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Finlandia Fridays Web Series

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Finlandia Fridays is a great way for students, employees and the community to find out about exciting happenings around campus and in the Upper Peninsula. Hosted by Jordan Shawhan and FinnU’s Communications Department, Finlandia Fridays is an entertaining way to stay up to date with school events, stimulating discussions and student stories. These 5-10 minute excerpts will surely brighten your day and keep you in the FinnU loop.

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Finlandia Fridays Staff

Jordan Shawhan
Jordan ShawhanDirector of Marketing & CommunicationsFinlandia UniversityJordan.Shawhan@finlandia.edu-DISABLED(906) 487-7348

Finlandia Fridays Archive

Episodes of Finlandia Friday


  • Finlandia University will not enroll students for the 2023-2024 academic year

    Finlandia Logo White Background

    On Thursday, March 2, Finlandia University’s Board of Trustees announced that Finlandia will not enroll students for the 2023-2024 academic year. The decision follows months of continuous efforts to find pathways for the University to continue its mission.

    “I am deeply saddened to announce that due to a combination of demographic changes, with fewer high school graduates available, a steep decrease in interest in going to college among those graduates, and an unbearable debt load, Finlandia’s Board of Trustees met and [...]


  • Kalevalathon 2023: An ‘epic’ discussion with Dr. Hilary-Joy Virtanen

    Kalevalathon 2023 Facebook Cover

    Click here to view event

    Finlandia Fridays is a great way for students, employees and the community to find out about exciting happenings around campus and in the Upper Peninsula. Hosted by Finlandia University’s Communications Department, Finlandia Fridays is an entertaining way to stay up to date with school events, stimulating discussions and student stories. 

    In this week’s episode, Dr. Hilary-Joy Virtanen joins the show to discuss an exciting upcoming event, Kalevalathon. Happening on Tuesday, February 28, this [...]


  • Cowbell Weekend: Men’s Hockey Coach Joe Burcar talks upcoming series on Finlandia Fridays

    Cowbell Weekend

    February 3 & 4 at Houghton County Ice Arena

    In this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays, Head DIII Hockey Coach Joe Burcar sits down with host Jordan Shawhan to discuss this weekend’s upcoming series against the Marian University Sabres. It’s Cowbell Weekend, and the Lions are looking to pack the house.

    “There’s a lot of young people in town. You’ve got kids playing hockey, there’s a lot of parents in town, and we’re looking forward to getting them at our rink,” [...]


  • Diversity Dinner is back!

    Diversity Dinner 2023 Poster

    Join us February 6-10 at Finlandia Hall Cafe as we celebrate the unique backgrounds of Finlandia’s community with Diversity Dinner!

    CLICK HERE TO SEE MENU

    All are welcome to Diversity Dinner Week 2023! From 4:30 to 7:00 p.m., February 6-10, Finlandia’s Dining Services will be serving up traditional foods from around the world. Dinners are free for Finlandia University students with a meal plan and $10 for everyone else. Proceeds will be used by Finlandia’s Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion [...]


  • Traveling abroad with Finlandia’s criminal justice program

    Comparative Justice course group photo during summer trip to Finland

    Criminal justice majors have the opportunity to travel abroad to learn more about other justice systems from around the world. From Finland to the former Soviet Union, you are introduced to how social justice is viewed in a different context.

    Following a recent video release highlighting the criminal justice program’s most recent trip, Dr. Richard Gee sits down with the Finlandia Fridays podcast to talk about what opportunities the group had to experience.

    This year’s trip included 14 days of travel [...]


  • Revamped & Refocused: Broadening the scope of a criminal justice program

    Police Cap and Mask

    Finlandia Fridays kicks off 2023 in two-part criminal justice series with Dr. Richard Gee

    Graduates of the Finlandia University Criminal Justice program are sprinkled throughout all layers of the criminal justice system, pursuing careers in safety and security, social work, law, federal service and the police force.

    Ahead of next week’s video release of FinnU’s 2022 Comparative Criminal Justice course trip to Europe, in this episode, Dr. Richard Gee sits down with Finlandia Fridays podcast for part one of [...]


