Scholarship Fund: King Olav V Fund, USD 13,000. Field: MFA in Fine Arts at The University of California, Los Angeles Anne Bitsch, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Pratt/Johnson Fellowship, USD 13,000. Field: PhD in Sociology at Columbia University Stian Hafstad, Førde Scholarship Fund: King Haakon VII Birthday Fund, USD 13,000. Field: MFA in Film at Columbia University
Marie Lilleborge, Fredrikstad Scholarship Fund: Norway House Foundation, USD 5,000. Field: PhD level studies in Mathematics at Stanford University Dabao Sun Lu, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Haakon Styri Scholarship, USD 19,000. Field: MA in Biology at Oregon State University Ola Rye Malm, Gjerstad Scholarship Fund: DNB ASA Fellowship Fund, USD 20,000. Field: MBA in Business Administration at Harvard University Marius Tuft Mathisen, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Andrew E. & G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 11,000. Field: PhD level studies in Business Administration at New York University
Line Hilt, Rådal Scholarship Fund: Andrew E. & G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 13,000. Field: Research Fellow in Multicultural education at University of California, Berkeley Ingrid Synneva Holtar, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Andrew E. & G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 9,000. Field: Master in Film Studies at Columbia University Camilla Houeland, Stavanger Scholarship Fund: Andrew E. & G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 13,000. Field: PhD level studies in Political Science at Columbia University Karen Grønseth Huebert, Stabekk Scholarship Fund: DNB ASA Fellowship Fund, USD 20,000. Field: MBA in Business Administration at Columbia University Martin Jullum, Halden Scholarship Fund: Norway House Foundation, USD 5,000. Field: PhD level studies in Mathematics at Stanford University Alexander Mekiassen Kolbu, Vestby Scholarship Fund: Andrew E. & G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 13,000. Field: Master level studies in Economics at Columbia University Thorleif Aass Kristiansen, Lier Scholarship Fund: Pratt/Johnson Fellowship, USD 6,000. Field: PhD level studies in History at Harvard University
•••
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Kristian Andersen Rusten, Bergen Scholarship Fund: Andrew E. & G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 13,000. Field: PhD level studies in Philosophy at University of California, Berkeley Andreas Løve Selvik, Nesodden Scholarship Fund: Andrew E. & G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 13,000. Field: Master level studies in Computer Science at MIT Ida Andrea Braathen Sognnaes, defer to fall 2016 Scholarship Fund: Norway House Foundation, USD 10,000. Field: PhD in Environmental Sciences at University of California, Berkeley
THANKS TO SCANDINAVIA Olga Abilova, Kolbotn Scholarship Fund: Nell and Herbert Singer Scholarship, Thanks to Scandinavia University Stipend, USD 7,000. Field: Master in International Affairs at Columbia University Pål Granum, Levanger Scholarship Fund: Inc’s Cash Grant, Thanks to Scandinavia University Stipend, USD 20,000. Field: MFA in Music at California Institute of Arts
AWARDS FOR AMERICANS TO NORWAY Eilif Solberg, Vennesla Scholarship Fund: Andrew E. & G. Norman Wigeland Fund, USD 9,000 and King Olav V Fund, USD 4,000. Field: Master in Statistics at Johns Hopkins University Jonas Tungodden, Bergen Scholarship Fund: Norway House Foundation, USD 10,000. Field: PhD in Economics at University of California, Berkeley
Every year NORAM supports up to ten Americans students, studying in Norway for their master or PhD. By awarding scholarships to American students or researchers, knowledge and understanding between Norway and the U.S. increases, strengthening the ties between the two countries. The awards vary from NOK 15,000 to NOK 30,000 and are awarded from the Thanksgiving Fund and the Norwegian Marshall Fund. In 2014–2015, three students were awarded a total of NOK 90,000 in scholarships. Elizabeth Calkins, Portland, OR Scholarship Fund: The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NOK 30,000. Field: Master in Comparative and International Education at University of Oslo Anna Gibson, Puyallup, WA Scholarship Fund: The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NOK 16,000 and The Thanksgiving Fund, NOK 14,000 Field: Master in Agroecology at Hedmark University College Turner Jacobs, Santa Ana, CA Scholarship Fund: The Norwegian Marshall Fund, NOK 30,000. Field: Master in International Affairs/ Relations at University of Oslo
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM FOR BACHELOR DEGREE IN THE UNITED STATES This program is for Norwegian students interested in studying at the undergraduate level in the US. Currently, 13 undergraduate colleges and universities offer scholarships to Norwegian students through this program. These scholarships are not cash grants, but are credited towards tuition, fees, and room and board – covering up to 80 % of total expenses. 29 students were awarded scholarships and admission through this program in 2014, at a total of USD 470,849 (NOK 2,825,094).
