Fulbright Finland News 1/2019

visiting columnist: ambassador of the united states

THE ISSUE 69 VOL. 29 SPRING 2019

FULBRIGHT FINLAND

Truth Matters Combating Manipulated Realities Celebrating ASLA-Fulbright 70th Leadership and Learning Across Cultures

biannual magazine published by the fulbright finland foundation

FROM THE EDITOR

You Design the Future

L

eadership does not depend on titles, or age. And I am tempted to say, in the case of countries, on size. Leadership is a state of

mind, a determination to take action, and to own the responsibility to create positive change. It is a choice that anyone can make.

The characteristic that Fulbright Finland Foun-

the two governments, it has become embraced by

dation grantees and alumni share, irrespective of

civil society as well as individuals and institutions

their age, title, field, or background, is that they

on both sides of the Atlantic in a manner that has

choose to lead. Through research, studies, and both

raised it to levels that only broad and genuine col-

professional and personal involvement during their

laboration can achieve.

grant period and thereafter, the grantees’ ultimate goal is to make an impact in society and cre-

AS WE CELEBRATE THE 70TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR

ate meaningful change. Currently, our grantees are

of ASLA-Fulbright, we want to recognize everyone

tackling some of the most urgent issues facing the

with a role in the past, present and future of Finn-

global community: climate change and sustainabil-

ish-American exchanges. I thank our hard-working

ity, disinformation and media literacy, education

and passionate staff team and our dedicated Board

and equity, human rights, security and peace.

of Directors, the Finnish and U.S. governments, our university and institutional partners, our private

IN THIS ISSUE of the Fulbright Finland News our

sector and individual donors, and our hundreds of

grantees and alumni share their diverse paths

expert volunteers. Thank you for investing in our

and efforts to create positive change. From arts,

collective future!

academia and government to non-profits and corporates, these are stories of leadership and

And most of all, I thank our grantees and alumni.

You design the future!

determination.

The story of the Fulbright Finland Founda-

IN THIS ISSUE

Terhi Mölsä

tion is unique. It has a history unlike any other.

Chief Executive Officer

And its present day is equally unique. Founded by

Fulbright Finland Foundation

8 10 13 16

FULBRIGHT ARCTIC INITIATIVE International Collaboration to Address Shared Challenges MILESTONES CELEBRATED IN WASHINGTON D.C. INNOVATIONS IN SCHOOL LEADERSHIP COMBINING WORK AND FAMILY

6

TRUTH MATTERS SEMINAR

Fulbright grantees and alumni media experts from the Nordic-Baltic region attended the Truth Matters seminar.

4 News 17 Alumni 18 Alumni in Focus: Rebecca L. Macieira-Kaufmann 2 | www.fulbright.fi

Cover photo: Studio Terho Photography

VISITING COLUMNIST

We have much to celebrate this year and we are off to a great start.

U.S. Commitment to Fulbright Finland is Rock Solid 2019 IS A VERY SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY YEAR, as we

Now in its 70th year, the Fulbright program in Fin-

commemorate the 100th anniversary of U.S.-Finn-

land remains an important part of our relationship.

ish diplomatic relations and the 70th anniversary of

Over the past few years, Fulbright Finland has tackled

ASLA-Fulbright. We have much to celebrate this year

some of the most pressing issues facing the interna-

and we are off to a great start.

tional community through a series of seminars fea-

I was honored to mark the Centennial of U.S.-Finn-

turing renowned American and Finnish scholars such

ish diplomatic relations on May 7 with Secretary of

as this year’s “Truth Matters: Combating Manipulated

State Pompeo in Rovaniemi, where he delivered a

Realities” and the Fulbright Arctic Initiative week

speech on U.S. Arctic policy, participated in the Arc-

in Helsinki and Oulu, as well as last year’s “Making

tic Council Ministerial, and had a meeting with For-

Democracies Resilient to Modern Threats.”

eign Minister Soini. In April, we launched the 100 years of Diplomatic Relations exhibit, a joint project with

AS THE HONORARY CHAIR of the Fulbright Finland

the Finnish Embassy in Washington, at the Helsinki

Foundation Board of Directors, I assure you that the

Music Center, Musiikkitalo, with a joint performance

U.S. commitment to Fulbright Finland is rock solid.

by clarinet ensembles from the U.S. Air Forces in

The U.S. Centennial Gift to Finland in 2017 was a

Europe Band and Kaartin Soittokunta. We also trav-

$500,000 donation to the Fulbright Finland Founda-

eled to Turku with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs

tion and we provided another $1,000,000 this past

and Team Finland to conduct business outreach to

year, in addition to our regular allocation. The United

increase trade, investment, and innovation between

States launched the second Fulbright Arctic Initiative

our countries.

program last year, with top scholars from the Arctic

Most recently, I delivered remarks at the 2019 Fulbright Finland Award Ceremony in Helsinki’s beau-

Council Member States tackling some of the region’s— and indeed the world’s—most pressing issues.

tiful City Hall on May 14, congratulating the latest

I would like to thank the Fulbright Finland Foun-

cohort of students, scholars, and researchers. As we

dation for working diligently now and over the past

celebrate our centennial, I am particularly excited that

70 years to advance the U.S.-Finnish relationship and

we eclipsed 100 grantees this year, reaching our high-

to increase mutual understanding between our great

est level since the 1960s.

countries. We have much to celebrate and much to do

After meeting many of this year’s grantees, I am

going forward. I look forward to working with you.

confident that our latest grantees and alumni will be at the forefront of research in their respective fields.

We have high expectations for them. Who will be the

Robert Frank Pence

next Fulbrighter to win a Pulitzer or to receive a Nobel

Ambassador of the United States of America

Prize like Bengt Holmström?

to the Republic of Finland

www.fulbright.fi | 3

FULBRIGHT ASSOCIATION

NEWS

Berliinissä pidetyssä Fulbright-palkinnon julkistustilaisuudessa Taiwanin Fulbright-alumnijärjestön puheenjohtaja Jih-Chu Lee (vas.), Manfred Phillip USA:n Fulbright Associationista, liittokansleri Angela Merkel, USA:n Fulbright Associationin puheenjohtaja Mary Ellen Heian Schmider, CNN:n toimittaja Christiane Amanpour ja Fulbright Suomi –säätiön toimitusjohtaja Terhi Mölsä.

J. William Fulbright -palkinto liittokansleri Angela Merkelille

S

aksan liittokansleri Angela Merkel vastaan­

nallaan auttaneen ylläpitämään rauhaa Euroopassa

otti tammikuussa vuoden 2018 J. William

ja kaikkialla maailmassa.

Fulbright -palkinnon, joka myönnetään

Kansainväliseen palkintoraatiin kuului myös

kansainvälisen yhteisymmärryksen edistämisestä.

Fulbright Suomi -säätiön toimitusjohtaja Terhi

Yhdysvaltalaisen Fulbright Associationin vuodesta

Mölsä. Aiemmin Fulbright-palkinnon ovat saaneet

1993 jakaman tunnustuksen perusteluissa Merke-

mm. presidentti Martti Ahtisaari, edesmennyt

liä kuvataan kansainvälisen yhteistyön ja rauhan

Etelä-Afrikan presidentti Nelson Mandela ja USA:n

puolustamiseen omistautuneeksi johtajaksi.

entinen presidentti Jimmy Carter.

Esitellessään liittokansleri Merkelin Berliinissä järjestetyssä palkintotilaisuudessa CNN:n toimittaja Christiane Amanpour totesi Merkelin toimin-

Quick Figures

academic year 2018–2019

112

Record number of Fulbright Finland Foundation grantees

9

Record number of Fulbright Finland Inter-Country Travel Grantees

https://fulbright.org/ 2019/01/31/angela- merkel-awardedfulbright-prize-for-international-understanding/

Fulbright Finland's New Website Now Optimized for Your Mobile

F

ulbright Finland Foundation launched its new website in June. The renewed website

completes the Foundation’s new brand and visual image.

With a fresh design, the new website is fully optimized for mobile devices. New contents include blogs by grantees and alumni, showcasing the real impact of the Fulbright Finland experience. Stay tuned for additional content to come!

GO TO WWW.FULBRIGHT.FI and see for yourself! Send us your feedback and suggestions for new content at office@fulbright.fi.

4 | www.fulbright.fi

NEWS

Two U.S. Fulbright Students Receive Roth-Thomson Awards

F

ulbright-University of Helsinki

ring implementation efforts of the Close

Graduate Awardee Carolyn Kehn

Collaboration with Parents program in

and Fulbright U.S. Student Program

several NICUs.

Awardee Sarah Holdren received the 2019 Roth-Thomson Awards.