  • Finlandia Podcast Network joins Spotify

    Finlandia Podcast Network

    Finlandia Fridays, Voices on Vocation podcasts to be featured on new platform

    As another fall semester concludes, the Finlandia Podcast Network sets its sights on what’s to come in the new year. Currently available on Soundcloud, Apple Podcasts and TuneIn, the Finlandia Podcast Network is excited to announce that Spotify will become the latest addition to the program’s list of available streaming services.

    The network’s featured series, Finlandia Fridays, will kick off the Spring 2023 line-up with programming on January [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays explore exclusive Ponsse internship for FinnU students

    ISB Dean Kevin Manninen with busines student

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, marketing and management professor Kevin Manninen stopped by to talk about Finlandia’s International School of Business (ISB) and an upcoming internship opportunity for Finlandia students.

    Following an announcement earlier this week, the Ponsse Einari Vidgrén Foundation Internship application period is now open. The internship, exclusive to Finlandia students, features two to three weeks each spent at Ponsse North America in Rhinelander, Wisconsin and Ponsse Plc headquarters in Vieremä, Finland, in May and June 2023.

    With [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays: 2023 Scholarship Packages

    Anthony Schwass

    In last week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays, Dean of Enrollment Anthony Schwass joined the show to discuss FinnU’s all-new Scholarship Calculator. In part two of this featured series, Schwass dives deep into the new scholarship packages offered at Finlandia and what they will provide incoming students.

    “It is simply streamlined now. No longer are scholarships not stackable with each other, if you qualify for a scholarship, you get it, along with all of your other scholarships. Plain and simple,” Schwass [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays: The Scholarship Calculator

    Scholarship Calculator Button

    Understanding the cost of a college education should be easy. So, here to introduce Finlandia’s all-new Scholarship Calculator is Dean of Enrollment Anthony Schwass.

    New to Fall 2022, Finlandia’s Scholarship Calculator provides students with their anticipated scholarship offerings. Schwass explains that in less than a minute, the calculator provides students with their base scholarship amount, and that’s before stacking any Scholarship Add-Ons. All this comes before Federal and State Aid, which you can qualify for after filing your FAFSA [...]


  • Student Spotlight: Senior Marketing & Graphic Design student Madelyn Waterman

    Madelyn Waterman

    Finlandia Lions Women’s Soccer is on its way to conference playoffs. Patrons of Finlandia Athletics can donate and learn more about the Women’s Soccer fundraiser which runs through Nov. 3, by visiting here.

    Joining Finlandia Fridays this week is senior Lions’ Soccer player Madelyn Waterman, who sits down with host Jordan Shawhan for an exciting conversation about FinnU’s Marketing and Graphic Design programs, why she decided to attend Finlandia and what she’s looking forward to most in her final year.

    Like [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays explore PTA Program

    PTA Joint Mobility Class 2022

    The need for skilled rehabilitation services is at an all-time high. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare-related jobs are projected to grow faster than the average for jobs in all fields over the next 10 years. 

    Offering the only Physical Therapist Assistant program in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Finlandia University is here to prepare students for meaningful and rewarding careers in physical therapy. With a fully equipped lab, and boasting a 6:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Finlandia’s PTA program focuses [...]


  • ‘Dr. Cass’ shines spotlight on arts, sciences & design programs

    Dr. Cassandra Hill

    With her first semester at Finlandia halfway complete, Dr. Cassandra Hill stopped by the set of Finlandia Fridays this week for an exciting conversation. Hill, dean of Finlandia’s Suomi College of Arts & Sciences and interim dean of the International School of Art & Design, discusses several topics, including what brought her to Finlandia and her innovative vision for the arts, sciences and design programs at FinnU.

    While the Keweenaw Peninsula and its many outdoor recreational opportunities may undoubtedly add to [...]


  • Focusing on Mental Health Awareness Week, Oct. 2 – 8

    Mental Health Awareness Week Fall 2022

    Sabrina Loven-Gulick joins Finlandia Fridays this week to share news of an upcoming on-campus initiative, Mental Health Awareness Week, happening Sunday, October 2, through Saturday, October 8.

    Loven-Gulick, a personal counselor and academic coach for Trio Student Support Services (SSS) at Finlandia University, kicks things off by sharing insight into a few TRIO SSS topics, such as eligibility, participation, and the types of things she does for her role.