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MEMBER SCHOOLS 2014 ȲȲ California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, CA ȲȲ Central Washington University, Ellensburg, WA ȲȲ Clark University, Worchester, MA ȲȲ Concordia College, Moorhead, MN ȲȲ Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona Beach, FL ȲȲ Luther College, Decorah, IA ȲȲ Michigan Technology University, Houghton, MI ȲȲ North Park University, Chicago, IL ȲȲ Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WA ȲȲ Southern New Hampshire University, Manchester, NH ȲȲ St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN ȲȲ State University of New York (SUNY) Plattsburgh, NY ȲȲ University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN
Maren Kristine Skedsmo Siri Svendsen Kim Thon Rebekka Marcelia Vik Joachim Welstad Clark University, Worchester, MA Kristin Navestad Gundersen Dina Hoee Rollheim Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, FL Magnus Andrew Torsteinsrud-Smith Luther College, Decorah, IA Frøydis Rønneberg Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WA Ingeborg Jore Hilde Marie Kjørsvik Tarald Willumsen Wærness University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, MN Juan-Erik Gabrielsen
AWARDED SCHOLARSHIP AND ACCEPTED TO UNIVERSITY ALF AND BERGLJOT KOLFLAT AWARD California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, CA Kabir Amrik Singh Ahluwalia Martin Bentzon Hannah Elisabeth Berget Elizabet Fosen Brown Lise-Marie Ålesve Frydenberg Martin Haugen Granlien Felix Hart Kjersti Strøm Hauge Camilla Johannessen Melina Gundersen Lapidus Amalie Melsom Mahyar Mirzazadeh Annica Norrie Moe Hannah Eriksen Mehlum Ellinor Molvik Haga Rundhovde Eric Andreas Helsem Schaumburg
The scholarship is awarded to Norwegian engineers and architects, for visits to the United States. Up to two scholarships are awarded every year, with amounts up to NOK 30 000. Sissel Ellinor Tønnesen Engblom, Oslo Scholarship Fund: Alf and Bergljot Kolflat Fund, NOK 30,000. Field: Independent research of architecture/urban planning in New York
AMBASSADOR ROBERT D. STUART JR. FELLOWSHIP The goal of the Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship is to enable emerging Norwegian political and governmental leaders to engage in a semester of study and practical experience in Washington, D.C. This opportunity enables the recipient to become acquainted first-hand with American society and institutions in a way which will later benefit mutual understanding and bilateral relations between the United States and Norway. One award is given each year, and candidates are chosen from each political party on a rotating basis. Mona Wærnes, Namsos Sosialistisk Venstreparti (SV) Scholarship Fund: Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship, USD 20,000. Visiting Scholar at George Washington University and internship at Capitol Hill
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Olga Abilova worked as a research consultant for United Nations’ mission for peacekeeping and stabilization in the Democratic Republic of the Congo as part of her degree at Columbia. Marius Tuft Mathisen took advantage of his time in the U.S. and travelled a lot. Here by the sea in Maine. Eilif Solberg at Johns Hopkins University for his PhD in statistics. Anders Johan Andreassen recommends students to take advantage of the social aspect of studying in the U.S. as well. Living and studying in New York is great according to Karen Hübert, and you have to see the important sights like the Brooklyn Bridge, even though you’re not a tourist. Joining the rowing team while studying at Harvard University is one of Anders Johan Andreassen’s best memories Signe Moe worked on underwater vehicles at Stanford University Finger Lakes is a region in upstate New York and is great for hiking, which Marius Tuft Mathisen got to experience.
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REPORTS FROM THE FIELD Research shows that experience in other countries makes a person more flexible, creative and a more complex thinker. Study and research abroad is often a person’s first academic experience in a different country, where perspectives and beliefs are changed or reinforced. NORAM is proud to enable students and researchers to get this experience through scholarships and college advising. Every year we ask our students to reflect on their time in Norway or the U.S. and send us a report about their time, their studies and how they experienced a new country. We hope that you will enjoy their reports from the field, as much as we do.
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AGROECOLOGY
PHYSICS
ANNA GIBSON
ANDERS JOHAN ANDREASSEN
Scholarship The Norwegian Marshall Fund and The Thanksgiving Fund Field & level Agroecology, Master University Hedmark University College
Scholarship Stolt-Nielsen Fund for Education and Haakon Styri Scholarship, ASF Field & level Physics, PhD University Harvard University, Massachusetts
When I walked into the international department at SeaTac airport I was filled with both excitement and nervousness. Questions on how I would fit in, what my research will be about, what I would do for fun, and if I could handle not having a Starbucks around every corner. I started thinking about the struggle of trying to fit in with this new school in a new country, language, and culture. I was expecting a large hurdle of connecting with my classmates in social situations and making friends at my new school. A few nights before the first day of classes I went and hung out with some of the bachelor students. Nervously, I walked in and was greeted by many warm smiles. Even with the language difference I quickly became welcomed into the school and the Blæstad community which has made the transition to Norway much easier. With this degree, I want to use my passion for education and agriculture and work as a consultant for sustainable agriculture practices. I would love to offer advice, support, and solutions to livestock farmers to ensure that their farm is running efficiently, profitable and sustainable. My goal is to publish my findings both in agriculture journals in Norway but also in the U.S. I plan on staying connected to my contacts in the U.S and share my findings in addition to Norway’s dairy farming practices to the dairy students, dairy farmers, and dairy producers’ cooperatives.
