Årbok 2020

n i y d u t S ! A S U e th The Norway-America Association – since 1919

Yearbook 2021 with Annual Report from 2020

Ane Louise Toft Rud (NORAM), Nicholas Favero (American College of Norway) and Mari Strømsvåg (US Embassy Oslo/EducationUSA) at the TaUtdanning fair in Bergen, January 2020

Total recipients:

KEY FIGURES

2020

2 **

* Norges Bank currency August 3rd 2020, 1 USD = 9,14 NOK

Norwegian Master/PhD students to the U.S.

Norwegian Bachelor students to the U.S.

American Master/PhD students to Norway

** In addition, 11 undergrad students were admitted to partner schools but chose to cancel or defer because of the Covid-19 pandemic

Scholarships for Norwegians:

Total scholarships:

3 8 2 6 80 0 No r we g ia n kro ne rs

418 6 87

USD

Master/PhD students 343 337 USD 3 138 100 NOK

Bachelor students 55 000 USD 502 700 NOK

Publisher/Contact us: Rådhusgaten 23B, 0158 Oslo, Norway || +47 23 35 71 60 || info@noram.no || Org. nr.: NO 939 616 233 Editors/Contributors: Hanne K. Aaberg, Ane Louise Toft Rud, Kristina Haarberg and NORAM students with all their stories and photos. Twitter: @NorgeAmerika || Facebook: www.facebook.com/NORAMscholarships || Instagram: NORAMscholarships Graphic design: Moloko – det lille designbyrået || Printing: In-trykk || Cover photo: Haakon Husøy – MA, International Affairs; Columbia University 2021

The Norway-America Association has enjoyed royal patronage since 1919, through three generations. In 2020, NORAM was granted a renewed patronage by H.M. King Harald V.

His Majesty King Harald V - The Norway-America Association royal patron. Photo by: Jørgen Gomnæs/The Royal Court

This is NORAM The Norway-America Association (NORAM) is a non-profit membership association whose purpose is to strengthen the bonds between Norway and North America. The Association is open to anyone interested in transatlantic cooperation through academic and cultural exchange. NORAM HAS THREE TARGET GROUPS:

• Scholarships for Norwegian student’s master, PhD, and post-doc in the U.S.

• Those who wish to learn (students, pupils, members, and partners)

• Scholarships for American students to study in Norway

• Those who teach (universities and colleges in Norway and North America)

• Partnership with American universities for bachelor scholarships

• Those who want to facilitate learning (authorities, members, alumni, and partners)

• Scholarships for various academic and practical stays in the U.S.

NORAM offers free counseling to students who want to study in the USA or Norway and is a resource for high school counselors. Through its activities, NORAM strengthens competence and international exchange and promotes networking and mutual understanding on both sides of the Atlantic. OUR SCHOLARSHIPS NORAM’s scholarships are funded through the Norway- America Foundation and NORAM’s American partners A merican Scandinavian Foundation and Thanks to Scandinavia. NORAM also administers other scholarships, such as the America-Norway Heritage Fund and the Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship.

WE CAN HELP WITH • Advising and information about studying in the U.S and Canada. • Information about visas for training and intern programs

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

A highly unusual year The pandemic has taught us many things. Most of us have experienced how surprisingly much we can accomplish from a home office with a computer and stable internet access. We have also seen how international research collaboration is crucial for solving global challenges. A worldwide cooperation effort developed vaccines in record time, demonstrating how much we can achieve when we work together. In NORAM we believe more strongly than ever that our mission of promoting academic exchange is crucial. The coronavirus pandemic has affected the world profoundly and continues to do so. Parts of the student exchange program came to a halt, as many of NORAM’s scholarship recipients chose to postpone their studies until the autumn of 2021. Nevertheless, there is still significant interest in studying in North America and Norway. Our scholarship recipients are highly qualified, and we have more applicants than available scholarships. In our Yearbook 2021, you can read accounts from Haakon, Eliana, Elise, and Joanne Michelle, providing some insight into what our students have experienced this year. In December, the Norwegian government presented White Paper No. 7 (2020–21): «A world of opportunities – International student mobility within higher education.» The report expresses high ambitions for student exchange in the coming years. We support this wholeheartedly – NORAM’s work will undoubtedly contribute significantly toward achieving these goals.