    “When you hear personal counseling, it’s therapy. It’s me being here for the [...]


  • Student Senate invites ideas for Mannerheim Central project

    Allison Cooper

    Student Senate President Allison Cooper visited Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about a few upcoming initiatives the group has planned, including the transformation of Mannerheim Central. 

    Cooper shared that on the next two upcoming Tuesdays, September 20 and September 27, Student Senate will be stationed outside Finlandia Hall Café from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to hear student opinions on what they would like to see done with the open space in Mannerheim Central. 

    “It’s important for students to give us [...]


  • Creating Community: Hilterbrand shares vision on Finlandia Fridays

    Orientation 2022 with Alex Hilterbrand

    Hilterbrand, joined by Riku F. Lion and members of the Lions Football Team at New Student Move-In Day 2022.

    In this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays, Director of Student Engagement and interim Residence Life Coordinator, Alex Hilterbrand, joins the show to talk about student engagement, upcoming campus events, and FinnU clubs and organizations.

    “My goal is to create this real sense of community, this real sense of vibrancy, this real sense of identity here at Finlandia, and do that by [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays Season 7 Premiere with President Tim Pinnow

    Timothy Pinnow

    Welcome back to Finlandia Fridays!

    In this Season 7 premiere episode, Finlandia’s new president, Tim Pinnow, joins the show for an exciting conversation with host Jordan Shawhan. The pair discuss a variety of topics including Pinnow’s vision for Finlandia and his excitement for the fall semester to begin.

    “I hope that Finlandia University continues to be a small university in the middle of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that speaks to students’ needs; that offers students an opportunity to really get to know [...]


  • Paver joins FinnU as new Social Media Specialist

    Deb Paver Headshot Photo

    Deb Paver has joined Finlandia’s Marketing & Communications Department as the University’s new Social Media Specialist. While higher education is a fresh industry for her, marketing and social media have been her realm of work for the past five years. Along with previous photo, design and marketing freelance work, Paver most recently served as marketing manager for a brewery near her hometown of Grand Rapids.

    She lived alongside the Flying Dutchmen at Hope College while studying for her undergrad, receiving a [...]


  • Nursing Major, Arty Puntus, named 2022 Student Representative

    Artsiom Arty Puntus

    With graduation less than a month away, the Class of 2022 Student Representative, Arty Puntus, caught up with host Jordan Shawhan to talk about his time at Finlandia. Puntus, originally from Minsk, Belarus, will be earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

    An active member of Finlandia’s student leadership and nursing programs, Puntus has served as Student Senate President since 2020, a Student Ambassador with Finlandia Admissions, an ALD Honors Society Member, the V.P. of FinnU’s [...]


  • The International Student Experience with Arty Puntus

    Artsiom Arty Puntus

    Senior nursing major Arty Puntus is an international student from Belarus that currently serves as Finlandia University’s Student Senate President, a Student Ambassador with the Admissions Office, ALD Honors Society Member, the V.P. of FinnU’s Student Nurses Association and an Orientation Leader. Pausing his busy schedule for a few moments of reflection, Puntus joins Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about his journey as an international student at Finlandia, why he chose FinnU, his experience in the [...]


  • Student Nurses Association president presents 20th annual benefit for Omega House

    Haley Wright SNA Blood Drive

    Finlandia University’s Student Nurses Association (FUSNA) is celebrating its 20th annual benefit for Omega House on April 2. What began in 2002 as a spaghetti dinner has become one of the most popular pancake breakfasts in the Western U.P.

    On this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays, senior nursing student and Student Nurses Association president Haley Wright joins the show to talk about the upcoming benefit breakfast that has raised more than $25,000 for Omega House.

    “They are a hospice house, so people [...]


  • Skijoring and Scholarships with Kat Hanson

    Kat Hanson

    The Lake Effect Scholarship is here!

    This week, Enrollment Counselor Kat Hanson skijors by the Finlandia Fridays set to talk with host Jordan Shawhan about the new Lake Effect Scholarship, which allows eligible commuting and on-campus living students to enjoy the benefits of cost-sharing education. Commuting students will have tuition reduced to $2,500 per year, earning their full bachelor’s degree for $10,000.