I remember that Harvard seemed so impossibly far away when I was a student in Norway. I do not remember what gave me the crazy idea of applying in the first place, but it was definitely the best decision I have ever made. If you also have what seems like a crazy dream of studying abroad at one of the best schools in America, I can without hesitation say that you should go for it. It might not be as unachievable as you think, especially with organizations like NORAM supporting you. Coming to Harvard, I had high expectations about the quality of the study program with its coursework and research, but I did not know what to expect about the social aspect of life at Harvard and maintaining a work-life balance. Looking back at it now, I must say that the work experience has been everything I hoped and dreamed about, and the social aspect has been even better. The diverse student population in Cambridge creates a great platform to meet interesting people from all around the world, and today my closest friends come from India, New Zealand, China, France, Canada and America, just to name a few. The Americans truly live up to the stereotype of being open and friendly, and making friends is never a problem. For other students going to study abroad, I have one advice: Do not spend all of your time studying in the library, instead, I would strongly recommend joining a sports team or engage in some other activity. It will give you another dimension to life in America than what you will find in the classrooms, and I can promise that you will make lifelong friendships.
NORAM Yearbook 2015
CHEMISTRY
ECONOMICS
FRØYDIS RØNNEBERG
SIMON BENSNES
Scholarship Undergraduate Scholarship Program Field & level Chemistry, Undergraduate University Luther College, Iowa
Scholarship King Olav V Birthday Fund and Ragnhild Marie Løkens Education Fund Field & level Economics, PhD University University of California Santa Barbara, California
For being a college of about 2,500 students, the amount of activities going on at campus at any given time is beyond expectation. Everything from yoga, ballroom dancing, rugby, ultimate frisbee, archery, canoeing, and more can be found here. A small place like Decorah don’t have all that a big city can offer, but that doesn’t mean that we are spending all our time bored in the library or shooting things outside. However it is actually fun to learn to shoot with a bow and arrow though, especially when you get to carve out a pumpkin for Halloween this way. I have one tip, and one tip only, to prospective students that want to study abroad and it is this: do not choose a college or university just because it is well-known or you friends go there. Choose the college based on what you want and need from your education and that you feel will give you the most. I wanted a small, but still academically good, college in a small town surrounded by nature, and guess what? I haven’t regretted my choice once.
I left Norway and The Norwegian University of Science and Technology to spend a year as a visiting graduate student at University of California Santa Barbara. I had two bags, jet lag and no idea I would soon fall in love with my new hometown. Santa Barbara offers an ideal climate all year round. As my landlord so elegantly put it when I commented on the never-ending blue skies and constant 75-degree air: “You have found the Shangri-la of weather.” Truer words have never been spoken. In addition to providing a beautiful environmental setting, Santa Barbara is also where the UCSB is located. Here I have had the opportunity to present my research to receive invaluable feedback from some of the leading figures in my field. I have listened to excellent researchers present groundbreaking evidence in both my own and related areas of research. Sharing and discussing ideas and concepts with my fellow students have facilitated energetic brainstorming and discussions, planting the seeds for future research. Taking part in an active environment that expands the frontier of today’s knowledge has supplied me with a renewed, and daresay, lasting motivation for my own work. If there was something I did not foresee, it was how large an impact my stay here would have on the development of my own skills and motivation. I have already seen some of the fruits from my stay both in professional and personal terms, and I am sure there is more to come. I am forever grateful for the experiences I have had due to the support I received from NORAM. It would not be possible without you.
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BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
KAREN HÜBERT
OLGA ABILOVA
Scholarship DNB ASA Fellowship Fund, ASF Field & level Business Administration, MBA University Columbia University, New York
Scholarship Nell and Herbert Singer Scholarship, TTS University Stipend Field & level International Affairs, Master University Columbia University, New York
These two years have been the most challenging and most rewarding years of my life. Columbia Business School’s slogan is “At the very center of …”, and then they complete it with words like business, community, culture, people and so on – and it’s all true. New York has everything, and I have done my best to utilize it. In my opinion, the best reason to study in the U.S. is that you get virtually everything here. You get to be part of an invincible international network; in my class we are students from 40 nations, from all continents. The U.S. appeals to everyone from everywhere. You get access to some of the world’s best researchers, you are exposed to all different industries, and the most well-known and important organizations. The MBA program has also offered opportunities outside the classroom; this year I have led a program called Harlem Tutorial Program, where MBA students tutor middle school kids in Harlem four times a week. Studying abroad, and in the U.S. in particular, offers so many options to develop and shape the education and experience you want. This possibility to create your own path is something I have embraced. The comprehensive process of applying to a U.S. university is deterrent and may exhaust you – but I promise you; it’s worth it!
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One of the main reasons I wanted to come to the United States to do my master’s degree, was its number of dynamic public policy schools – offering a cross-disciplinary approach to conflict studies and development with an emphasis on developing practical skills. A large part of the reason for why I chose to come to SIPA at Columbia University, was its commitment to shaping its students into global activists and policy-makers with a solid understanding of the local forces on the ground. One of the mandatory building blocks of the SIPA- degree – is a 10-week long placement in an organization or company of your interest, often located abroad. Last year, I had a rewarding experience working as a research consultant for the United Nations’ mission for peacekeeping and stabilization in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. During the summer, I was able to travel to eastern DRC to pursue fieldwork in a region that has been torn by war and ethnic conflict for decades, largely a consequence of the horrific genocide in Rwanda in 1994.