Scholarships for bachelor studies in the United States

College in the U.S. can be very expensive, but NORAM has made it easier for you. By working with selected universities in the U.S. we can offer you a simpler way to admission and scholarship opportunities, so you can study where you want! Apply with NORAM’s application for both admission and scholarships at our partner schools. Find out where you want to go to college, and you can receive: • Sophomore standing, finish college in three years instead of four • Scholarship towards your tuition, ranging from $2 500 - $26 000 • Waived application fees • Exemption from English proficiency or college admissions test

NORAM partner institutions

NORAM is currently working with the following colleges and universities 1. California Lutheran University, California 2. Central Washington University, Washington 3. Clark University, Massachusettes 4. Concordia College, Minnesota 5. Hawaii Pacific University, Hawaii

6. North Park University, Illinois 7. Pacific Lutheran University, Washington 8. St. Olaf College, Minnesota 9. SUNY Plattsburgh, New York 10. University of St. Thomas, Minnesota

9 3

8 6

We wish our scholarship recipients the best of luck this year, and we would also like to thank all NORAM’s supporters in 2020! Hanne K. Aaberg Secretary General

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

Check our website www.noram.no for application deadlines and school updates

theNORWEGIAN american

Opinion

Diplomacy • 6-7 Opinion • 8-9 Sports • 10-11 Business • 12-13 Features • 14 Norway Near You • 15 Research & Science •

19 Books • 20 Grieg Notes • 21 Barneblad • 22-23 Taste of Norway • 24 Bulletin Board • F1-4 Focus on Film

d is 745 miles s note. e with us is a of our secuwith NATO,” rank Bakkes and has no . ove. Norway , British, and s access to a of Tromsø. n prime minO’s secretary once-secret mountain and anticipating me. But with need has arisRussian subs Gap,” a pasola peninsula

Greenpeace as “playing als’ lives, and

rtive position r Sweden, to se in military en since the ic Sea island long had a , there is curor a “NATO pidly join the government

e 1980s, the carrier in the several other ne in the Bar-

on in Washected to alter

ng history of Arctic region, ue,” the new d Austin said aring. wever, about n the region in the Arctic . ll. In March n called for be bolstered creation and structure” by

An opinion column about current issues in Norway and the United States

Join the conversation!

We must revitalize our relationship with the United States Peder Chr. LøvenskioLd

Chair, Norway-America Association

The attack on Capitol Hill in January shows the United States is at a crossroads after the years with Donald Trump at the helm. At the same time, the pandemic has intensified a trend in which fewer Norwegians choose to get educated in the United States—our most important ally and trading partner outside of Europe. Even though the bonds between Norway and America are strong, it is important to nurture our cooperation. We can do this by encouraging more young Norwegians to study in the United States. The storming of Congress bears witness to a divided United States. The country is divided along party lines—and many describe their political opponents as “immoral.” This is happening while a whole generation with personal experience of the war and Norwegian emigration to America is slowly disappearing. New generations of Americans do not have the same closeness to and affection for Norway and Europe. For young Norwegians, Australia or South America is as exciting as the United States, the promised land of earlier generations. An increasing number of English-language study programs in countries that previously did not have such offers means more competition for students. But the United States is not Australia. The United States is Norway’s most important trading partner outside Europe and our strongest NATO ally. According to statistics from the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund, the number of Norwegian exchange students to the United States dropped by half between the academic years 2014–2015 and 2019–2020. We know that this is partly related to the unfavorable exchange rate—and currently the pandemic—but it is also due to the fact that young Norwegians no lon-

Photo: Norway-America Association Peder Chr. Løvenskiold is the chair of the Norway-America Association and a strong proponent of international educational exchange.

ger have the same close bonds to the United States as before. The Norwegian government highlights these challenges in it its report (white paper) to the Storting called “A World of Opportunities,” where the Minister of Education encourages more students to study in Bavaria and fewer in Brisbane. It is positive that the government is taking the challenge seriously, but we must encourage more people to take an active part in supporting our traditionally strong relationship to the United States. This is why I and several others are deeply involved in strengthening these bonds—including through supporting the NorwayAmerica Association (NORAM). We want to revitalize our relations with the United States, to make the country come as alive

to young Norwegians as it was to me when I traveled to the United States to study and later work as a young man. My wish for 2021 is to be part of a movement that inspires affection and enthusiasm for the United States among young Norwegians. This is one of NORAM’s missions, and every year we award around 40 exchange scholarships to Norwegians and Americans. Financial support is essential if our students are going abroad to study and learn, but most important of all, it is NORAM’s task to generate enthusiasm for the country that has given us Thoreau, Pollack, Kerouac, Seinfeld, and Beyoncé—not just technological innovations from Silicon Valley or vaccines from Pfizer. The attack on Capitol Hill shows that times are changing in the United States. Norwegians must understand these changes and the complex undercurrents that move through American society and affect how Americans think and act. Norway is a small country, and we cannot expect Americans to take an interest in us without reciprocating. Let us, therefore, work together to ensure that the Capitol Hill insurrection does not become the defining American moment for young Norwegians. Let them be immersed in campus life, road trips, the Ivy League, and the Norwegian-American universities, such as St. Olaf College, Concordia College, and Pacific Lutheran University. The experience of studying in the United States is of great value to the individual. Even more importantly, student exchanges between Norway and the United States strengthen connections between Norway and our most important ally. I both hope and believe that we, as a nation, can maintain a wider historical perspective and that the students of the future will not be deterred by the events of recent weeks—the United States still holds a magnificent promise of educational opportunities.