    “For students who want to live on campus, they pay a little bit extra in room and [...]


  • Student PTA Club President presents March 12 fundraiser Soup for Soles

    PTA Club Soup for Soles

    In this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays, Student PTA Club President Tabin Filizetti joins the show to talk about Soup for Soles. The PTA Club fundraiser, being held tomorrow, March 12 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Finnish American Heritage Center, aims to provide shoes to local children in need and donate proceeds to the national non-profit organization Shoes4Kids.

    “We’re selling tickets right now or you can buy tickets at the door,” Filizetti said. “Soup for Soles is the [...]


  • FinnU Shark Day hosting local students for entrepreneurship competition

    Shark Day Logo Transparent

    On this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays, Education Partner Manager and Dual Enrollment Advisor Lauren Huested joins the show to talk about FinnU Shark Day. A play on the show Shark Tank, the March 9 event focuses on teaching students in their junior and senior years about entrepreneurship, creativity, working in a team and public speaking skills. The final winners will be awarded a $2,500 scholarship to attend Finlandia to be used in the fall of 2022 [...]


  • Investment Lab offers new opportunities for FinnU students

    Anders Saarela & Michael Stuber-1

    Finlandia’s all-new investment lab is putting the call out for additional members. In this week’s episode, FinnU International School of Business senior Accounting students Anders Saarela and Michael Stuber join the show to talk about their experience in the new student organization.

    “I believe it was October of last semester when it first got initiated. It’s for any Finlandia students and staff that are interested in attending,” Saarela said. “Whether you’re a nursing major, art major, business major, [...]


  • You are not Alone: Mental Health Awareness Week with Pastor Sarah Semmler Smith

    Mental Health Awareness Events

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, Campus Pastor Sarah Semmler Smith sits down with the team to talk about the upcoming Mental Health Awareness week happening on campus from Feb. 6 – 12. Finlandia Lions Women’s Basketball squad will be kicking off the week of events at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 6 with a “green out” in the gym to raise awareness of mental health and the importance of support.

    “My call here as a pastor is really to [...]


  • Meet Luke Morrill, V.P. of Student Development and Dean of Students

    luke-morrill-headshot

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, Luke Morrill, FinnU’s V.P. of Student Development and Dean of Students, talks with host Jordan Shawhan about his new role at the university. Luke joins FinnU after serving as Dean of Students and V.P. for Student Affairs at the University of the Ozarks, AR.

    Morrill’s role provides leadership and guidance to areas that mainly fall outside of the classroom such as student life, policies, dining services, campus security and student engagement.

    “Our newest edition to [...]


  • MLK Day of Service postponed

    mlk day of service

    MLK Day of Service at Finlandia University is a day to honor Martin Luther King, Jr. through community service and volunteering. This year, out of an abundance of caution due to COVID-19, MLK Day activities originally scheduled for Monday, Jan. 17 have been postponed. Martin Luther King Day will still be a day of observance and classes will be suspended for the day.

    Before the announcement, Finlandia Fridays met with Assistant Professor of Management and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee member [...]


  • Enrollment Counselor Jason Dart introduces Early Bird Scholarship on Finlandia Fridays

    Jason dart admissions

    Eager to talk about the new Early Bird Scholarship, Finlandia Fridays bring on Enrollment Counselor Jason Dart to discuss topics like “Who can apply?”, Finlandia’s expedited admissions process and tips for how students and families can maximize their financial aid opportunities. Announced earlier this week, the Fall 2022 Early Bird Scholarship is a new, one-time $500 scholarship for students who apply and submit their transcripts by Jan. 1.

    “It’s $500 for doing something you have to do anyway. Everybody has to [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays meet up with instructor Sami Dowling (’10) to discuss PTA Program and Club

    Sami Dowling

    This week, Finlandia Fridays welcome to the show PTA Program Instructor Sami Dowling (’10) to talk about Finlandia’s PTA Program and the newly revitalized PTA Club for students. Dowling shares her journey as a FinnU student, what inspired her to become a PTA as well as her journey back to Finlandia as an instructor.