LAW
PRE-LAW AND MUSIC PRODUCTION
TRINE HALVORSEN
KIM THON
Scholarship King Olav V Stipend Field & level Law, LLW University Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.
Scholarship Undergraduate Scholarship Program Field & level Pre-Law and Music Production, Undergraduate University California Lutheran University, California
To be frank, my expectations when I came to the U.S. were rather low. I was tired of the exhausting application process, complicated paper work, the huge financial expenses, and I was having second thoughts of what I actually had gotten myself into. After months of sweat, tears, even more paper work and even more money gone, I couldn’t be happier about getting myself into this immense journey. American law school is not a walk in the park. After many years of studying law I thought I was well prepared. But the enormous work amount hit me by surprise. The level of student class participation is much higher than in Europe. For every class you are expected to contribute to the lecture. The professors won’t let you sit and hide, but demand that you participate. When you are at a top university like Georgetown, you will meet top people from all over the world. You simply have to step it up a level to keep up with the others. It has been both a privilege and a challenge having excellent peers as competitors and colleagues. One of the main reasons why I chose Georgetown was because of its localization. D.C. is in many ways also the world’s capital, and most of the biggest international organizations are found here. The second semester I got an internship in the World Bank. I work as a legal intern two days a week, and the other days I study. This is a unique experience I am extremely grateful for. NORAM helped me get here, and I cannot thank them enough for it.
I had never been to the U.S. before I moved for college, and my expectations were through the roof. I had only seen the country through movies and pictures, and that did not make my expectations any lower. I was hoping to get the American college-experience that we have seen in so many movies and TV-shows, and CLU has so far met all of my expectations. I’m studying prelaw and music production here at CLU, and I’m dreaming about making it in the music industry. I’ve already been in contact with a record label within the first 6 months I’ve been here, so I have a lot more opportunities here than I would have had in Norway! The first thing you should decide before you choose your college is if you want a big or a small one. A small college will have more intimate classes where the teacher are able to help individuals in class, while the bigger schools will have classes with 400–500 students. A small school won’t give you the “college-experience” you see on TV, but it is what you make it to be.
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ARCHITECTURE / URBAN PLANNING
NEW YORK CITY INSPIRED A PROPOSAL FOR THE NEW REGJERINGSKVARTALET IN OSLO
“what is a city?” is a question I often get from journalists interested in my take on today’s rapid growing cities in Norway. I usually answer that a city is not made up of buildings, but people. Furthermore a city is where people and cultures meet and evolve. The key to making an attractive city is not how fancy the buildings are, but how well the spaces between the buildings are, and for whom they are planned. Norway has evolved a lot in the 200 years since the creation of its constitution; being a rural agri cultural nation in 1814 to become one of the world`s most urban nations with over 80 % of its population living in urban areas. Norwegians say they prefer life in the country, nature being a vital part of their identity, but statistics show that they choose to live in and around cities. Oslo is the fastest growing capital in Europe and as of last year the demography development has pointed out a new direction; a youth wave is changing the capitol. This is the first generation since the war where young people are staying in Oslo to settle with families instead of heading out to the car based lifestyle of the suburbs. The next generation prefers to not drive cars, but uses bikes and travel by public transportation. This new reality is having a tremendous impact on the way we need to plan cities: homes, neighborhoods, playgrounds, workplaces, infrastructure and public spaces need to cater for how people will live their everyday life in the city. According to global trend researchers it is not Paris, Berlin or London that are the trendsetting cities for this new generation. For the Western Hemisphere it is New York, and for the Eastern Hemisphere it is Tokyo. So my quest was to find out what is happening in New York right now and what can Oslo learn. In 2014 I was fortunate enough to be granted the Alf and Bergljot Kolflat Fund through NORAM to execute my trip to New York City. The aim of the visit
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Asplan Viak wants to create the Government Gardens of Norway. It will be a gift to the people, an icon for democracy and an including meeting place in an otherwise grey city center. The Garden is suggested to be a green oasis with a variety of flowers and plants, with a lot of sitting areas. Illustration: Asplan Viak
“Don’t make the same mistake that they did at Ground Zero”. PPS was one of consultants that worked with the memorial park and tried to get the authorities to plan the area more for the active lives of people in the area instead of a place primarily for grieving. Photo: Sissel Engblom.
was to study the recent transformation of the public urban spaces in Manhattan. Over the last decade streets, squares, docks and parks have gradually been transformed from grey, polluted and unsafe urban spaces to green and clean places bustling with people eating, playing, reading, walking and cycling. Can Norwegian cities learn from the New York model? This was what I was set on finding out. Thanks to NORAM I not only found my answers, but was also able to apply this knowledge on one of the most important urban planning schemes in Norway of our time. The first thing that struck me when I came to New York for the first time in 10 years, was how green the streets and squares had become as a result of the municipalities scheme to plant a minimum of 1000
reading from the portable library, and even children’s birthday parties filling the area with toys and laughter. When I wrote my application for the scholarship I stated that I would try to make some new connections in New York in my field of work with urban planning, learn how to make urbanization attractive and sustainable. Little did I know that this was going to happen already upon my return to Oslo. Only weeks after returning from New York I was chosen with my team of interdisciplinary experts at Asplan Viak and PPS, by the Norwegian Government to make one of the six urban scheme proposals for the new Government Headquarters in Oslo. This area known as Regjerings kvartalet, was destroyed by a terror bomb July 22nd in 2011, killing eight people and many more at Utøya.