Carolyn Kehn uses the award to travel

Carolyn Kehn

to the U.S. to expand her research to con-

The award supports Sarah Holdren’s

duct simultaneous qualitative analysis

plan to evolve her original Fulbright proj-

with both the American and Finnish mil-

ect into a more implementation-based

itaries. Carolyn is currently completing

medical anthropology study. Sarah is

her master’s degree on Contemporary

currently doing research at the Univer-

Societies at the University of Helsinki.

sity of Turku on “Narratives of the NICU

Roth Endowment Awards are granted

(Neonatal Intensive Care Unit): Exploring

annually to U.S. Fulbright students in

Finnish Family-Centered Care and Infant

Finland focusing on the arts, humanities

Feeding”. With the support of the Lois

and social sciences. Fulbright Finland

Roth Endowment, Sarah has an opportu-

Foundation has worked with the Lois Roth

nity to follow both new and already occur-

Endowment since 1991.

Sarah Holdren

Unique from the Fulbright Finland Foundation

Short-Term Travel Grants

F

ulbright grants are traditionally

developed in Europe,” she says. In addi-

awarded for long-term visits to

tion to her postdoctoral work at Aalto,

the U.S. but the Fulbright Finland

Irina participates in the Aalto Scientists

Foundation also offers two short-term

at School program in which scientists visit

travel grant programs to the U.S. outside of

Finnish schools to talk about science and

the traditional Fulbright program. Candi-

get children interested in science: “Work-

dates must represent Finnish institutions

ing in the area of physics and technology,

but do not need to be Finnish citizens.

and especially as a woman in science, I can

The Fulbright Finland Travel Grants for Research Collaboration were launched

tell them about various hot research topics and my particular journey.”

Irina Nefedova 2019 Fulbright Finland Travel Grant for Research Collaboration NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), California

in 2015 and are meant for researchers to oration, to advance collaboration between

Institutional Partnership Building

institutions and to serve as ambassadors of

This year the Foundation was pleased to

In the first application round, the

Fulbright Finland and Finnish-American

announce a second travel grant program.

Foundation selected two grantees for the

academic exchanges. This year, the Foun-

The Fulbright Finland Travel Grants for

new program. Anita Bisi is an Interna-

dation selected 6 travel grantees who rep-

Institutional Partnership Building are

tional Relations Manager at Aalto Uni-

resent a wide range of academic fields and

short-term travel grants for faculty or staff

versity and she will visit the Texas A&M

are working on timely research topics such

from Finnish higher education institutions

University to build further the collabo-

as warming of the Arctic Ocean, bioethics

to travel to the U.S. to initiate or advance

ration between the institutions. Michael

and global education.

institutional partnerships between the

Lowery Wilson is a group leader of the

Irina Nefedova from Aalto Univer-

candidate’s Finnish home institution and

Injury Epidemiology and Prevention

sity will visit the NASA Jet Propulsion

U.S. host institution. The purpose is to cre-

Research Group at the University of Turku

Laboratory (JPL) in California to conduct

ate long-term collaboration between Finn-

and he will travel to the Jacobi Medical

research related to an ongoing Euro-

ish and U.S. institutions in for instance

Research Center in New York to negotiate

pean Space Agency (ESA) project. Irina is

student and staff mobility, dual degree

the terms of planned long-term bilateral

excited about her upcoming visit. “During

programs, or curriculum collaboration.

faculty and student exchanges in the con-

visit U.S. universities for research collab-

in person to negotiate and work out the details of partnerships.

my stay, I will collaborate with JPL col-

The new program was founded in

leagues - world leaders in the THz remote

response to feedback from the higher

text of research and training between the

sensing and on-wafer measurements.

education field noting that funding

The outcomes of the visit will benefit the

opportunities are very limited for uni-

www.fulbright.fi/grant-programs-us/

Finnish THz community by acquiring

versity representatives, including staff,

short-term-travel-grants-us

measurement capabilities that are not yet

specifically for the purpose of meeting

Text: Emmi Jelekäinen

institutions.

www.fulbright.fi | 5

ON THE COVER

Truth Matters What happens if we can no longer trust our eyes and ears?

Text MAIJA KETTUNEN Photos STUDIO TERHO PHOTOGRAPHY

Seminar program, presentations, photos, and further readings: www.fulbright.fi/event/ truth-matters

6 | www.fulbright.fi

Written and visual content is used to communicate,

the largest Estonian daily, Postimees. “It was a great

inform and influence, and to shape collective ideas

reminder to pay more attention to fact-checking

about people, politics, and public policy. Disinfor-

on each and every article and be more critical to

mation, manipulated videos and images spread on

images shared in social media.”

multiple platforms. In the era of deepfakes, how can

“These are critical questions that have come

we distinguish between true and false informa-

to concern all of us,” CEO of the Fulbright Fin-

tion? And what are the implications to our societies

land Foundation Terhi Mölsä noted in her opening

and our democratic institutions?

remarks. “You can no longer talk about the security

To facilitate cross-border dialogue and collabo-

of individual people without talking about security

ration to address these pressing current challenges,

in digital spaces. Simultaneously, cybersecurity

the Fulbright Finland Foundation organized a pub-

skills and media literacy skills have become basic

lic international seminar Truth Matters: Strategies for

skills that all citizens need. A high level of media

Combating Manipulated Realities.

literacy is a critical factor that enables citizens to

The keynote was given by Farida Vis, Director

function and make informed decisions in the digi-

of the Visual Social Media Lab, Manchester, UK,

tal age. Media literacy is a pre-requisite for a mod-

and an expert in visual disinformation research.

ern democracy,” she argued.

Vis and her team study the influence of images

The broad implications on democracies and the

on social media, and have developed a frame-

societal responses were discussed by an expert

work based on research that guides the in-depth

panel which included Director General Päivi Ant-

interrogation process of images. Vis expressed a

tikoski from the Finnish Prime Minister’s Office,

profound concern about the development of deep-

Professor of Cybersecurity Jarno Limnéll from

fakes, a technique for human image synthesis

Aalto University, Vice President of Education

based on artificial intelligence. It is increasingly

Barbara McCormack from the Freedom Forum

difficult for consumers to detect whether or not for

Institute, Mikko Salo, co-founder of Faktabaari

instance video interviews with our political leaders

(FactBar) and member of the European Commis-

are authentic or entirely fabricated.

sion’s High-Level Group on Fake News and Online

“The keynote by Vis offered not only well-ar-

disinformation, and Olli Seuri, an award-winning

ticulated understanding of the problem, but also

journalist and journalism researcher, who recently

useful tools of recognizing manipulated images

co-authored a nonfiction book on post-truth and

and examples of both politicians and even journal-

media called Totuuden jälkeen. The lively panel was

ists spreading information which had no proven

moderated by Mari K. Niemi, Director of the Inno-

evidence,” says Fulbright alumna Agaate Antson

vation and Entrepreneurship InnoLab of the Uni-

who currently works as a reporter and editor for

versity of Vaasa.

TRUTH MATTERS

Manipulated reality can be fought by educating people in media literacy.

The Truth Matters seminar was organized at the auditorium of the new Oodi library in Helsinki.

Among the panelists were Mikko Salo (left), cofounder of Faktabaari (FactBar) and Olli Seuri, an award-winning journalist and co-author of a recent nonfiction book on post-truth and media.

Naomi Kellogg (in cover photo), a current Ful-

ing media, government, academic institutions,

bright English Teaching Assistant in Norway flew

think-tanks, and NGOs from northern Europe to

to the seminar from Oslo. “As an American, con-

Helsinki both to participate in its seminars and

stantly struggling to understand the full scope and

to meet each other and form networks for long-

threats of mis- and dis-information on my coun-

term collaboration across borders in the region.

try’s political landscape, I found the events infor-

This was the second year in a row that the Founda-

mative and engaging. The keynote speaker spoke

tion convened Fulbrighters in the region under its

brilliantly on the topic while making information

Nordic-Baltic Fulbright Initiative, this time with a

accessible to the varying levels of expertise in the

special focus on journalists and media and com-

room. As a fellow woman of color and aspiring

munication professionals. Close to 30 Fulbright

scholar, it was extremely inspiring to witness such

grantees and alumni media experts from abroad

an amazing presentation. I left the seminar feeling

attended the meeting held in conjunction with the

as if I had a renewed perspective on the many ways

public seminar.

to make an impact in the world in my field. This type of perspective is invaluable.”