    “The beautiful thing about Finlandia is that it’s like a family. I’m still in touch with my instructors from when I was in the program. [...]


  • Support our students this Giving Tuesday

    Jordan Shawhan

    Giving Tuesday is only days away!

    Jordan Shawhan joins this week’s host Haley Goodreau to talk about the special day of giving dedicated to raising money for student scholarships. Shawhan and Goodreau discuss what to expect from Giving Tuesday as well as the life-long meaningful impact these donations have on FinnU student lives.

    “All the money raised is going directly toward student scholarships. Those are need-based scholarships, we have a whole list of scholarships that money goes to on [...]


  • Kailee Laplander presents Finlandia’s upcoming 125th Anniversary on Finlandia Fridays

    Kailee Laplander

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, new Executive Assistant to the President, Kailee Laplander, joins the show to talk about Finlandia’s upcoming 125th Anniversary celebrations on December 3, 4 and 5. For the first time, Laplander dives into these three special days of storytelling, Folk School workshops, art, worship and musical performances. The weekend culminates on Sunday with a special edition program of Finlandia’s Annual Finnish Independence Day Observance.

    “We are coming together to celebrate our 125 years through several events between [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays explore the Jutila Center with Cyril FoxPetrov

    This week, Finlandia Fridays welcomes Business Office Controller Cyril FoxPetrov to explore Finlandia’s Lily I. Jutila Center for Global Design and Business. The Center, located on the scenic banks of the Portage Canal, is less than a mile from Finlandia’s main campus and serves as a place of cultivation for students, faculty, staff and industry to learn and thrive.

    The building houses several University departments including the Business Office, Marketing & Communications, Human Resources and Finlandia’s International School of [...]


  • Finlandia to offer Online RN-BSN at $7,500: Learning more with Sherry Wyeth

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, host Jordan Shawhan is joined by Enrollment Counselor Sherry Wyeth to talk about Finlandia’s Online RN-BSN completion track program. The award-winning program recently announced a price drop to a total out-of-pocket tuition cost of $7,500, or $250 per credit hour.

    “This program is for working nurses, so if you’re an ADN already working in a clinic, hospital environment or long-term care, this is a great program for you,” Wyeth said. “Classes are eight weeks long and [...]


  • Dean of Enrollment talks 60 in 60 on Finlandia Fridays

    Dean of Enrollment Anthony Schwass joins Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about the admissions team’s new campaign, 60 in 60.

    “There are roughly 60 high schools and career technical education centers, or CTE’s, in the U.P. and we’re planning on visiting them all in 60 days,” Schwass said. “We aren’t just popping in once and not coming back until the next year. Our plan is really to build the relationships we have with these local schools into true partnerships.”

    Education [...]


  • Fulbright Scholar Samuli Korkalainen joins Finlandia Fridays

    Visiting from Finland and hosted by Finlandia’s Finnish & Nordic Studies program, Doctor of Music Samuli Korkalainen joins Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about his experience in the Keweenaw and the reason for his visit to the Upper Peninsula. Known by most as Samppa, Korkalainen was visiting the university as a post-doctoral Fulbright Scholar while conducting research at the Finnish American Archives. What brings Korkalainen all the way to Finlandia? Spiritual music in Finnish American communities from the 1860’s [...]


  • Exploring the International School of Business with Dean Kevin Manninen

    Joining Finlandia Fridays this week is Kevin Manninen, dean and associate professor of management and marketing with the International School of Business at Finlandia University. Manninen shares insight into what it’s like being a business student at Finlandia and what advantages there are through small class sizes and experiential learning at the institution such as internship opportunities, international collaboration and hands-on project management experience. Manninen talks about what majors and minors are offered through the International School of Business [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays hosts Nick Kwiek to talk Parade of Nations and TRIO SSS

    Nick Kwiek, Career Coach with TRIO Student Support Services at Finlandia University, joined Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about the Parade of Nations, a multicultural festival celebrated in the cities of Hancock and Houghton. Kwiek talks about the change in programming and route of this year’s parade and shares information on how students, employees and community members can get involved. The conversation opens with Kwiek discussing the role of TRIO Student Support Services at Finlandia University and then dives [...]