trees a year. This has given the city cleaner air and more pleasant streets, and the modest trees make you feel spatially protected, so you somehow forget the skyscrapers that dominate the air space. New York City prides itself in being a bike friendly city so I decided to test the hypothesis, and pedaled my way around the city. It was fascinating to be able to experience all the contrasts in the city by bike in one day. The new public spaces and cycling in the city were the main topics for my study trip, so it was a great pleasure for me to be able to get a meeting with the firm in NY that has worked with most of these projects: PPS – Project Public Space. PPS has worked with the development of strategic urban spaces like Ground Zero, Bryant Park and Times Square. Their focus is how people use the spaces, and they work with social analysis and concepts before the landscape architects and city planners start designing the areas. I was fascinated to hear them tell me about how they transformed Bryant Park from a drug addict zone to a beautiful and popular space filled with city people of all kinds doing yoga, playing chess,
The trip to New York and my meeting with PPS became the foundation for our proposal. Instead of focusing on pompous buildings or sky-scrapers in the small scale of Oslo to represent our countries democracy, we chose to design a garden; a gift for the people. Our proposal is called The Government Gardens of Norway. It will be up to the Norwegian prime minister and the Norwegian people if they are ready for this in Oslo when the proposal is announced this spring and exhibited in May. I wish to thank NORAM and the Kolflats for giving me the opportunity to learn the lessons of the New York public space model and being able to implement this to such an important project in the heart of the capitol of Norway, and the heart of its people.
Sissel Tønnesen Engblom Senior Architect Department of urbanism, Asplan Viak Oslo Recipient of Alf and Bergljot Kolflat Award, 2014
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OUR SPONSORS
ANNUAL REPORT
ANNUAL REPORT 2014 Two big tasks, modernizing and professionalizing, occupied The Norway–America Association’s work during 2014. The aim was to simplify our procedures while putting more into our counseling function. Having managed to merge 11 different scholarship foundations into one, NORAM forged a new investment strategy and outsourced the management of the funds. Thanks to our new website launched in October 2014, NORAM is now better able to provide information about studies in North America and our scholarship programs. This step helped us to optimize our communication and reach out to more students. In 2014 NORAM and our partners in international education celebrated the reversal of a thirty year policy of not supporting freshman year in the U.S. Close to 200 schools were included on the new list that the Norwegian government would support, and it was seen widely as a turning point for educational funding. In the Norwegian state budget for 2015, the Ministry of Education proposed to open up freshman year funding to all regional accredited schools in the U.S., a development NORAM is very pleased with. The role of reliable college counselor and advising center is becoming more important, and the organization is continually developing and expanding the scope of these services. NORAM also met with the Canadian ambassador at the time, David Sproule, and other embassy employees to confirm our commitment to education in Canada. We helped author a report setting out the growing potential for student exchanges between Norway and Canada. The Norway–America Association turned 95 years in 2014. We marked the event with a historic timeline in the 2014 Annual Yearbook and at the Annual Meeting and Award Ceremony. The organization is already preparing for the Centennial in 2019, and we are looking forward to celebrating this organization with its rich history and culture.
MISSION The Norway–America Association’s mission is to strengthen ties between Norway and North America through educational and cultural exchange. We work to fulfill this goal through our 10 scholarship programs, cooperation with 13 undergraduate schools, in addition
to our role in administrating many scholarships from other institutions in the U.S. and Norway, as well as offering unbiased college counseling and advice. NORAM shares both Executive Director and office space with Norwegians Worldwide (NWW), a nonprofit organization that works to strengthen cultural and personal ties between Norway and Norwegians abroad. NORAM also works closely with the American-Scandinavian Foundation (ASF), Thanks to Scandinavia, Inc, the Stuart Family Foundation, the American and Canadian Embassies in Oslo, the U.S.–Norway Fulbright Foundation, ANSA, the Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Education (SIU), the American College of Norway, the American Chamber of Commerce, the Research Council of Norway, and others. NORAM often visits American and Norwegian universities, student groups and high schools to inform them about study opportunities in the U.S., as well as our own scholarship programs.
SCHOLARSHIPS In 2014, the Norway-America Association awarded 61 scholarships amounting to NOK 5 , 041 , 094 through scholarship programs. Interest in studying or researching in North America is growing, and we are not able to support all qualified applicants. Detailed financial statements, as well as lists of scholarship recipients and amounts, can be found in this yearbook. The table on the next page provides a quick overview of the scholarships awarded in 2014. Ambassador Robert D. Stuart, Jr. Fellowship The Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship was founded by the late ambassador Stuart, who passed away on May 8th 2014. In October, former fellows of the program, Norwegian politicians, NORAM and the Norwegian Atlantic Committee honored Stuart for his dedication to strengthening U.S.-Norwegian relations and his generosity in funding this fellowship. His widow Lillan Løvenskiold Stuart attended the celebration, which was generously hosted by the U.S. Embassy at Villa Otium, the ambassador’s residence.