Kristina Juraitė, a Fulbright alumna and professor and head of Department of Public Commu-

The Truth Matters seminar was particularly

nications of Vytautas Magnus University traveled

timely as it took place right before many national

to the meeting from Lithuania. “Disinformation,

and European elections. The seminar offered two

propaganda, fabrication, manipulation and alter-

hands-on workshops focusing specifically on

native facts, these are serious issues for the post-

media literacy and fact-checking for voters.

truth world to face,” she says. “These challenges

“The nuance and complexity of ‘fake news’ is

require refreshing and reconsidering fundamen-

what really surprised me at the symposium. For me,

tal values of democracy, such as truth, freedom of

a reporter moonlighting as a college teacher, the

expression, trust, media professionalism and civil

largest takeaway is how manipulated reality can be

society. Therefore, critical discussions and educa-

fought beyond the media by educating people, young

tional interventions are crucial to deal with new

and old, in media literacy,” says Egill Bjarnason, an

realities and contexts. I am really appreciative to

Icelandic Fulbright alum and correspondent for The

the Fulbright Finland Foundation for organizing

Associated Press, and freelance journalist for The

this seminar that also served as a platform for

New York Times, and Al Jazeera English.

learning, sharing and networking among Ful-

Fulbright-University of Turku Graduate grantee Michelle Paterick (center) is completing a master’s degree in Education and Learning at the University of Turku.

Her master’s thesis research focuses on how entrepreneurship education at the high school level strengthens workforce and life skills. Together with all of the other U.S. Fulbright grantees currently in Finland, Michelle participated in the Truth Matters seminar. Read Michelle’s reflections on the seminar and its learning outcomes online at www.fulbright.fi/about-us/ blog/what-does-truth-mean

bright fellows and alumni from the Nordic-Baltic

Nordic-Baltic Collaboration

region.”

The Fulbright Finland Foundation routinely invites Fulbright alumni and current grantees represent-

www.fulbright.fi | 7

STUDIO TERHO PHOTOGRAPHY

FULBRIGHT ARCTIC INITIATIVE

Ministry for Foreign Affairs hosted a networking reception celebrating international collaboration in the Arctic.

FULBRIGHT FINLAND

Fulbright Arctic Initiative scholar Elizabeth Rink’s research addresses the socio-ecological determinants of sexual and reproductive health in Arctic indigenous communities. She is Associate Professor at Montana State University, and her research visit took place at the Thule Institute at the University of Oulu.

The scholars were invited to the Presidential Palace for a briefing by Jukka Siukosaari, Head of the Cabinet and Secretary General and Petri Hakkarai­ nen, Foreign Policy Adviser of the President.

Fulbright Arctic Initiative

International Collaboration to Address Shared Challenges Text MAIJA KETTUNEN See the program of the plenary week and recording of the symposium: www.fulbright.fi/event/ fulbright-arctic-researchaction

T

he 2018–2019 Fulbright Arctic Initiative

The scholars were invited to the Presidential

brings together a cohort of 16 established

Palace for a briefing including how the Office of the

researchers, early-career specialists, and

President of the Republic of Finland is leading by

indigenous knowledge experts from around the

example in reducing carbon footprint and tackling

circumpolar North to form a network of scholars to

climate change in the Arctic.

conduct research in two broad focus areas: Resilient Communities and Sustainable Economies.

8 | www.fulbright.fi

At the Parliament House the scholars were hosted by Katri Kulmuni, Member of the Parlia-

Coinciding with the Finnish chairmanship of

ment and the current chair of the Finnish Delega-

the Arctic Council, the Fulbright Finland Foun-

tion to the Conference of Parliamentarians of the

dation organized the Mid-Term Plenary Week for

Arctic Region. During a thought-provoking dia-

the Fulbright Arctic scholars in Finland. The week

logue with Kulmuni, the Fulbright Arctic Initiative

kicked off in Helsinki with policy briefings and

scholars discussed tips on how to effectively com-

strategic discussions with government officials,

municate their scientific research to policymakers.

parliamentarians, climate scientists, Sámi repre-

The scholars were also generously hosted by the

sentatives and other experts discussing Finland’s

City of Oulu, and the plenary week culminated in

chairmanship priorities and how they relate to the

the public symposium at the University of Oulu.

two focus areas of the current Fulbright Arctic Ini-

The scholars shared their innovative collaborative

tiative program.

research, and highlighted their ongoing projects

FULBRIGHT FINLAND

CURRENT GRANTEES

The Office of the President of the Republic of Finland is leading by example in reducing carbon footprint.

developing actionable recommendations for national and international Arctic policymakers.

At the conclusion of the week in Finland the Arctic scholars were connected with the Friends of Fulbright Finland alumni network in the United

Solving Global Problems Together Text JOANNE SWEENY, CECELIA LYNCH, and CAROLYN KEHN

States and already two months later the Friends of Fulbright Finland net-

HOW DO FINLAND AND THE U.S.

lens of understanding, but an imper-

work organized an alumni get-to-

COPE WITH PRESSING ISSUES OF

fect one.

gether for the scholars in Anchorage,

SOCIAL AND GENDER EQUALITY?

Looking at our problems from a

Alaska (see page 21).

While we come from three different

different point of view, a different

disciplines — law, political science,

country’s point of view, even one that

Understanding Life in the North

and sociology — and have quite diver-

seems to be doing a better job of han-

gent research topics for our stay here

dling the same issue, does not provide

In conjunction with the Fulbright

in Finland, we were asked to pres-

an easy solution to a complicated sit-

Arctic Initiative Plenary week, the

ent together at this year’s Fulbright

uation. Finland does not have every-

Fulbright Finland Foundation also

Forum. Commonality seemed difficult

thing figured out perfectly. Its history

brought over 20 current U.S. Fulbright

to find. JoAnne’s focus is on #metoo

and culture do not solve these prob-

grantees in Finland and their family

movements in the U.S. and Finland,

lems, and it is experiencing some of

members to Oulu to meet the Arctic

emphasizing the gaps left in existing

the same stressors as American soci-

scholars and learn about Arctic issues.

law that has led to the need for women

ety. Still, Finland provides different

Experiencing another side of Finland

to speak out more about their expe-

complications that can shine a light

also added to the U.S. grantees’ under-

riences with sexual trauma. Cecelia’s

on our own prejudices by showing us

standing of the life in the North. “Up

work focuses on humanitarian orga-

which different prejudices also exist,

until now, I had pictured the Arctic as

nizations and their critics, and asks

and what kinds of actions are being

the northern equivalent of the Ant-

whether the Nordic model of human-

taken to address them.

arctic, distant and inhospitable. This

itarian aid (and Finland’s role in it)

was far from the truth. The Arctic is

can provide an alternative to tradi-

AS WE CONTINUE OUR WORK, we can

a place of thriving communities and

tional aid that is often bogged down in

take significant lessons from Finland

life, and the challenges they are over-

paternalism. Finally, Carolyn’s work

and bring them to the United States,

coming are a lot closer to home than I

discusses comparative gendered iden-

but not clear answers. And, although

initially believed,” says U.S. Fulbright

tity in the American and Finnish mil-

some might wish for clearer resolu-

student Clinton Welsh. “From visit-

itaries, how those two countries have

tions of pressing problems, we left

ing Oulu with the Fulbright Finland

integrated women into their armed

the Forum energized by what we had

Foundation, I feel that I have a better

services, and whether the Nordic wel-

learned from each other and the audi-

appreciation of how resilient people of

fare state is a standard to be emulated.

ence. Because we have been exposed

the north and their communities can

Working together on our joint pre-

to other paths for enacting gender

be, and also that they are not distant,

sentation, however, showed that we

equality and dignity in humanitarian

but close neighbors,” he adds.

had more in common than we thought.

aid, we can pinpoint more of the pos-

While in Oulu, the U.S. grantees

A common thread wove through-

sibilities and dangers of each of these

also had a chance to travel back 5000

out our topics: we came to Finland to

paths in comparison with those in the

years in history and explore how peo-

study another way of looking at an

United States. Finland has provided

ple lived during the Stone Age at the

existing problem in the United States

us a stronger map with imperfect

banks of the River Ii during a day at

– whether sexual assault, humanitar-

but intriguing solutions that demand

Kierikki, the Europe Nostra Cultural

ian aid, or gender integration in the

continued exploration. We return

Heritage Award winning pre-historic

military – especially given Finland’s

home with the knowledge that not

settlement and research site. The

reputation for equality and sensitivity

through one country’s answers alone,

magical Aurora Borealis completed

in these areas. Ultimately, we came to

but together we can find a better path

the northern experience.

see that Finland can provide such a

towards solving global problems.

www.fulbright.fi | 9

#FULBRIGHTFIN70

Milestones Celebrated in Washington D.C.

SATU JÄRVELÄINEN

Text MAIJA KETTUNEN

In their remarks, Assistant Secretary of State Marie Royce (above left), Fulbright Finland Foundation CEO Terhi Mölsä, and Ambassador of Finland Kirsti Kauppi reflected on the unique history and impact of the ASLA-Fulbright program.

On behalf of the founding governments, Assistant Secretary Royce and Ambassador Kauppi were presented with the first two glass Kuksas, designed and produced in a limited edition for the 70th Anniversary of ASLA-Fulbright by current U.S. Fulbright fellow Jonathan Capps. Music for the celebration event was provided by Fulbright Finland alum, baritone Simon Barrad.