The opinions expressed by opinion writers featured in “On the Edge” are not necessarily those of The Norwegian American, and our publication of those views is not an endorsement of them. Comments, suggestions, and complaints about the opinions expressed by the paper’s editorials should be directed to the editor.

< VACCINES

the processes that may end prepared two vaccination scenarios, which with the approval of the German Curevac vac- must be updated regularly: one more sober cine, for which Norway has an agreement of and one more optimistic. Vold said the latest vaccine news is in line with the optiaround 2 million doses for 2021. NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020 5 Other vaccines are also being consid- mistic scenario. “If everything goes smoothly and the ered by the EU, including Novavax and vaccines being considered are approved, pro-

Facsimile of “The Norwegian American: North America’s oldest and only Norwegian the EU has started newspaper”. This op-ed was first published in Norwegian on Nettavisen.no.

From page 3

840,000 of the extra vaccine doses may arrive as early as April, May, and June. Norway has an agreement to receive

Scholarships for Master and PhD in the United States The Norway-America Association offers scholarships for Norwegian master and PhD students to study and research in the United States. Some scholarships are awarded directly from NORAM, others are awarded by our partner organizations American-Scandinavian Foundation and Thanks to Scandinavia. All applicants are automatically evaluated for all scholarships available. Scholarships are offered to Norwegians students/researchers to study in the U.S. to gain experience, strengthen 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 50 and 80 students apply every year, and the applications are thoroughly evaluated academically by NORAMs Scholarship Committee and academic consultants.

Photo by Kristina Haarberg

Scholarships for Americans to study in Norway The purpose of the scholarships is to provide financial support for Americans to study in Norway. By supporting 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 NOK 10 000 to NOK 40 000. The size of the individual grants will depend on the research subject, purpose and the intended length of stay in Norway. The scholarships are funded by Norge-Amerika Stiftelsen: The Norwegian Marshall Fund and the Thanksgiving Fund.

Alf and Bergljot Kolflat’s Fund for Architects and Engineers

This scholarship fund was a generous gift given 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.

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, seminar, or independent/organized research tour. It may also be used for visits to industrial plants and companies.

The scholarship is awarded to Norwegian engineers and architects with a minimum of three years of relevant work

Scholarship amount: Up to 40 000 NOK Number of awards: 1-2 per year

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

Awarded scholarships 2020-21

GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM NORGE-AMERIKA STIFTELSEN Henriette Wathne Gelink Koppang, Norway

PhD in Biology, Grizzly bear habitat management (Ecology) at US Forest Service, Gallatin National Forest, Bozeman Montana Kong Olav V Stipend Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Scholarship Amount: NOK 88 000 Source:

Joanne Michelle F. Ocampo

New York, NY DrPH in Public Health at Columbia University Source:

Stolt-Nielsen Fund for Education Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund Amount: USD 20 000

Vegard Hennestad Lindesnes, Norway

MSc-directed study in Applied Physics and Mathematics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology Source:

Haakon Styri Fellowship Fund Stolt-Nielsen Fund for Education Amount: USD 20 000

Postponing until spring 2022

Ellen Reitan

Ida Herdlevær

Trondheim, Norway PhD in Economics at Arizona State Universit Source: Mathilde Aas Fund Amount: USD 10 000 Awaiting ITIN status*

Bergen, Norway

PhD in Medical Sciences, Neuroimmunology (Medical Sciences) at Stanford University, California Ragnhild Marie Løkens Utdannelsesfond Franklin D. Roosevelts Minnefond Amount: NOK 56 000 Source:

Hans Anders Grevstad

Postponing until spring 2022

Jæren, Norway

Elise Mikalsen Steinsland

Source:

Mosterhamn, Norway

MSW in Macro Social work with a field of practice in Global Social work at Boston College Source:

King Olav V Fødselsdag Stipend Royal Caribbean Cruise Line Scholarship Amount: NOK 105 000

THANKS TO SCANDINAVIA

MBA, Finance at City University of New York Mathilde Aas Fund Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund Amount: USD 20 000 Awaiting ITIN status*

Pandora Angelique Bøe Porsgrunn, Norway

MFA, Fine Arts at The New School

Mari Eik

King Haakon VII Birthday Fund Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund Amount: USD 20 000

MS in Clinical Mental Health at the University of Texas at San Antono

Anton Abilov

Randaberg, Norway

Source:

Postponing until Fall 2021

Oslo, Norway

Kolbotn, Norway MSc-directed study, Computer Science at Cornell University Source: Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund Amount: USD 20 000

JD in Law, International Law at The George Washington University

Rosanna Maria Kvie

Amount: USD 20 000

Thea Charlotte Andersen

Amount: USD 20 000

AMERICAN SCANDINAVIAN FOUNDATION Haakon Husøy

Trondheim, Norway MA in International Affairs at Columbia University Source:

Carl Olaf, Marie, and Katherine Elizabeth Johnson Fellowship Fund Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund Amount: USD 20 000

Tananger, Norway

MS in Accounting at Florida Atlantic University Source: Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund Amount: USD 20 000

Knut Esten Thomassen Stendal

Oslo, Norway

MA in Music Composition at Carnegie Mellon University Source: Andrew E. and G. Norman Wigeland Fund Amount: USD 20 000 Cancelled

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

Ingvild Austad

Eliana McCann Smith

MA in Education at University of California, Berkeley

MSc in Biology, Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)

Kragerø, Norway Source: Norway House Foundation Amount: USD 10 000 Cancelled

Danielle Dahl

Montclair, New Jersey

Source:

The Thanksgiving Fund Norwegian Marshall Fund Amount: NOK 20 000

Skreia, Norway

Hannah Markay

MFA, Experimental Sound Practices at California Institute of Art

LLM in Public International Law at the University of Oslo

Pompton Plains, New Jersey

Source: Norway House Foundation Amount: USD 20 000

Source: The Norwegian Marshall Fund Amount: NOK 39 000

Marianne Duran

Kayla Holderbein

PharmD, Medical Sciences at University of California, San Francisco

MA in Communication, Screen Cultures at University of Oslo

Ballstad, Norway

Source: Norway House Foundation Amount: USD 20 000

Synne Frydenberg Asker, Norway

PhD in Interaction Design (Institution pending) Source: Norway House Foundation Amount: USD 10 000 Postponing until Fall 2022

Nina Hagen Kaldhol

La Jolla, California

PhD in Linguistics at University of California, San Diego Source: Norway House Foundation Amount: USD 20 000

Birk Emil Karlsen-Bæck

Danville, California

Source: The Norwegian Marshall Fund Amount: NOK 39 000

Shannon Moore

Shoreview, Minnesota MSc in Environmental Sciences, Ecology and Conservation at the University of Tromsø Source: Norwegian Marshall Fund Amount: NOK 39 000

Zofia Warpeha

Brooklyn, New York Master of Music, Nordic folk music at Norges Musikk høgskole Source:

Norwegian Marshall Fund The Thanksgiving Fund Amount: NOK 39 000

Tromsø, Norway

UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAM**

MSc-directed study, Applied Physics at University of California, Berkeley

Mathias Næss

Source: Norway House Foundation Amount: USD 5 000 Postponing until Fall 2021

Katarina Ruud

Drammen, Norway MA in Education at University of California, Berkeley Source: Norway House Foundation Amount: USD 10 000 Postponing until Fall 2021

Bærum, Norway BA in Organizational Management and Leadership at North Park University

Silje Normann Skien, Norway

BA in Business at Pacific Lutheran University * ITIN: Individual Taxpayer Identification Number ** In addition, 11 students were admitted to our partner schools, but have postponed or cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic

AMERICAN STUDENTS SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM NORGE-AMERIKA STIFTELSEN Elaina Weber

Northville, Michigan MA in International Environmental Studies at Norwegian University of Life Sciences Source: Norwegian Marshall Fund Amount: NOK 20 000

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

chase thety! opportuni

Reports from the field Haakon Husøy

Columbia University, New York MA in International Affairs

My time at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) in New York City is soon nearing its end. The last two years on American soil turned out to be slightly more eventful than I had originally imagined. Even as I am writing this report, the dust has yet to settle from yesterday’s tragic storming of the Capitol Building in Washington D.C. Despite the year 2020 (and now potentially 2021 as well) being somewhat original, I do not regret the slightest bit my decision to pursue graduate studies in the United States. Studying at Columbia University has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had on both an academic and personal level, and I owe NORAM and its sponsors tremendous gratitude for making this journey possible. I arrived in New York City in the fall of 2019 to pursue a two-year Master of International Affairs (MIA) degree with a concentration in International Security Policy and an in-depth focus on cybersecurity. I chose SIPA and the United States as my study destination for a number of reasons. SIPA was and is one of the world-leading schools in the intersection of public policy and international affairs. But more importantly, the MIA program structure and SIPA’s academic faculty were a perfect fit with my professional and academic goals: I wanted

At Coloumbia

to attain a more holistic understanding of global affairs and security, essential tools in policymaking, and a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity from both a technical and geo political perspective. SIPA delivered on all accounts. But equally important as the academic quality of SIPA were my fellow peers. Columbia University attracts an incredibly diverse pool of talented and inspiring students with over 156 countries currently represented. I cannot overemphasize the value this added to my experience. From cooperating with law and engineering students on producing and presenting a cybersecurity policy paper to a member of the U.S. Congress, to exploring the buzzing New York City jazz scene with music journalism students, the connections I have made have widened my perspective and inspired my ambitions. Lastly, I believe that studying as a Norwegian in the United States has never been more important. The past four years serve as a stark reminder of the need for an accurate understanding of our nation’s most important strategic partner and how its evolving priorities and policies impact Norwegian interests. By studying in the United States, I have strengthened this understanding as well as my ability to advocate for the preservation and further advancement of our nations’ trans atlantic alliance and cooperation.