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••• SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED THROUGH NORAM’S PROGRAMS IN 2014 Norwegians to the U.S. Number of scholarship Scholarship Amount (NOK) recipients/trainees Undergraduate scholarship from schools 29 2,825,094 Awards for Graduate Studies and Research in the U.S. 27 1,976,000 The Norway-America Association Awards 4 182,000 American-Scandinavian Foundation Awards (ASF) 21 1,632,000 Thanks to Scandinavia 2 162,000 Alf and Bergljot Kolflat Award for Architects and Engineers 1 30,000 Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship: Award for Norwegian Politicians to the U.S 1 120,000 Professional Development Award (ASF) * — Awards for Norwegian Teachers to the U.S. ** — Americans to Norway: Norwegian Marshall Fund/ Norwegian Thanksgiving Fund American Civilization Lecturing Fund Total:
3 90,000 * — 61 5,041,094
* No applicant were awarded ** Program was cancelled in 2013 and 2014. The program will be evaluated in 2015
FINANCIAL SUPPORT NORAM receives no public funding. To cover the operating costs of the Association, we depend on our sponsors and members. We are very grateful for their generous support. It motivates the organization to know that our sponsors believe in the importance of what we are doing and what we can accomplish, with study options in the U.S. constantly expanding. NORAM’s role as education advisor is more important than ever before. Many students are dependent on NORAM’s guidance and financial support throughout their academic career. As American higher education costs soar, and as Lånekassen does not cover all the costs, students are finding it increasingly difficult to pursue their dream of studying in the U.S. The scholarships that NORAM provides for graduate programs (master, PhD and research programs), as well as those that NORAM has negotiated with our membership schools at the bachelor level are increasingly valuable.
ACTIVITIES The Norway–America Association manages 10 different scholarship programs/funds, and cooperates with other organizations to facilitate scholarships and a trainee/internship program. NORAM plays an important role as an information center for anyone interested in studying in North America. We offer accurate, unbi-
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ased, comprehensive and timely information about educational institutions in the United States and Canada. We also give guidance to students, parents, guardians, high school advisers, and others on how best to access those opportunities. Through seminars, school visits and fairs, NORAM reaches a wide audience in Norway. Daily, the Association receives requests by e-mail, telephone, and in person from individuals interested in studies in the U.S. and Canada. During 2014 NORAM responded to: ȲȲ E-mails: approximately 700 ȲȲ Phone calls: approximately 280 ȲȲ Individual appointments (booked): 60 We also attended or arranged around 20 seminars, fairs and open nights in 2014. Roughly 1100 students received information about NORAM and the programs that we offer through these events. Educational Fairs NORAM was again present at the “Ta Utdanning” college fair in Lillestrøm, the largest educational fair in Norway. We were also a part of the planning committee for another fair held at Oslo Handelsgymnasium, called “College Day Scandinavia”. Together with the College Council, U.S. Embassy, ANSA, Fulbright, Education USA and Ivy Plus, the fair was a great success. There were several presentations, workshops
and a fair with representation from 30 American universities for students to meet. NORAM also helped plan another fair organized by Studievalg.no. About 20 schools were present at this fair, and 160 eager students got quality information about how to apply, scholarship opportunities and tips on how to write a college essay. NORAM was also invited to present at the Research Council of Norway’s annual Scholarship Day, this year in Kristiansand. Seminars NORAM is a sought-after partner for seminars on study opportunities in the U.S., aimed at various audiences including high school students, graduate students, school advisers, and parents. Our presentations provide overviews of the U.S. education system, the best strategies for applying to graduate schools in the U.S., and information on sport scholarships, as well as our own scholarship programs. NORAM often partners with Fulbright, ANSA and Education USA at these seminars. At a seminar for high school counselors, NORAM gave a presentation on scholarships and tips on where to find more information about studies in the U.S., as well as offering to help the counselors. Visits from U.S. Universities NORAM is a natural point of contact for U.S. university representatives visiting Norway. During 2014, several representatives from members of the NORAM Undergraduate Scholarship program visited our offices, as well as representatives from universities that are not affiliated with our program. We are always interested in expanding our undergraduate school portfolio, and learning about new schools. Travel NORAM’s mission states that the organization should have a nationwide scope, and in 2014 we fulfilled this by completing several outreach programs. NORAM participated at a seminar organized by the Norwegian Research Council in Kristiansand, encouraging researchers, professors and PhD students to study abroad, and NORAM presented its scholarship opportunities. NORAM also co-organized a three-day trip to Northern Norway in November 2014. Funded by the the U.S. Embassy, NORAM, ANSA and embassy officials visited three high schools, one university college, one Norwegian folk high school (folkehøyskole), one university and one military base in Harstad, Narvik, Bardufoss and Tromsø. A lot of NORAM’s advising efforts are centered on bachelor education and NORAM’s partner schools. In 2014, California Lutheran University invited NORAM to a college counselor seminar. NORAM also visited the American-Scandinavian Foundation in New York, as well as three partner schools, SUNY Plattsburgh, Pacific Lutheran University and Lewis and
Clark College, an informative and useful effort on behalf of the Undergraduate Scholarship Program. U.S.–Norway Task Force for Educational Exchange The Norway-America Association continues to work with its partners to increase academic exchange between Norway and North America. Throughout 2014, the Association participated actively in the U.S.–Norway Task Force, together with the U.S. Embassy, the U.S.–Norway Fulbright Foundation, the Norwegian Centre for International Cooperation in Higher Education (SIU), the Association of Norwegian Students Abroad (ANSA), the American Chamber of Commerce, American Field Service (ASF), Youth for Understanding (YFU) and the American College of Norway.