More photos from the event can be found here: www.fulbright.fi/ about-us/news-releases/ fulbrightfin70-celebratedwashington-dc

10 | www.fulbright.fi

T

he Fulbright Finland Foundation celebrated

Glass artist Capps designed and created a limited

the 70th anniversary of the ASLA-Fulbright

edition of glass Kuksas to honor the 70th Anniver-

Exchanges and the Centennial of Finn-

sary of ASLA-Fulbright. They will be given during

ish-U.S. diplomatic relations at the Finnish Embassy

the anniversary year as tributes of appreciation to

in Washington D.C. in May. The event brought

individuals and institutions that have significantly

together over 80 alumni, current and future grant-

contributed to the Fulbright Finland Foundation.

ees, program partners and other friends of Fulbright

Chief Executive Officer Terhi Mölsä honored

Finland to network and enjoy a full evening with

the founders of the ASLA-Fulbright program, the

surprise entertainment and Nordic buffet.

governments of Finland and the United States by

Many guests represented organizations in the

presenting the first Kuksas to Ambassador Kirsti

international education sector and various govern-

Kauppi and Assistant Secretary of State Marie

ment departments that have been working with

Royce, representatives of the Finnish and U.S. gov-

Fulbright over the years. Especially gratifying was

ernments respectively. “While founded by the two

the fact that so many Fulbrighters traveled great

governments, the Fulbright Finland program has

distances to share this unique opportunity to cele-

become embraced by the civil society and individ-

brate such important milestones together.

uals and institutions in both countries in a manner that has raised it onto levels that only broad and

Evening of Surprise Entertainment

genuine collaboration can bring about,” Mölsä said

“Largo al factotum”, or Figaro’s aria, as it is more

in her remarks.

commonly known, started playing and Simon Barrad, baritone and 2015-2016 U.S. Fulbright Fellow,

Remarks of Recognition

darted through the audience taking selfies while

ASLA-Fulbright program’s unique history and its

singing one of the most notoriously difficult songs

current engagement with the public-private sector

in the operatic repertoire. Barrad surprised the

were highlights of the official remarks. Ambassa-

guests by singing the concluding lines in Finnish.

dor Kirsti Kauppi focused on Fulbright Finland’s

A featured moment in the program was the

role in the diplomatic relations between Finland

presentation of the glass Kuksas, designed and

and the U.S.: “Fulbright Finland has been a big

created by U.S. Fulbright Fellow Jonathan Capps.

part of the relations between the U.S. and Finland.

#FULBRIGHTFIN70

The Finnish program shows how partners in both public and private sectors can support Fulbright at every level.

These connections that have been built through these exchanges are irreplaceable. They are connections between people, and very much also between institutions. I’m so glad about the fact that this highway is now used in both directions, and the benefits that we as individuals, as institutions and as nations get from this highway are PHOTOS: FULBRIGHT FINLAND

really beneficial for both of us.”

Elaborating on the connection between Finland and the United States, Assistant Secretary of State Marie Royce said: “On the Finnish side, the funding for Fulbright Finland comes from an impressive variety of sources. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t use Fulbright Finland as an excellent example of private-public partnerships. The Finnish program shows how partners in both public and private sectors can support Fulbright at every level.”

Thank you to all who came to celebrate with us, and to Ambassador Kauppi and the Embassy of Finland for hosting us.

For the history of ASLA-Fulbright see www.fulbright.fi/about-us/history-unlike-any-other

Finnish higher education, research, and innovation. The discussion highlighted the importance of cooperation between Finnish and U.S. institu-

Dialogue on Education and Innovation

tions and inspired concrete ideas for joint actions

Before the Anniversary Celebration, the Fulbright

in the future.

Finland alumni and Ilkka Turunen, Finland’s new

A guided tour around the Embassy building,

Counsellor of Education, Research, and Innova-

including the famous diplomatic sauna, concluded

tion had an informal dialogue on what is new in

this special event.

Ilkka Turunen (center) was appointed as a Team Finland Knowledge expert to Washington D.C. in 2018.

The purpose of the Team Finland Knowledge network is to implement Finland’s policies to promote the internationalization of higher education and research.

www.fulbright.fi | 11

Kuksa

Object that Embodies the Exchange of Culture and Ideas

Jonathan Capps 2018–2019 U.S. Fulbright Fellow to Finland Glass Artist Nuutajärvi Glass Village To honor the 70th Anniversary of ASLAFulbright, Jonathan Capps designed and created a glass Kuksa, a unique piece of art of which he produced a limited edition.

S

hortly after Terhi Mölsä, CEO of the Ful-

cup, a spoon, or a ladle. It stands for warmth, nour-

bright Finland Foundation asked me if I

ishment, and salvation – all of which are essential

would consider making something for Ful-

to survival but also in building and maintaining a

bright Finland’s 70th year celebration, I found a

community. Like the Fulbright exchange, the kuksa

used book on Tapio Wirkkala at a kirpputori - in the

can be passed from one person to the next. An

book, there is an image of Wirkkala’s hands holding

exchange, if you will, of its nourishing contents,

a kuksa cup. Like the kuksa cup they held, his hands

which strengthens relationships and the bonds of

were worn and well used. They were the hands of

human connection.

a craftsman. I could not stop thinking about this

This year the Fulbright Finland Foundation

image, and it became a point of inspiration for

launched its new logo. From the beginning (even

designing these gifts.

before I knew what the form would be), I wanted to

I was first introduced to the kuksa cup during a

include an element in its design that celebrated and

February family trip to Lapland. I became fasci-

recognized Fulbright Finland’s new look. To me, the

nated with this courageously modest vessel, and as

new logo looks like an overlapping, looping, mir-

I learned more of its humble origins I realized, on

rored pattern line that consists of various shades of

an existential level, that the kuksa is a metaphor

blue.

for my Fulbright Finland experience. Tradition-

My glass Kuksa represents a marriage of both

ally made from the knot of a birch tree, each kuksa

design and craftsmanship - an object that embodies

cup is uniquely personal, and meant to fit comfort-

the exchange of culture and ideas.

ably in the maker’s hands. The kuksa by design is

12 | www.fulbright.fi

a thoughtfully humble and practical vessel. It is

Read the whole story and watch a video of creating

multifunctional, simultaneously acting as a bowl, a

the Kuksa at www.fulbright.fi/about-us/blog/kuksa

FULBRIGHT FINLAND

#FULBRIGHTFIN70

FULBRIGHT FINLAND

FULBRIGHT IMPACT

Innovations in School Leadership U.S. school leaders learn about best educational practices to enhance student learning and develop 21st century skills.

Text MIRKA McINTIRE

Fulbright Leaders for Global Schools The FLGS is an intensive professional development opportunity for K–12 school administrators launched in collaboration with the U.S. State Department’s Teacher Exchange Program Branch, the Fulbright Finland Foundation and IREX. Educating the Head, the Heart, and the Hands: Lessons learned by the 2019 Cohort of the Fulbright Leaders for Global Schools, has been selected for the 2019 ASCD Conference on Educational Leadership, November 8-10, in National Harbor, Maryland.

“It is not often as educational administrators we

as a whole was an obvious consideration in how the

are given opportunities to learn from each other

program was organized and planned,” says Chris-

in authentic environments. Fulbright Leaders for

topher Huff, High School Principal of the Waverly

Global Schools provided me just that,” says Michele

Community Schools.

Miller, Principal at Steamboat Springs Schools.

The program began in Helsinki with briefings

In March, the inaugural FLGS program brought

and strategic discussions to provide the back-

ten school leaders from around the U.S. to Finland,

ground and framework for the Finnish educa-

including Michele Miller: “I was able to engage in

tion system and school leadership in Finland. In

deep learning while being in school and university

addition to school visits in Helsinki, Vantaa, and

environments that enhanced my experience. Learn-

Jyväskylä, the participants had the opportunity to

ing from Finnish educators and scholars caused me

reflect upon current educational leadership prac-

to reflect, question and shape my thinking around

tices and themes in Finland and the U.S. at the

our U.S. educational systems of support.”