From the left: Haakon Husøy, Daniele Schiavello (Italy) and Johannes Hallermeier (Germany) at graduation.

I strongly encourage Norwegian students to pursue studies in the United States and want to express my deepest gratitude to NORAM for making journeys like mine possible. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if I can be of any help to prospective students. I would never have had this opportunity without the sound advice from people who have made the journey before me.

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

Eliana McCann Smith

Norwegian Institute of Science and Technology, Oslo Master in Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry I am currently in my last semester of a master’s degree in environmental toxicology and chemistry at the Norwegian Institute of Science and Technology. My experience in Norway so far has exceeded my expectations. I have been very fortunate with experiences, in both the academic and personal spheres. Upon arrival, I was swept up by all of the social aspects of being a student in the “best student city in Norway.” I have met so many interesting people here who have helped and encouraged me to learn how to cross-country ski, go rock climbing, do polar plunges, and countless other (usually outdoor) activities. I am impressed by the international environment at NTNU and find the faculty to be very friendly and open to helping students. In the spring semester, I attended the University in Svalbard (UNIS) located on the arctic archipelago of Svalbard, Norway. Going to the Arctic was something I had never thought of doing before, but I am so glad I ended up there. We experienced the real polar night and midnight sun with not a single glimpse of sun in the winter, yet with no respite from it in summer. Returning to the mainland during the height of the corona pandemic, was quite a shock. Despite the pandemic, I was able to join a summer fieldwork assignment with the Norwegian Institute of Nature Research (NINA) monitoring puffins and kittiwakes on an island in Vesterålen. This experience was incredible, and further cemented my interest in studying birds.

Fieldwork during the summer of 2020 in Vesterålen monitoring kittiwakes and puffins

During the second year of my masters, I dove into my thesis project which focused on determining the effects of micro plastic exposure in birds. I worked closely with my supervisor in conducting a toxicological experiment on Japanese quails over the course of 6 intense weeks. I am now working on analyzing the tissue samples, with a specific focus on the effect of plastics on fatty acid composition. I will be presenting my results at the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry (SETAC) conference this spring, and plan to deliver my thesis in May 2021. The last year has certainly been an extra ordinary time in the world and although life has changed considerably, I find myself extremely lucky to be able to continue my education here in Norway. I am tremendously grateful for the financial help which NORAM has provided me and countless other American and Norwegian students, and for the chance for a wonderful cross-cultural experience.

Midday picture of our backyard in Longyearbyen, Svalbard in early February 2020.

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

Elise Steinsland

Boston College, Boston Master of Social Work Through my master’s in social work at Boston college I truly feel I have grown and further developed my professional skills. By attending a top 10 ranked school in the U.S. for social work, I have gained a better insight in the complex systems that are at play in the U.S. The global focus on my degree has also helped cast a light on the role of social workers from the Global North and how this plays a role when working in the Global South. This year, in the U.S. has been filled with protests and the Black Lives Matter movement and has sparked discussions in the classroom including what it means to be a white social worker, working with marginalized groups in society. It has been a unique opportunity to be a part of a social movement and critically reflect on one’s role in oppression and marginalization. The election has also been a major event, and I have been able to gain greater insight in democratic processes and how social work has a place in promoting democracy. The internship and field education that Boston College offers has proven invaluable and I have acquired new insight and connections within the social work field. My first year I had my internship at Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services (IRIS), teaching me about the laws and needs of that population. My final internship will be with Jesuit Refugee Services

(JRS) based out of their headquarters in Rome, Italy. Due to COVID restrictions, students are not allowed to travel, and the internship will be virtually. The internship is with the HR section, helping to provide resources and support to HR officers around the 60 different countries where JRS is located. As non-profit organizations around the world are increasingly seeing the importance of offering mental health support to staff, this will be an important experience. The organization also serves immigrants and refugees, which is the population I hope to work with in the future.

I was lucky enough to move in with my roommate and his two dogs, which have been so supportive during this year of online school.