EVENTS The Annual Meeting The Association held its Annual Meeting at the offices of Formuesforvaltning on June 16th, 2014. An account of NORAM’s activities over the past year was presented by the president, including the positive result from the financial statement. The board members who were up for election were reelected. The Award Ceremony (Stipenddagen) was held at the Norwegian Nobel Institute on June 16, 2014. The event was attended by more than 20 of the scholarship recipients, and about 100 guests. Former NORAM scholarship recipient Kristin Skogen Lund, now Director General of the Confederation of Norwegian Enterprise (NHO), gave her personal take on higher education and the benefit of studying in the U.S. She talked about her time in Oregon for her bachelor degree and how that had shaped her experience and career. Eirik Torsvoll, a returning NORAM scholarship recipient, spoke about his student experience and looking at Norway from abroad. The annual meeting included musical entertainment by Trygve Rypestøl and Stian Andreas Andersen, a jazz duo from the Norwegian Academy of Music (NMH). The event was a great success and we rounded off the celebration of 95 years with a large cake. Prior to the Annual Meeting and the award ceremony, a departure seminar was offered for the undergraduate scholarship recipients, to help them prepare for the coming years and college life. 10 students joined this seminar, which was held at NORAM’s offices. 4th of July NORAM and Norwegians Worldwide were invited to the 4th of July celebration hosted by the U.S. embassy at Villa Otium. The event is attended by important contacts for both organizations and opens new opportunities for fruitful cooperation.
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American Coordinating Council of Norway (ACCN) – 4th of July in Frognerparken ACCN hosts a 4th of July celebration in Frognerparken every year, which is open to the public. In 2014 both NORAM and Norwegians Worldwide attended by having a stand at the event to spread information about the organizations, and to be a part of the American community in Norway.
Scholarship Programs (100 %). Maria Vang Ormhaug continues her position as NORAM’s Sponsor Contact, sharing her time between NORAM (40 %) and Norwegians Worldwide (60 %). The Association’s accountant is Jørgen Gvein from OpusCapita. Jon-Even Seegaard has helped NORAM and Norwegians Worldwide since January 2014 and the organization had volunteer help from intern Elizabeth Calkins in the spring.
U.S. soccer party NORAM and Norwegians Worldwide hosted a viewing party of the soccer match between USA and Germany during the World Cup in June. The organizations invited young people in their network to promote both organizations, education in the U.S. and to expand our American and European networks.
Work environment We enjoy a good working environment in our organization, with little sick leave. Our activities are not detrimental to the environment. There is no discrimination in our organization. NORAM offers work placement for candidates in job rehabilitation programs.
Traditional Christmas get-together: In December, NORAM invited its scholarship recipients, members of the Association, Board Members, and other friends, to our traditional “Julegløgg.” Guests enjoyed traditional mulled wine (gløgg) and cookies in our office overlooking Akershus Castle and the Oslo harbor. The event is hosted together with Norwegians Worldwide.
A WORD OF THANKS
STAFF AND WORK ENVIRONMENT NORAM maintained a permanent staff of three (two part time and one full time, equaling 1.6 FTE) throughout the year. Hanne K. Aaberg’s position as Executive Director is split between the Norway–America Association (20 %) and Norwegians Worldwide (80 %). Mari Strømsvåg maintained her position as Director of
Our high activity level would not be possible without contributions from our faithful and valuable sponsors. We are deeply grateful for each of these generous gifts, as well as the support from our corporate and individual members and our cooperating partners. We would also like to thank our Scholarship Committee, consisting of top academics and specialists from a number of fields, for their invaluable contribution to The Norway–America Association. The evaluation of the applicants involves a lot of hard work, tough decisions and dedication to NORAM’s mission to promote educational exchange between Norway and the U.S. The input and evaluation from experts in the applicant’s field is also of great value, and we would like to thank them as well.