University of Jyväskylä’s historic Seminarium Hall

The program facilitated the sharing of best prac-

where Finnish teacher education first started.

tices between U.S. and Finnish education adminis-

“Learning about the Finland educational system

trators and educators, and supported a dialogue to

from the National standards to the various path-

address innovations in school leadership.

ways for upper secondary students such as the work force, vocational and college pathways as well as

Experiencing Different Learning Environments

learning about the culture of Finland was extremely

“Just like the Finnish Education system itself,

cational change in Colorado. Another impact was

the Fulbright Leaders for Global Schools program

that there were a number of issues in Finnish edu-

was an experiential, phenomenon-based, and

cation that we see in U.S. education and they are

cross-curricular undertaking. An emphasis on

actually global issues, such as special education

modern competencies and the wellness of the child

and the best way to service these students while

informative and gave me ideas for impacting edu-

www.fulbright.fi | 13

CURRENT GRANTEES

Just like the Finnish Education system itself, the program was an experiential, phenomenonbased, and cross-curricular undertaking.

providing a continuum of services,” says Judith

and beyond. Many of the participants are already

Dauman, Director Strategic Support and Innova-

working on ways to incorporate more opportunities

tion at Aurora Public Schools in Colorado.

and spaces for students to move, play, and socialize

As the Finnish education system is rooted in the values and culture of the Finnish society, the pro-

throughout the school day as afforded by the Finnish school day schedule.

gram shed some light onto these cultural and societal

“Our summer school program will pilot a

elements that contribute to its education system. The

learning-through-play Kindergarten class with

U.S. school leaders experienced nature school at the

a strong outdoor classroom component inspired

Nuuksio National Park in Espoo, tried the napakelkka

by the connection the Finns have to the outdoors.

carousel sled on the frozen sea, relaxed in the sauna

Conversations will continue at all levels about the

and even swam in the Baltic Sea. Heureka Science

role of homework as it relates not only to academic

Center was featured in the program as an example of

achievement, but to the work-life balance for all

new and diverse learning environments that play an

students. These initiatives move our programming

important role in the Finnish curriculum.

towards a healthier and happier learning experience and honor the whole child instead of the cur-

The Impact Continues to Grow

rent compliance-based wellness programming,”

While the program was brief, impact will continue

says Mary Anne Butler, Assistant Superintendent

to grow as the participants share the takeaways

at Stonington Public Schools.

with wider audiences in their school, home state

Joy of Creating Finland has been a longstanding leader in education. As a Fulbright Finland Inter-Country Travel Grant recipient, I gained a better understanding why.

Loralie Heagy 2018–2019 Fulbright Finland Inter-Country Travel Grant Music teacher, non-profit director and teacher trainer Juneau, Alaska. Loralie came to Finland from the University of Strathclyde, UK where she is a Fulbright Distinguished Awards in Teaching grantee. (Loralie top right in the photo.)

Fulbright Finland Inter-Country Travel Grant www.fulbright.fi/ inter-country

W

hat makes the Fulbright Finland

teachers and pupils to take a creative approach

Inter-Country Travel Grant unique

to music and create their own compositions. The

is that school teachers are also eligi-

Finnish expression “ihan oma juttu” refers to the joy

ble to apply, not just scholars. Terhi Mölsä, Chief

that children can experience when creating their

Executive Officer of Fulbright Finland Founda-

own music. I was honored to attend the training as

tion, shared the reasoning behind their decision:

a member of the Musical Futures’ team and present

they value having teacher voice, viewpoint and

the Musical Futures approach to music-making in

expertise at the table when discussing solutions to

the school classroom.

today’s global challenges. This reason speaks to the

Thank you Fulbright Finland Foundation and

cross-disciplinary, holistic and innovative spirit of

the INTO Team for making my trip to Helsinki such

the Finnish education community.

a memorable and educational one. The time spent

During my five days in Helsinki, I had the oppor-

at the Fulbright Finland Foundation office talking

tunity to attend “Future Songwriting” training by

about educational issues is testimony to how sup-

INTO SCHOOL. The Creative Europe program of the

portive, involved and interested the entire Fulbright

European Commission selected Future Songwriting

Finland team is in forming lasting international

in July 2018 as the only major collaborative project

relationships with its grant recipients. I look forward

under Finnish management. Future Songwriting is

to connecting with the Fulbright Finland Alumni in

based on the INTO SCHOOL concept, developed in

Alaska now that I’m officially an alum!

Finland called Ihan Oma Juttu (my own thing).

The main goal of the project is to make composing an integral part of music education, inspire

14 | www.fulbright.fi

Read the whole article: www.fulbright.fi/about-us/ blog/fulbright-finland-future-songwriting

JIANI ZENG

CURRENT GRANTEES

Empathic Product Development

W

hen was the last time a product made

turing, to perfection. On a more personal side, it

you think “what on earth were the

has been exciting to work with the many talented

engineers thinking when they made

researchers and professors at MIT, many of whom I

this?” I know mine was a self-checkout device in

expect to stay in touch with at various conferences

CVS Pharmacy, and I can recall being confused with

around the world. One benefit of working in a small

similar self-service desks in libraries and airports

research group has certainly been the close con-

as well. Such devices are good examples of design-

nection I’ve formed with my professor, which has

ers failing to consider the users’ experiences. In

already led to joint funding applications and other

fact, according to product development research,

academic Aalto-MIT matchmaking.

most new product launches fail due to people not accepting the new product. In my PhD research, I

Advice for Future Fulbrighters

investigate whether product developers’ empathic

For new Fulbrighters, I have two pieces of advice.

tendencies could partly predict the user experi-

First, don’t be shy about using the status of being

ences they create.

a Fulbrighter to capture attention. Using titles

My Fulbright exchange has certainly been an eye

doesn’t usually come naturally to Finns, but fight-

opener. At MIT, I’ve been surprised by the preva-

ing the habitual modesty helped me become room-

lence of product novelty as both a quality measure

mates with a Fulbright alumnus, and has scored me

and something that sparks people’s interest in

opportunities for elevator pitches with various pro-

general. Novelty has come up in various situations,

fessors and managers. Second, prepare for a bar-

ranging from water cooler conversations about

rage of curiosity towards Finland. During my stay, I

mobile phones or sports equipment to evaluation

found little need to proactively “sell” Finland since

rubrics for students’ product development proj-

I was often questioned about not only the political

ects. The phenomenon may partly be explained by

and education systems, but also things like energy

MIT’s history in producing successful consumer

production methods and building and infrastruc-

product innovations, such as Dropbox and Roomba,

ture standards. Overall, being a Fulbrighter has

whereas the roots of Finnish product development

greatly helped smooth out the bumps during my

lie more in honing large-scale products and pro-

exchange visit and provided ample opportunities

cesses, such as those in paper and board manufac-

for unexpected collaboration!

Antti Surma-aho 2018–2019 ASLA-Fulbright Pre-Doctoral Research Fellow Visiting student researcher at Massachusetts Institute of Technology MIT Photo: “I’ve been acting as a mentor in two engineering design classes at MIT. As part of the Introduction to Design class, the students were tasked to build a device that is triggered by cutting a string and that transports a balloon to a box 7 feet away. My role has been to teach the students creativity methods, and grade some of their assignments.” www.fulbright.fi/ pre-doctoral

www.fulbright.fi | 15

MATTHEW FREEDMAN

CURRENT GRANTEES

Combining Work and Family

Teaching Award and our first daughter was born.

We named her Lucía in honor of my grandmother, whose own grandparents had left Finland (Alavus and Lohtaja) to settle on the Oregon Coast nearly a century earlier. Traveling to the country of my Finnish ancestors with a tiny baby in our arms left my husband and me more vulnerable than we could have imagined. From saying goodbye to our family and friends, to finding a new balance in work and life,

“When I received the ASLA-Fulbright Graduate

to stepping into a country where little was known or

award to the United States, I was expecting my

familiar, navigating life as a Fulbright family has

first child”, says Sini Kantola, a University of Oulu

perhaps given us a real introduction to the art of

researcher on her Fulbright at the Aldo Leopold

finding our sisu (Finland’s version of grit),” Jane says.

Wilderness Research Institute in Montana. “I am

“Yet despite our humble attempts at parent-

so grateful to the Fulbright Finland Foundation

hood, it feels like Finland has welcomed us with

that I received the grant even though I was visi-

open arms and the Fulbright Finland staff and

bly pregnant during the interview. Together with

community have been a huge part of this. Likewise,

my husband we planned that I will take a 9-month

I know that the time we have been able to spend at

maternity leave after the birth and my husband will

home with our daughter is substantial compared to

take a paternity leave during my grant term in the

that of so many of my friends and colleagues back

U.S. if I get selected. And that’s how it happened – I

in Oregon. UNICEF’s former Executive Director,

received the grant and when our baby was 9 months

Ann M. Veneman once noted that, “Gender equal-

old, we moved to Missoula.”

ity and the well-being of children are inextricably

Sini says that paid maternity and paternity

linked. When women are empowered to lead full

leaves have woken a lot of amazement and admi-

and productive lives, children and families pros-

ration among the Americans she and her husband

per”. Spending just a few months in a Nordic coun-

have met in the United States. “Even though the

try has allowed us to experience a society where

Finnish system makes the father’s paternity leave

this notion is not just nodded to but embedded into

possible, still in 90 percent of Finnish families

daily life through comprehensive healthcare, uni-

it is the woman who stays at home with the baby

versal play-based preschool, and paid maternity

after the baby turns 9 months old. In many cases

and paternity leave.”

women still face discrimination in working life

“As a researcher and educator, I have witnessed

when they become pregnant in Finland. I’m happy

how such policies can impact a whole nation of

that the Fulbright Finland Foundation allowed me

children; their well-being and potential. I am

to combine work and family and to fulfill my dream

truly grateful to both the Fulbright Program and

of working abroad even with a small child in a way

the country of Finland for the generosity of spirit

that was good for the whole family,” Sini concludes.

you have demonstrated in empowering my family throughout our time here. To be able to share

The Nordic Theory of Motherhood

this prestigious experience with my daughter, and

“My husband and I received two of our life-long

know that Finland will not just be part of my story

dreams this year,” says Jane Weiss, a U.S. Fulbright

but part of hers brings me great joy. I will carry this

grantee at the University of Jyväskylä. “This year we

lesson forward in my continued work as an educator

moved to Finland for my Fulbright Distinguished

and advocate for children.”