Although COVID has complicated traditional classroom learning, online classes have proven both a challenge and an opportunity. It was hard to transition into learning in an online format and getting comfortable using the technology such as Zoom and Mural. But it has also given new flexibility and has taught me to utilize new online technology and become accustomed to see yourself on camera. This is something that is used more and more in the field and will be a useful skill to have. With many experiencing loss and changes due to COVID, I am grateful that my education has been able to continue, despite the circumstances. Personally, my stay in the U.S. and the scholarship has meant a lot. A couple of weeks before I was awarded the scholarship I was involved in an accident, where my neighbor accidentally discharged his conceal and carry, and shot me in the foot. I was immediately brought to the hospital, and nine days later I had surgery to remove the bullet. Being thrown into the health care system in the US as a Norwegian has taught me more than I could imagine. Not only did I have to learn about the healthcare system, but I was also forced to learn about the criminal justice system on an individual level. To be on the receiving end of a service shows you in many ways what to do and what not to do. I have also been able to better understand the advantages of having a privatized health care system and the quality of care received. But also, the frustration of being caught in a system that cares more about if you have insurance, than to actually treat you. As I am in recovery, with the hopes of one day walking pain free again, and with the uncertainty that a pandemic brings, I can face the future more confidently with a versatile education in a field needed now more than ever.

During my first year I interned for IRIS (Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services), where I helped organize Run for Refugees.

The personal and professional advantages by attending Boston College in the United States is something that I think in the end will make me a better social worker and I hope to take my newly acquired professional skills with me into my career, whether that be in the U.S. or back home in Norway. I would therefore like to extend my gratitude to NORAM for being a part in making this possible for me.

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

Joanne Michelle F. Ocampo

Columbia University, New York DrPH, Public Health

October 30, 2020 New York City, NY

and education. While work and school efforts have been challenging, I must admit that they do not compare to how difficult it has been to be far away from my family and friends during this global health crisis.

Hi all,

I wanted to thank you for supporting me and other students who have pursued novel and challenging disciplines and careers. Turning the pages of NORAM´s centennial anniversary book (“A Journey Through Higher Education”) illustrates that I am in good company with others who have also journeyed through the academic pursuit of knowledge during trying historical times.

(Modified translation from original letter in Norwegian)

When I applied for admission to doctoral studies in public health focused on global health and humanitarian crises, I did not envision that my graduate work which also involves epidemiology, would suddenly come to life right in front of my very eyes here in New York City. But it did. COVID-19 plagued the city as a humanitarian and a health policy-related crisis, and was followed by protests and election-related tensions preceding the historical presidential election underway as I am writing this note to you. Working to improve public health is always demanding, but it sure has been a heavy lift these days. It is safe to say that so far, I have had a rather unusual experience with my doctoral studies. I have supported COVID-19-related research and led emergency response teams in the fight against COVID-19. At the same time, I have also been a graduate student scholar with the Norway America Association (NORAM)/ American Scandinavian Foundation (ASF) staying focused on my coursework

In front of the Columbia subway sign on 116th Street in NYC in 2020.

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

With this letter, I would like to thank NORAM and ASF for supporting my doctoral studies in public health here at Columbia University. There is no doubt that I have chosen a doctoral study and a career path with much relevance in the time to come. Thanks for supporting me, and for supporting us. Stay healthy, safe, and well, All the best, Joanne Michelle At a vaccination center in NYC.

Annual Report 2020 The Norway-America Association (NORAM) is a non-profit membership association whose purpose is to strengthen the bonds between Norway and North America. The Association is open to anyone interested in transatlantic cooperation through academic and cultural exchange. NORAM has three target groups: • Those who wish to learn (students, pupils, members, and partners) • Those who teach (universities and colleges in Norway and North America) • Those who want to facilitate learning (authorities, members, alumni, and partners) NORAM offers free counseling to students who want to study in the USA or Norway and is a resource for high school counselors. Through its activities, NORAM strengthens competence and international exchange and promotes networking and mutual understanding on both sides of the Atlantic. NORAM has several scholarship programs for bachelor’s and graduate studies and research stays. The scholarships are aimed toward Norwegian and American students. They are funded through the Norway-America Foundation and NORAM’s American partners American Scandinavian Foundation and Thanks to Scandinavia. NORAM also administers other scholarships, such as the America-Norway Heritage Fund, awarded to Americans who have highlighted the impact of Norwegian immigration on the United States through their life and work. NORAM and the Norwegian Atlantic Committee jointly administer the Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship, which allows younger Norwegian politicians the opportunity to spend a semester in Washington, D.C., a stay that often includes an internship in the Senate or Congress. Norgesskolen, NORAM’s summer school in Telemark for children and youth aged 9 to 18, is a unique offer to children and youth who live outside Norway yet have Norwegian connections. Norgesskolen may also provide students with the potential to enter the Norwegian higher education system. HIGHLIGHTS 2020 The whole world was affected by the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. NORAM/NWW experienced additional fundamental changes and even started new activities. What follows is a summary of the most important events of the year: NWW and NORAM merged The sister organizations Norwegians Worldwide, NWW (established 1907), and the Norway-America Association, NORAM (established 1919), agreed to merge into one joint organization. The merger was approved at the annual meetings of both associations on June 8, 2020. Norwegians Worldwide was the acquiring organization (corp. No. 939 616 233) and the name of the new organization is «the Norway-America Association (NORAM).» New bylaws and a more pointed mission statement were adopted.