OSLO, APRIL 2015
Liv Elin Hjelmeland, president
Halgrim Thon
Vibeke Steineger
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NORAM Yearbook 2015
Berit L. Henriksen
Peder Chr. Løvenskiold
Jarl Ulvin
Helmer Aslaksen
Inger E. Prebensen
Hanne K. Aaberg, Executive Director
FINANCIAL STATEMENT
FINANCIAL STATEMENT 2014 THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION ORG. NR: NO 940 469 643
IN NOK Income Membership Sponsors Miscellanous income Total income Expenses Administrative costs Office expenses Salary Total expenses
NORGE-AMERIKA STIFTELSEN ORG. NR: NO 977 130 972
2014
2013
34,696 1,070,216 674,074 1,778,986
73,350 1,106,504 439,055 1,618,909
520,000 645,903 491,974 1,657,877
520,000 366,235 659,226 1,545,461
121,109
73,448
Balance, December 31 Assets Capital (bank accounts, bonds and mutual funds) Total assets
2,073,460 2,073,460
1,831,412 1,831,412
Liabilities and capital Equity Current liabilities Total Equity and Debts
1,867,710 205,750 2,073,460
1,757,964 73,448 1,831,412
Profit
THE BOARDS The Norway-America Association Board Liv Elin Hjelmeland (chairman), Berit L. Henriksen, Jarl Ulvin, Peder Chr. Løvenskiold, Vibeke Steineger, Helmer Aslaksen, Halgrim Thon, Inger E. Prebensen Norge-Amerika Stiftelsen Board Peder Chr. Løvenskiold (chairman), Halgrim Thon, Stig S. Kvendseth, Hanne K. Aaberg
2014 1,145,146 510,071 302,000 333,075
2013 1,603,845 405,523 235,000 963,322
Balance, December 31 Assets Capital (bank accounts, bonds and mutual funds) Total assets
24,909,061 24,909,061
24,470,006 24,470,006
Liabilities and capital Equity Current liabilities Total Equity and Debts
24,603,082 305,979 24,909,061
24,270,006 200,000 24,470,006
IN NOK Income Expenses Scholarships Profit
THE AMERICA-NORWAY HERITAGE FUND ORG. NR: NO 979 486 375
2014 73,878 22,050 51,828
2013 61,674 12,730 48,944
Balance, December 31 Assets Capital (bank accounts, bonds and mutual funds) Total assets
2,498,088 2,498,088
2,429,964 2,429,964
Liabilities and capital Equity Current liabilities Total Equity and Debts
2,481,792 16,296 2,498,088
2,381,021 48,944 2,429,965
IN NOK Income Expenses Profit
The America-Norway Heritage Fund Peder Chr. Løvenskiold (chairman), Halgrim Thon, Stig S. Kvendseth, Hanne K. Aaberg
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AUDITOR’S REPORT 2014
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NORAM Yearbook 2015
OVERVIEW OF THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION
THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION 2014–2015
PATRON
STAFF
H.M. King Harald V
Hanne K. Aaberg, Executive Director Mari Strømsvåg, Director of Scholarship Programs Maria Vang Ormhaug, Sponsor Contact
HONORARY MEMBERS Ragnhild Galtung Arne Wilhelmsen
AUDITOR Bente Wilhelmsen, Registered Public Accountant
BOARD COOPERATING ORGANIZATIONS Liv Elin Hjelmeland, President and Chair Berit L. Henriksen Peder Chr. Løvenskiold Vibeke Steineger Halgrim Thon Jarl Ulvin Helmer Aslaksen Erik Giercksky (ex officio until June 2014) Inger E. Prebensen (ex officio from June 2014)
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE Helmer Aslaksen, Chair Øystein Noreng Oddbjørn Knutsen (until fall 2014) Reidun Sirevåg Sigrid Brevik Wangsness (until fall 2014) Julie Christiansen Liv Duesund (from spring 2015) Marit Bakke (from spring 2015)
ȲȲ American Chamber of Commerce in Norway (AMSCAN) ȲȲ ANSA – Association of Norwegian Students Abroad ȲȲ Canadian Norwegian Business Association (CNBA) ȲȲ Denmark-America Foundation – Danmark-Amerika Fondet ȲȲ Embassy of Canada to Norway ȲȲ Embassy of United States Oslo, Norway ȲȲ Icelandic-American Society – Íslensk-Ameríska Félagið ȲȲ League of Finnish-American Societies – Suomi-Amerikka Yhdistysten Liitto r.y. ȲȲ Sweden-America Foundation – Sverige-Amerika Stiftelsen ȲȲ Thanks To Scandinavia, Inc. ȲȲ The American-Scandinavian Foundation ȲȲ The Nansen Fund, Inc. ȲȲ U.S.- Norway Fulbright Foundation
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DONORS AND MEMBERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Your support helps the Norway-America Association achieve its mission to strengthen the ties between Norway and North America through higher education and cultural exchange. NORAM supports hundreds of students every year through our scholarship programs for undergraduate, graduate, PhD and researchers. We advise students about their academic and scholarship opportunities. Join NORAM today, and we can help even more students.
BECOME A MEMBER/ RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP Studentmember: NOK 200 Member: NOK 300 Please make your contribution payable to our bank account: 7878 05 23025 Be sure to include your full name and address.
Rådhusgaten 23 B, 0158 Oslo, Norway Telephone: +47 23 35 71 60 Email: info@noram.no / www.noram.no
BECOME A SPONSOR NOK 10,000–250,000 We are always looking for new sponsors to support our organization. If your company wants to be a part of our sponsor team, please contact NORAM at info@noram.no or by phone + 47 23 35 71 60 Your support makes a difference.
THE NORWAY-AMERICA ASSOCIATION NORGE-AMERIKA FORENINGEN SINCE 1919