16 | www.fulbright.fi

Sini Kantola 2018–2019 ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant Aldo Leopold Wilderness Research Institute, Montana www.fulbright.fi/ fin-graduate Jane Weiss 2018–2019 Fulbright Distinguished Award in Teaching Grant University of Jyväskylä www.fulbright.fi/us-teacher

When women are empowered to lead full and productive lives, children and families prosper.

CURRENT GRANTEES / ALUMNI

T

he first year of my two-year

ALYONA EVDOKIMOVA

Diving into International Security discussions between me and my peers.

master’s degree in the Security

It is indeed the conversations and

Studies Program at Georgetown

debates – with other students in the

University is now over, and looking back

classroom or over a beer, with professors

it has been many of the things I was hop-

during office hours, or academics in the

ing for it to be. It has brought new people

many D.C. think tank events – that are

and ideas to my life, and most of all, chal-

a very important part of the experience.

lenged me academically. Washington D.C.

They always push me to see a new point

has put me in a box-seat to observe inter-

of view, and to defend my own. During the

national politics and decision-making in

year I advocated for the Program to add

the U.S.

classes that address security problems

During the year I have learned about

that climate change brings about, and I did

a range of security issues. It started in

it successfully; next year, two new classes

the fall with classes on military analy-

on environmental security will be taught.

sis, theory of security, and violent non-

Advocacy for issues that are important is

state actors, and continued in the spring

a given here. It is what D.C. is all about.

Iida Tikka 2018–2019 ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant Georgetown University, D.C. ASLA-Fulbright Alumni Ambassadorial Award

with international security issues, Arctic

The international Fulbright community

I look forward to next year and all the

security and the geopolitics of energy

opens doors and connects us awardees

debates, new classes, friends and events it

and technology. The United States views

with academics from different fields. As a

will bring. As the city prepares for another

security in its signature way as the

Fulbright Finland awardee I truly get to be

presidential election, it is clear that there

superpower it is, and differences in point

a part of discussions that actually might

is no better place to dive into international

of view have led to interesting classroom

shape international policies one day.

security.

Fulbrighters Lead Cultural Institutes

E

milie Gardberg and Laura Hirvi

to Jyväskylä,” Laura says. “The time in

are both Fulbright Finland alumni

California also improved my networking

and also directors of Finnish Cul-

and presentation skills that are very

tural and Academic Institutes — Laura

useful in my current position,” she says.

in Berlin and Emilie in London. Looking

Emilie highlights the importance of

back, they both emphasize how signifi-

networks she made in the U.S. “As a Ful-

cantly being a Fulbright grantee has con-

bright fellow I got to be a part of a very

tributed to their success in their careers.

international, high profile academic group.

Emilie was the first student from

The academic resources of Columbia Uni-

Finland accepted in the prestigious Arts

versity are enormous and the reputation

Management program in Columbia Uni-

world class, which further enhanced my

versity. She completed her master’s and

opportunities to stand out in the competi-

two internships, one at the Metropolitan

tive arts field later on. My Fulbright expe-

Opera and one at Jazz at Lincoln Center

rience carries me forward daily.”

Emilie Gardberg Director of the Finnish Institute in London ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant 2006–2007 Columbia University Laura Hirvi Director of the Finnish Institute in Germany ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant 2009–2010 UC Santa Barbara in California

touring department, gaining valuable

Emilie and Laura encourage young

work experience. “My studies and work

Finns to apply for a Fulbright grant even

in the U.S. greatly enhanced my career

if the application process would seem

that we have institutions such as Ful-

opportunities later on. I would not have

time consuming. “It is extremely valu-

bright that train people’s intercultural

been able to gain the same vast and varied

able to get international experience, very

skills,” Laura says.

experience in the arts in Finland as I was

few fields can succeed on simply domestic

able to in New York,” Emilie says.

knowledge,” Emilie says.

“We need to value these opportunities and make sure also future generations

For Laura the Fulbright year was

Both Laura and Emilie emphasize the

crucial for the development of academic

importance of enhancing the dialogue

have opportunities to get valuable inter-

skills and for growing her academic

across national borders. “Communication

networks. “The year eventually led to

and dialogue between people do not hap-

Read the full interview online at

a visit by the renowned anthropologist

pen always automatically and as smoothly

www.fulbright.fi/about-us/blog/

Professor George Marcus from UC Irvine

as we would wish. It is thus very important

fulbrighters-lead-cultural-institutes

national experience,” Emilie concludes.

www.fulbright.fi | 17

Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann, Head of International Personal Bank U.S. at Citigroup and former President of Citibank California, talks about her experience as a Fulbright Fellow in Finland, her passion for business and leadership, and her cross-cultural outlook on life.

Leadership and Learning

Across Cultures Text LOUISA GAIRN

Rebecca L. MacieiraKaufmann U.S. Fulbright Fellow 1986–1987 University of Helsinki

Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann has made a success-

advised by Henri Broms, an expert in semiotics

ful career in business and banking, and says that the

and business, at the Helsinki School of Economics.

core of her work and values is caring about people.

Rebecca recalls that although she knew she wanted

Among her many passions, she highlights leader­

to work on semiotics and international media

ship and intercultural learning as central to her own

related to Finland, she needed to define a specific

life and professional development. “I’ve loved lan-

topic. “But then in April of that year, the Chernobyl

guages and culture since I was a young kid. I went

disaster happened, and that made up my mind. I

to Chinese bilingual school, and I’ve studied nine

analyzed news coverage of Chernobyl, comparing

languages over the years. By the time I had my first

The International Herald Tribune with the Helsingin

full-time job I’d worked in five different countries.”

Sanomat, and also with Russian coverage in Pravda.

This passion for intercultural learning led

I was excited to look at both east and west news

Rebecca to seek out international opportunities

coverage – my big area of interest was how meaning

while still an undergraduate at Brown Univer-

is constructed.”

sity. Rebecca was studying Semiotics, and already

“It was a very deep learning year, and wonderful

planning a future career in business. She spent her

to stay focused on just one or two topics for a whole

summer vacations working abroad, first at Renault

year. I got to spend time with Finnish journalists

in Paris, and then at ITT in Helsinki. “I was so in

and travel with them, as the Helsingin Sanomat

love with Finland. I’d always wanted to go to busi-

invited me on a journalism trip to Estonia. I got to

ness school after college, but I also wanted to go

work on a book with Henri Broms, editing Semiotics

back to Finland. I was very fortunate. I got into

of Management. It was a wonderful year, very rich,

Stanford Business School and was awarded a Ful-

very intellectually exciting, and I loved getting to

bright scholarship to Finland at the same time.”

know the Finnish culture better.”

A Year of Intercultural Learning

ters,” she recalls. “It was -30 degrees celsius, and

Deferring business school for one year, Rebecca

trains were freezing to the tracks, you couldn’t wait

found the perfect fit for her research interests in

outside for the bus. I learned how to drive on black

Finland, hosted by the University of Helsinki and

ice, and when you could go walking out on the Gulf

“I think I lived there in one of the coldest win-

18 | www.fulbright.fi

ALUMNI IN FOCUS of Finland, on the frozen sea. I put my whole house

Rebecca adds that taking on a leadership role,

in Finnish, covered in little yellow notes, to learn

listening to and encouraging others, are some of

vocabulary. I learned about how Finnish society

the most rewarding aspects of her job. In addition

operates, how things are based on trust.”

to her responsibilities at Citibank, she is active in

Rebecca’s connection with Finland lives on in

the wider community, and often gives presenta-

more personal ways. “I’m an ambassador now for

tions at business schools and other institutions on

Finland here in the U.S.,” she laughs. “If anyone has

leadership, team-building, and business transfor-

visited me at home, they’ve probably had karjalan­

mation. Through both her work and community

piirakka or other Finnish food. I took my kids to

activities, she has been recognized as an important

Moomin Land when they were little. We went to Fin-

role model for women in business, and has received

land again for fun last summer. My daughter’s already

a number of awards, including being named the

been to Finland three times and she’s only 19.”