  • President Johnson introduces 125th Anniversary on Finlandia Fridays

    President Philip Johnson joins Finlandia Fridays this week to introduce the institution’s upcoming 125th Anniversary celebrations planned for December 3, 4 and 5. Johnson also details the significance of the ceremonial event held this week on September 8 in front of Old Main. For our new listeners, Johnson shares the history of Old Main as well. Don’t wait to listen to the full episode below!

    For full access to seasons 1-6 of Finlandia Fridays, please visit our Finlandia Podcast Network!


  • Finlandia Fridays with Pastor Sarah Semmler Smith

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, campus Pastor Sarah Semmler Smith joins Season 6 host, Jordan Shawhan, to speak about all that is happening this fall at the Chapel of St. Matthew. Semmler Smith talks about the resources, both spiritual and tangible, that she and St. Matt’s can provide as well as the ways for students to get involved or reach out to her anytime they are in need.

    “In some ways, you can think of me as the spiritual support animal of [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays welcomes senior Nursing student Malone Hiebert for Fall 2021 Welcome Week

    Finlandia Fridays starts Season 6 by interviewing highly involved senior nursing student Malone Hiebert. She is an RA, orientation leader, student ambassador, Sisu leader, volleyball player, softball player, Alpha Lambda Delta Honors Society senior advisor and a member of the Academic Families for Nursing program. Listen to the episode to learn more about Malone and Welcome Week at Finlandia for Fall 2021.

    Finlandia University Podcast Network · April 23

    Finlandia Fridays finds a new host

    Season 5 of Finlandia Fridays came to a close with a major announcement: Finlandia’s new Director of Marketing and Communications, Jordan Shawhan, will take over the role of host for next season.

    Shawhan steps into host Olivia Myers’ role for Season 6, which will premier in August 2021. In the episode, Shawhan talks about his ties to the area, the career move he made from insurance to higher ed, and what he’s looking forward to in his new role.

    “Higher education, I’ve [...]


  • Ceramics Major, Ramona Kuhn, named 2021 Student Representative

    With graduation less than a month away, the Class of 2021 Student Representative, Ramona Kuhn, caught up with host Olivia Myers to talk about her time at Finlandia.

    Kuhn, originally from St. Cloud, Minn. will be earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics. Kuhn can remember the exact moment she realized she wanted to pursue a career in art.

    “I remember the first time when I touched clay and took a clay workshop as a kid was when I was [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays Welcomes FinnU Overview to Finlandia Podcast Network

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, International School of Business students Jakob Vettori (Marketing) and Joseph Watson (Accounting) talk about their new student-run podcast, FinnU Overview.

    Vettori and Watson talk about how a business class project led to this exciting opportunity to be featured on the official Finlandia University Podcast Network after being discovered by Finlandia Fridays host, Olivia Myers. The pair, who are both originally from Hancock, hope the new student-run podcast will provide insight into [...]


  • Reflecting on one year with COVID-19

    Finlandia’s Dean of Students, Erin Barnett, joined Finlandia Fridays host Olivia Myers this week to reflect on Finlandia’s year with COVID-19 and what the future has in store for the university.

    “One thing I’ve learned is that we’re all so much more resilient than maybe we thought when all this started,” said Barnett. “We learned a lot during the fall semester about communication about masking, social distancing, how to set up our classrooms, teach online and learn online. Going into [...]


  • Maki Library offers more than books for students

    It’s a place most students will visit more than once in their college career – the library. While Finlandia’s Maki Library houses thousands of books and provides a great space to study, there’s more than meets the eye. Assistant Librarian Dana Pakulski stopped by Finlandia Fridays this week to do a deeper dive into what the Maki Library has to offer students.

    “A lot of public libraries have programming and build a community, and that has become a huge [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays Dives Into the Finlandia Gallery ISAD Faculty Exhibit

    Mornings, 2021, Adobe Illustrator by Tom Adolphs

    The International School of Art & Design 2021 Faculty Exhibit is on display now at the Finlandia University Gallery. Gallery Director Carrie Flaspohler joined Olivia Myers on Finlandia Fridays to talk about the exhibit and upcoming artist reception.