The purpose of the merger was to gather the Associations’ scarce resources, thereby creating a sustainable and more robust organization, better adapted to current needs and demands. The corona pandemic impact On March 12, Norwegian society was shut down to limit infection and gain control of the pandemic. Everyone who could work from home was required to use a home office. Within a few days, virtually all NORAM activities were carried out digitally. It was a steep learning curve as we had to adapt to the new situation. However, some activities and events had to be canceled or postponed indefinitely. Norgesskolen was canceled During the first three months of the year, planning, employment, and registrations for Norgesskolen 2020 proceeded as usual. The school was to be arranged at Sagavoll Folkehøyskole in Gvarv, Telemark, as in previous years. There was a record number of registrations. NWW held an extraordinary board meeting on April 2 and decided to cancel Norgesskolen for the first time in the school’s 18-year history. We surveyed parents of students enrolled for 2020 and former students to gauge the interest in a digital version of Norgesskolen. The conclusion was an unequivocal no, as Norgesskolen is attractive and unique because it combines formal Norwegian language teaching with experiences and leisure activities. The fact that the students gather physically in Norway and live together in a boarding school cannot be replaced by a digital program. Thus, Norgesskolen 2020 was canceled. The administration kept the interest in the program alive throughout the summer and autumn, with age-appropriate recommendations for Norwegian literature, among other things. Dual citizenship achieved – a win for Norwegians Worldwide The new Citizenship Act entered into force on January 1, 2020. On February 3, the new electronic application form of the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) was ready. From that day on, people who had lost their Norwegian citizenship could apply to regain it. The case has been of great importance to the Association’s members. A lot of work went into informing the public about the case in social media and newsletters to members. NWW also took the initiative to make a podcast about the new Citizenship Act and asked in advance for input on topics via Facebook and received more than 50 questions and comments.

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

A flurry of activity and interest in NORAM scholarships and counsel In 2020, 29 scholarships were awarded, with a total value of NOK 3,826,800. Initially, 40 students were nominated for scholarships from NORAM or one of our partners and schools. Due to the pandemic, however, several had to cancel their studies or postpone them until next year. NORAM decided not to seek reimbursement for scholarship money from students who chose to return home due to the pandemic. There is still a great interest to study and do research in North America. NORAM, however, was not able to support all qualified applicants in 2020. American students are also interested in studying in Norway, and NORAM awarded all available scholarships from the Norway-America Foundation’s Marshall Fund earmarked for Americans. All the American fellows started their studies in Norway after completing the quarantine period.

In 2020, NORAM emphasized counseling students and pupils and participated in several trade fairs and other types of events. Some of the annual events were canceled, but most of the study fairs proceeded digitally. NORAM is an active member of the EducationUSA network which consists of more than 400 advising centers around the world. The membership provides many funding opportunities and access to informational resources for NORAM, helping us provide better advising for students. Last year, NORAM embarked on using a digital application portal, www.stipendportalen.no, for graduate scholarships. This has eased the process for the applicants as well as the scholarship committee and the administration.

NORAM BY NUMBERS: Scholarships awarded through NORAM’s programs in 2020 Norwegians to the U.S.: Undergraduate admission and scholarships from schools

502 700

21****

3 138 100

The Norway-America Association Awards (Norge-Amerika Stiftelsen)

249 000

American-Scandinavian Foundation Awards (ASF)

2 513 500

Thanks to Scandinavia

365 600

The John Dana Archbold Fellowship

–

Alf and Bergljot Kolflat Award for Architects and Engineers (Norge-Amerika Stiftelsen)

–

Ambassador Robert D. Stuart Jr. Fellowship: Award for Norwegian Politicians to the U.S.

–

Americans to Norway:

Number of scholarship recipients/trainees

Scholarship Amount (NOK)*

Norwegian Marshall Fund/ Norwegian Thanksgiving Fund (Norge-Amerika Stiftelsen)

186 000

American Civilization Lecturing Fund (Norge-Amerika Stiftelsen)

–

3 826 800 NOK

Total:

Scholarship Amount (NOK)*

2***

Awards for Graduate Studies and Research in the U.S.:

* ** *** ****

Number of scholarship recipients/trainees

Awards made in USD have been converted using Norges Bank currency August 3rd 2020, 1 USD = 9,14 NOK No applicant was awarded In addition, 11 undergrad students were admitted to partner schools but chose to cancel or defer because of the Covid-19 pandemic Two awards were cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, six students have deferred

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

– There is still a great interest to study and do research in North America. ADMINISTRATION 2020 The cancellation of Norgesskolen caused a substantial loss of income in the first half of the year – and less work. Layoffs were thus inevitable as it was difficult to maintain full employment. • The head of Norgesskolen was partially laid off from April and left the organization on December 31.