2010 Financial Woman of the Year by the Financial Women’s Association of San Francisco.

Building a Successful Career

“When I went to business school, I would say

On completing her Fulbright scholarship year,

about a third of my class were women, and when

Rebecca took up her place in Stanford Business

I got into executive-level management, perhaps

School. “I moved straight from Helsinki to Palo

18–20% of executives were women. Now I would

Alto. What a contrast! I even had a pool in my

say there are many more women, and it feels like

apartment building. I would say I came back with

there’s much more parity compared to when I

a greater knowledge of the world, of both cultural

started. Before, women in senior roles didn’t nec-

differences and similarities. Business school is very

essarily have children, but now many do. I think

international, so that helped me a lot. I also had a

that now those who want to have kids are able to

sense of confidence, as I’d already had my research

balance that with their career.”

published a couple of times.”

Rebecca believes young women should feel

After completing her studies, Rebecca con-

empowered to pursue careers in business and

tinued working abroad, including a job in Hong

finance, and that a Fulbright scholarship offers

Kong, followed by three years in London working

a valuable opportunity to develop one’s profes-

in international strategy consulting. “I was always

sional experience and outlook on life. “My advice

looking for new cultures, new places to go. This

is to just go for it, because if you don’t it won’t hap-

time though, I wanted to work in English. It was

pen. Whether it’s your job, your grant, or moving

a little ironic that I wanted to work in English but

abroad, you have to try, so don’t give up. I think a

because of my language skills I was also assigned to

lot of people might be naysayers, but there are a

work with Finnish and French clients!” she laughs.

lot of people who are yaysayers! When you have a

On returning to the U.S., Rebecca decided to

challenge, listen to the positive people in your life.

focus on business management. She moved into

But above all believe in yourself, tell yourself you

the financial services sector, where she has built

can do it.”

Young women should feel empowered to pursue careers in business and finance.

I’m an ambassador now for Finland here in the U.S.

up a highly successful career over 25 years, including as CEO of Banamex USA, overseeing the U.S.

Importance of Investing in Fulbright

banking operations of Grupo Financiero Banamex,

“John F. Kennedy said about the Fulbright program

the second-largest bank in Mexico. She is now one

that it may be the best example of ‘beating swords

of Citibank’s most successful female executives,

into ploughshares, of having some benefit come to

formerly President of Citibank California and now

humanity out of the destruction of war’. It fosters

Head of Citibank’s International Personal Bank.

mutual understanding between people of the U.S. and people of different countries. It’s an amazing

Taking on New Challenges

program; it’s not political, it’s so open and broad.

“All of it has been tough, nothing is easy! But I

The whole aim is to bring people together.”

think I look for challenge, and for me, I’m in the

Rebecca argues for the importance of continuing

perfect job. Managing people, being managed by

to fund and invest in the Fulbright program, both in

people, working with regulators, meeting client

the U.S. and in Finland. “It is a way, one by one, to

needs, keeping employees motivated, getting the

have that cross-border, cross-cultural understand-

best value for customers… it’s a lot of juggling, a lot

ing. It’s so different from what you can learn about

of demand. Working with others is my greatest joy

another culture by reading the news or watching a

and greatest reward, as my colleagues become my

movie. When you live for a year abroad it makes you

family.”

more of a global citizen. There are very few things

“I love people, and what I love about the finan-

in this world that are not crossing boundaries all

cial service industry, is that money creates value

the time, but it’s so valuable to understand that

for people. It’s really about what people do with

all places have their local traditions, their local

their money, they save to buy a home, to create

knowledge, and not everything is like how we see

a small business, to retire, to give money back to

it. You need to learn to see things from a local’s eye.

society... everyday we’re helping people live their

I think it’s priceless. It gives you a window into dif-

lives and their own values. That’s why I get up in

ferent interpretations, and we all need more of that

the morning.”

in the world.”

www.fulbright.fi | 19

ASLA-FULBRIGHT ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Do you want to invite the Fulbright alumni and grantees to visit your institution?

Contact the Association if you are interested in inviting Fulbright grantees and alumni to your home organization to hear more about your work! The visits provide your organization an opportunity to create linkages and networks with the current U.S. Fulbright grantees and the Finnish Fulbright alumni. alumni@fulbright.fi

Become a member: www.fulbright.fi/ asla-fulbright-alumniassociation/joinassociation

Alumni Association Visits Nuutajärvi Glass Village Text INARI AHOKAS In early May members of the ASLA-Fulbright Alumni Association and current U.S. Fulbrighters headed to Nuutajärvi to visit the Glass village and to learn more about the village’s rich history and glass blowing.

Local glass artist Jenni Sorsa introduced the group to the Design Museum Nuutajärvi. The group visited the Glass Museum designed by Kaj Franck, 1955 Fulbright Finland grantee.

Thanks to Jenni Sorsa and Jonathan Capps, a 2018-2019 U.S. Fulbright Fellow and glass artist, the group got to see multiple different glass artists,

Nuutajärvi Glass Village’s summer exhibition Jonathan Capps and Nuutajärvi Gallery Co-op worked together in producing the 2019 summer exhibition. Each of the 30 featured artists has collaborated with Capps during his Fulbright term, for example producing their artwork or planning how to exhibit it.

The exhibition is open until September 1, 2019.

their stores and art pieces as well as a blacksmiths’ workshop. A close up demo on glass blowing by Jonathan concluded the special trip.

ASLA-Fulbright Alumni Association Board 2019–2020 President Kirsi Cheas Postdoctoral Researcher John Morton Center for North American Studies, University of Turku ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant 2013–2014 Vice-President Magnus Backström Chief Strategist Elite Asset Management Finnish Fulbright Graduate Student 1981–1982 20 | www.fulbright.fi

Inari Ahokas Program Assistant Fulbright Finland Foundation Study of the U.S. Institutes for Student Leaders from Europe on Social Entrepreneurship 2016–2017

Antti Makkonen Senior Specialist, Banking & Finance Legislation Finnish Ministry of Finance, Financial Markets Department ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant 2014–2015

Petra Kuivala Junior Researcher University of Helsinki ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant 2016–2017

Meri-Katriina Pyhäranta Senior Adviser The Finnish Energy Authority ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant 2016–2017

Heikki Saxén Bioethics Researcher, Ph.D., Tampere University; Chairman of the Board at the Finnish Institute of Bioethics ASLA-Fulbright Pre-Doctoral Research Fellows 2014–2015 and Fulbright Finland Travel Grant for Research Collaboration 2019

Miika Vähämaa Researcher University of Helsinki ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grant 2010–2011

FRIENDS OF FULBRIGHT FINLAND

U.S. Alumni Snapshots Active members of the Friends of Fulbright Finland have brought alumni together to strengthen the network. During the month of May alone, there were three events!

Madison, WI From the left: Thomas Dubois, Jukka Isomaa, Meri Luoma, Ilona Härmävaara, Anssi Peräkylä, Doug Maynard, and Hilary-Joy Virtanen.

Alumni of the Finnish Fulbright program met up for conversation and information exchange about Friends of Fulbright Finland alumni activities from Doug Maynard, FoFF Council member and 2006 scholar to University of Helsinki.

Marlene Broemer (2000 Fulbrighter at University of Helsinki) organized this opportunity around the schedule of the annual meeting of the Society for the Advancement of Scandinavian Study held in Madison, Wisconsin. Andrew K. Nestingen (Fulbrighter in 1996 to the University of Helsinki) was elected SASS Vice President.

Anchorage, AK Friends of Fulbright Finland Alumni Council member, Joan Kluwe (1999 U.S. Fulbright Fellow to the Finnish Forest Research Institute in Rovaniemi) welcomed to her home in Anchorage, Alaska members of the second cohort of the Fulbright Arctic Initiative grants program. Jon Petter Stoor

dun, Josée Lavoie Jon Petter Stoor, Elena Gla

(from Sweden, Sami Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Mental Health), Elena Gladun (from Russia, Tyumen State University, Law), Josée Lavoie (from Canada, University of Manitoba, Community Health), all of whom are spending some weeks in Anchorage and Fairbanks conducting the exchange portion of their Fulbright research project, met together for conversation and a table of Alaskan taste treats. Honorary Consul for Finland in Alaska, Hanna Eklund, joined the group as well.