    Retired professor Phyllis Fredendall showcasing her pieces that are in the exhibit

    Recent works by full-time, adjunct and emeritus faculty representing a diverse range of media and concepts will be on display. [...]


  • The Seaton Center for Vocation & Career is officially open

    It’s a moment campus has been waiting for since the news originally broke in 2019. The Seaton Center for Vocation & Career is officially open and housed in Nikander 15. While there are still some furniture pieces coming in and decorating to be completed, the CVC is now offering services and appointment to students.

    Director of Career Services Emma Dorst stopped by Finlandia Fridays to talk about the official launch of the CVC, what services students can take [...]


  • TRIO STEAM Saturdays pilot program tackles social justice for high schoolers

    TRIO Pre-College programs Online Advisor Kailee Laplander stopped by Finlandia Fridays to discuss a new pilot program that 10 lucky western UP high schoolers will be a part of this spring semester. The STEAM Saturdays program focuses on connecting students from across the country who are interested in social justice and careers and STEAM in a monthly e-meeting. The program will be piloted with 20 TRIO Pre-College programs from across the country and give students the [...]


  • Dr. Jason Oyadomari talks about new MSW pathway with NMU on Finlandia Fridays

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, Dean of the Suomi College of Arts & Sciences Dr. Jason Oyadomari talked about the new articulation agreement between FinnU and Northern Michigan University that will provide a clear pathway for students interested in pursing a Master’s of Social Work degree.

    “We developed this partnership so that any students in those Psychology, Sociology or Criminal Justice majors can then qualify for what we’re calling the Early Assurance Program into [...]


  • Students to participate in social justice webinar with Jen Fry Talks on Jan. 19

    Finlandia University students will begin difficult and necessary discussions on social and racial justice with the Jen Fry Talks virtual event on January 19 from 5:45-7:30 p.m. Social Justice Task Force members Nick Kwiek and Shane Voldarski talked with Finlandia Fridays host, Olivia Myers, this week about the upcoming Jen Fry Talks event and what they hope students will learn.

    “We knew we needed an educational component to our campus anti-racist work. We decided [...]


  • FinnU Nursing ranked a top program in Michigan by Nursing Schools Almanac for second straight year

    Finlandia University’s nursing program was ranked a top program in Michigan for the second year in a row by Nursing Schools Almanac. Nursing Schools Almanac evaluated over 3,000 schools on the institution’s academic prestige and perceived value, the breadth and depth of nursing programs offered, and student success, particularly on the NCLEX licensure examination. From there, an overall score was applied and schools were ranked accordingly. FinnU came in at number 26 in the [...]


  • Goodman, Gonzalez talk fall esports success, announce new arena

    ECAC Fall FIFA finalist, Chelan Gonzalez, and Esports Coach, Thomas Goodman, called into Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about the team’s success in their first season, how they managed to play through COVID restrictions and what they’re looking forward to in 2021 with their new arena.

    Gonzalez, a sophomore Psychology major from Tecumseh, Mich. was recruited by Goodman through the men’s soccer program. As the fall sports teams weren’t allowed to compete due to COVID-19, [...]


  • An “Epic” Deal to Explore the Kalevala with Dr. Virtanen

    Kalevalathon

    We know you won’t want to miss out on this “epic” deal to read and analyze the Kalevala, with Assistant Professor, Dr. Hilary-Joy Virtanen.

    For the first time ever, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Virtanen will offer her spring 2021 Kalevala class online, opening the door to anyone in the world who is interested in taking the course, either as an audit student or for-credit. Dr. Virtanen joined Finlandia Fridays host, Olivia Myers, this week to discuss the [...]


  • Exploring the History of American Presidential Elections with Dr. Knoblauch

    voting, election, vote

    Dr. William Knoblauch, History Professor

    Finlandia Fridays is back this week with a special election edition. Host Olivia Myers talks with Finlandia History Professor Dr. William Knoblauch about the history of American presidential elections. Listeners submitted questions for Knoblauch to answer including ‘how important is the electoral college?’, ‘what happens if there’s a tie?’, and what other election seasons this one can be compared to. 

    “History is the act of asking why something happened and constructing an argument [...]