RELATIONSHIPS AT HOME AND ABROAD The Norway-America Association collaborates with several organizations, including: • The Norwegian Emigrant Museum (Stiftelsen Norsk Utvandrermuseum) • NAHA – Norwegian-American Historical Association

• NWW’s advisor for communication and organizational development was partially laid off in April and left the organization when her engagement expired in August.

• American Chamber of Commerce Norway

• The executive officer of NWW and NORAM reduced her position to 80% in April and May and was partially laid off from 100 to 60% in the autumn of 2020.

• The Norwegian Seamen’s Church (Sjømannskirken)

• NORAM’s head of scholarships and communication maintained a 100% position throughout the year. From the autumn of 2020, the merged Norway-America Association (NORAM) has had 2.4 FTEs for a total of three employees. However, two employees have been partially laid off, so that the FTE amounted to 1.8 FTE in reality. Volunteers contribute significantly to NORAM, e.g., members of the board and scholarship committee and professional consultants who serve as volunteers. A bachelor student from St. Olaf College in Minnesota interned at NORAM for around four weeks in January/February. An internship in Norway is part of the study program for students majoring in Norwegian. This is the second time NORAM has had an intern from St. Olaf; the administration finds the arrangement to be very enriching and valuable. Royal patronage renewed HM King Harald renewed his royal patronage for NORAM for the period 2021–2025. The king has been a royal patron for both NWW and the Norway-America Association for three generations. Honors to former executive director Flatin Former executive director of the NWW and the Norway-America Association, Kjetil A. Flatin, was appointed Knight 1st Class in the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit by HM King Harald. Flatin received the honors as a recognition of his efforts to internationalize higher education and his work to promote awareness about Norway and strengthen the bond between emigrated Norwegians and Norway. Flatin wrote NORAM’s anniversary book A Journey through Higher Education, which was released in connection with NORAM’s 100th anniversary in 2019.

• American Coordinating Council Norway (ACCN) • The Association of NGOs in Norway (Frivillighet Norge) • American Scandinavian Foundation • Thanks to Scandinavia • Greater Tacoma Peace Prize • Sons of Norway • Chambers of Commerce in Houston, Seattle, and New York • Norwegian Society of Texas • The Norwegian American newspaper • Nordic Museum Seattle • Norway House, Minneapolis • The Sweden-America Foundation (Sverige-Amerika Stiftelsen) • Swedes Worldwide • Danes Worldwide • Finland Society • The Royal Society for Swedish Culture Abroad (Riksföreningen Sverigekontakt) FINANCES The financial situation of the merged organization remained weak in 2020. The merger entailed additional costs, and the deficit of NWW had to be taken into account for the year. NWW’s financial situation was not sustainable and was a chief reason behind the merger. The cancellation of Norgesskolen 2020 led to a significant revenue loss during the first half of the year. The annual result for 2020 was NOK -500,029, and the organization’s equity amounted to NOK 2,957,737 per 12.31.20. The new board has taken several steps to balance the budget for 2021. The administration has been heavily downsized, and contracts have been renegotiated. The search for sponsorship funds has been intensified. The board and the administration carved out a new strategy for NORAM in the autumn of 2020, with sustainability as a chief prerequisite.

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

THE FINANCING OF NORAM NWW and NORAM were granted NOK 900,000 over the Norwegian state budget for 2020. The grant is earmarked for “transatlantic cooperation.” The Association itself puts significant effort into financing the business. Each year the Association raises around NOK 900,000–1,000,000 in donations from private individuals, companies, and foundations in Norway and the USA. The Association also raises funds for Norgesskolen. These critical contributions from the Association’s supporters enable NORAM to reach out to students and pupils in Norway and North America with updated information about study opportunities and offer funding through many scholarship programs for bachelor, master, and Ph.D. studies as well as for research stays.

NORAM has an excellent working environment and little absence due to illness. The Association’s activities do not have significant environmental impacts. NORAM strives for equality between the sexes, both with regards to employment and in other affairs. In 2020, four women were employed by the Association, and two out of eight board members are women. NORAM had nine professional consultants and seven members of the scholarship committee in 2020 who served as volunteers. The Norway-America Association/NORAM is headquartered in Rådhusgaten 23B in Oslo.

The annual accounts have been submitted on the assumption of continued operations. There have been no circumstances of material significance to the results after the end of the financial year.

Oslo, April 1, 2021

Peder Chr. Løvenskiold Chair

Helmer Aslaksen

Knut Brakstad

Ingrid Margrete Hillestad

Eirik Løkke

Håvard Sandvik

Dag Ådne Tørvold

Ingrid Helsingen Warner

Hanne K. Aaberg Executive Director

NORAM Yearbook with Annual Report 2020

Financial statement 2020 Norge-Amerika Stiftelsen Org. nr.: NO 977 130 972

The Norway-America Association Org. nr.: NO 939 616 233 In NOK

2020

In NOK

2020

2019

Statement of financial position

Income Membership

108 342

Financial return of investments

3 062 839

3 898 949