Washington, D.C. Kay J. Kohl, 2010 Fulbright scholar invited the Fulbright Finland team and alumni to luncheon in her home in Washington, D.C. Discussion was free flowing and eventually led to the proposal for an exciting, new opportunity for American alumni. The project will be discussed and reviewed over the coming months. Stay tuned! The Foundation team was visiting Washington in order to participate in the dual

From left to right: Terhi Mölsä, Kay Kohl, Emilia Holopainen, Bill Eaton, Carol Tenopir, Gerald Lundeen, Maija Kettunen, Mike Loovis, and Suzanne Louis (in the front).

celebration of the 70th ASLA-Fulbright anniversary and the centenary of Finnish-American Diplomatic Relations, hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Finland. (See page 10 for more details.)

www.fulbright.fi | 21

FULBRIGHT FINLAND FOUNDATION / FULBRIGHT SUOMI -SÄÄTIÖ

Piia Björn

David Yoken

Professor Piia Björn to Chair Fulbright Finland Piia Björn, Professor of Special Education at University of Eastern Finland

Recognition for Distinguished Service

was elected Chair of the Fulbright Finland Foundation Board of Directors

Fulbright Finland Foundation CEO Terhi Mölsä

for the two-year term beginning in January 2019. She previously served as

(center) has been awarded Knight of the Order of the

the Vice-Chair of the Board. Professor Björn is an ASLA-Fulbright alumna.

Lion of Finland, an honor conferred upon citizens

The new Vice-Chair of the Board is David Yoken, Senior Music Lecturer

who have distinguished themselves in the service

at the Arts Academy of Turku University of Applied Sciences. He, too, is a

of Finland. Recipients are decided by the President

Fulbright alum.

of the Republic of Finland. Terhi Mölsä pictured

The Fulbright Finland Foundation conveys a sincere thank you to

with Director General Tapio Kosunen and Direc-

Hannu Seristö, Vice President for External Relations at Aalto University,

tor Birgitta Vuorinen from the Finnish Ministry

for his valuable service on the Board. Seristö concluded his term on the

of Education and Culture.

Board in May. More about the decorations of the Order of More about the Foundation and its Board of Directors at:

the Lion of Finland and their history:

www.fulbright.fi/about-us/board-directors

www.ritarikunnat.fi/index.php/en/

Kamalan ihana Amerikka?

Osallistu keskusteluun!

SuomiAreena Pori 19.7.2019

Fulbright Finland Foundation is part of the global network of over 160 countries participating in the Fulbright Program.

Fulbright Finland Foundation is a Generation Study Abroad Commitment Partner.

Fulbright Finland Foundation is part of the worldwide EducationUSA network of over 400 advising centers.

FULBRIGHT FINLAND NEWS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Terhi Mölsä EDITORS Maija Kettunen (Managing Editor), Suzanne Louis DESIGN AND LAYOUT Tanja Mitchell, Grafee EDITING OFFICE Fulbright Finland Foundation, Hakaniemenranta 6, FI-00530 Helsinki, FINLAND TEL. +358 44 5535 286 E-MAIL office@fulbright.fi ISSN 2489-2149 (print) ISSN 2489-2157 (online) COVER Scandia White 200 g/m² PAPER Scandia White 115 g/m² PRINT CIRCULATION 800 PRINTED BY Erweko Oy ONLINE www.fulbright.fi/fulbright-finland-news-magazine Fulbright Finland News on Fulbright Suomi -säätiön sidosryhmälehti, joka ilmestyy kaksi kertaa vuodessa painettuna ja verkkoversiona. Artikkeleissa ilmaistut mielipiteet ovat kirjoittajien omia. Aineisto vapaasti lainattavissa, lähde mainittava. // Fulbright Finland News is a biannual magazine published by the Fulbright Finland Foundation in print and online. Opinions expressed by authors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Fulbright Finland. Reproduction allowed, source must be cited. // While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the material in this publication, Fulbright Finland does not accept liability for any errors or omissions.

EDITORIAL COUNCIL Kirsi Cheas, Postdoctoral Researcher, John Morton Center for North American Studies, University of Turku; Janne Hokkanen, Director for Study and International Affairs, Lappeenranta University of Technology; Joan Kluwe, Senior Planner, URS Corporation; Helena Liikanen-Renger, Press Counselor, Embassy of Finland, Washington D.C.; Mike Loovis, Professor Emeritus, Cleveland State University; Ilja Orre, Consultant, Bain & Company; David Yoken, Senior Music Lecturer, Turku University of Applied Sciences.

22 | www.fulbright.fi

FULBRIGHT FINLAND FOUNDATION

THE FULBRIGHT FINLAND FOUNDATION is an independent not-for-profit organization based in Helsinki, Finland.

Its purpose is to promote a wider exchange of knowledge and professional talents through educational contacts between Finland and the United States.

The Foundation collaborates with a range of government, foundation, university and corporate partners on both sides of the Atlantic to design and manage study and research scholarships, leadership development programs and internationalization services.

Finland-America Educational Trust Fund The Fulbright Finland Foundation is financially supported by the Finland-America Educational Trust Fund.

Board of Directors

Fulbright Finland Foundation’s

Vision

is to empower the minds that will find global solutions to tomorrow’s challenges by fostering academic and professional expertise and excellence in leadership.

Fulbright Finland Foundation Board of Directors Honorary Chair: Ambassador of the United States to Finland Robert Pence

Timo Korkeamäki Professor of Finance Hanken School of Economics

Finnish Members:

American Members:

Piia Björn Professor, Special Education University of Eastern Finland Chair

T.J. Grubisha Counselor for Press and Cultural Affairs American Embassy

Kirsimarja Blomqvist Professor for Knowledge Management, School of Business and Management, Lappeenranta University of Technology LUT

Itonde A. Kakoma Programme Director Leadership team Crisis Management Initiative CMI

Ethan Tabor Deputy Counselor for Press and Cultural Affairs American Embassy David Yoken Senior Music Lecturer Arts Academy, Turku University of Applied Sciences Vice-Chair Ex-officio: Terhi Mölsä Chief Executive Officer Fulbright Finland Foundation

Finnish Members: Jouni Mölsä Director General of Communications, Department for Communications and Culture, Ministry for Foreign Affairs Chair Jaana Palojärvi Head of International Relations Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture

Fulbright Finland Foundation Office Office: 044 5535 286, e-mails: firstname.lastname@fulbright.fi

American Members:

b Inari Ahokas Ohjelma-avustaja Program Assistant (temp.)

044 700 6170

Donna Welton Chargé d’Affaires American Embassy Vice-Chair

b Pia Arola Johdon assistentti Executive Assistant 044 5535 278

T.J. Grubisha Counselor for Press and Cultural Affairs American Embassy

b Emilia Holopainen Ohjelmakoordinaattori Program Coordinator 044 7035 284

Director General / Säätiön asiamies:

b Emmi Jelekäinen Ohjelmakoordinaattori Program Coordinator 044 5535 275

Terhi Mölsä Chief Executive Officer Fulbright Finland Foundation

b Maija Kettunen Viestintä- ja tapahtuma­ koordinaattori Communication and Events Coordinator 044 5535 277

b Mirka McIntire Ohjelmapäällikkö, Koulutus- ja opettajavaihto Manager, Teacher Exchange and Education Programs 044 5535 269

b Karoliina Kokko Vastaava ohjelmapäällikkö Senior Program Manager 044 5535 268

b Mihkel Vaim Ohjelma-avustaja Program Assistant (temp.)

044 734 2939

b Suzanne Louis Projektikonsultti (osa-aikainen) Project Consultant (part-time)

b Terhi Mölsä Toimitusjohtaja Chief Executive Officer 050 570 5498

www.fulbright.fi | 23

FULBRIGHT FINLAND FOUNDATION

Fulbright Finland Foundation Hakaniemenranta 6 FI-00530 HELSINKI FINLAND

Calendar

August

May

14.5.

Pre-Departure Orientation and Fulbright Award Ceremony for Fulbright Finland Grantees to the U.S. 26.5.

2020–2021 Application deadline: ASLA-Fulbright Graduate Grants Fulbright-Technology Industries of Finland Grants

June

19.–22.8.

Arrival Orientation for U.S. Fulbright Grantees 21.8.

ASLA-Fulbright Alumni Association Welcome Event, Helsinki

October

17.6.

Fulbright Finland Foundation Board Meeting

July 1.–21.7.

Fulbright Finland Office Closed 19.7.

Fulbright Finland Foundation at SuomiAreena, Pori

September 16.9.

2020–2021 Application deadline: Fulbright U.S. Scholar Awards for Finland 24.–27.9.

Fulbright Finland Foundation at EAIE Conference, Helsinki Fulbright Finland Foundation Board Meeting

11.–12.10.

27th American Voices Seminar Join us in Turku to hear about various aspects of American life, culture, history and society through the experiences of U.S. Fulbright grantees in Finland. The seminar is organized by the Fulbright Finland Foundation in cooperation with the University of Turku North American Studies Program and the John Morton Center.

The event is open to the public and free of charge. Welcome!

www.fulbright.fi Ífulbrightfin Úfulbrightfinland Îfulbright finland