  • Don’t Throw Away Your Shot! Finlandia Fridays Talks About the Flu Shot Clinic

    “I’m not throwing away my shot,” sang Lin-Manuel Miranda as Alexander Hamilton in the hit musical “Hamilton.” While Miranda wasn’t referring to a flu shot per-say, it is important not to forgo your flu shot this year. To make it easier to obtain, Finlandia University’s Wellness Committee will have influenza vaccines available for the Finlandia community on Monday, Oct. 12 from 3-5p.m in Nikander 14A.

    Talking about the Flu Shot Clinic on Finlandia Fridays this week was Assistant Professor [...]


  • Filing Your FAFSA with Marie Bonenfant

    The FAFSA is officially open!

    This week, Finlandia Fridays host Olivia Myers talks with Financial Aid Counselor Marie Bonenfant about the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which opened on Oct. 1. The pair talked about why it’s important for all students to complete and how submitting it allows FinnU’s financial aid office to see what scholarships, grants and federal loans a student is eligible for.

    “It’s one of the most important [...]


  • A Match Made in Research Heaven: The Sociologist and the Census

    It’s a tale as old as time. Or rather, just as old as the United States Census. No, it’s not Beauty and the Beast, but it is a match made in research heaven: the sociologist and the census.

    To talk about this perfect pair, Finlandia Fridays host Olivia Myers talks with Finlandia’s Sociology Professor, Dr. Michael Reay. Dr. Reay goes into detail about the difference between sociology and psychology (the collective versus the individual) and how the


  • Erin Barnett Discusses Safe Open, Giving Day on Finlandia Fridays Season 5 Opener

    A student checks-in at Finlandia Hall during new student move-in.

    Finlandia Fridays is back for Season 5! To kick the season off, host Olivia Myers talked with Dean of Students Erin Barnett about Finlandia’s Safe Open Plan for the Fall 2020 semester.

    Barnett discussed Finlandia’s baseline testing and the planning that went into opening the campus safely for face-to-face instruction. Results are still pending for a handful of students, but as of Friday morning, only one student [...]


  • President Johnson Shares Exciting News about the Fall 2020 Semester

    Fall 2020

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, Finlandia University President, Philip Johnson joins host, Anastazia Hartman to share the exciting news about classes this fall (2020). The pair talks about the plan for the safe open, the new health center, and more!

    “I know the entire campus, which is now virtual, is very excited, we think this is exactly what we need to be doing for fall 2020. This is exactly what parents, families, and students expect. We are [...]


  • 2020 Student Representative, Nicholas Tobey Shares His FinnU Experiences

    Student Representative

    With virtual graduation a week away, the Class of 2020 Student Representative, Nicholas Tobey, caught up with host Anastazia Hartman to talk about his time here at Finlandia.

    “It’s definitely an honor, it’s something I thought about since my freshman year, and my roommate actually did it. It was kind of a challenge for me,” said Tobey. “Since I have been here it became less of a personal thing and much more of me being happy I get to [...]


  • Breaking the Stigma with the NCAA Mental Health Awareness Week

    NCAA Mental Health Week

    May is Mental Health Awareness month, an opportunity to speak up and help “Break the Stigma” surrounding the topic. On this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays, host Anastazia Hartman is joined by Sports Information Director, Mike Bond to discuss the NCAA Mental Health Awareness Week. 

    “The goal was to Break the Stigma surrounding mental health because it has such a negative connotation surrounding it when you ask for help,” said Bond.  “Through the campaign, members of the athletic administration [...]


  • Pastor Sarah Shares Baccalaureate Info and Words of Encouragement

    Virtual Baccalaureate

    On this week’s Finlandia Fridays host Anastazia Hartman speaks with Campus Pastor, Sarah Semmler Smith to discuss this year’s virtual baccalaureate service, student care packages, and words of encouragement during times of social distancing.

    The virtual baccalaureate service offers graduates and families the opportunity to gather for a time of worship centered on prayers, blessings, and homily. From the Chapel of St. Matthew, Pastor Sarah Semmler Smith will preside over this special virtual edition.

    “Typically baccalaureate would be the [...]


  • International School of Art and Design Addresses Online Learning

    Art & Design

    On this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays host, Anastazia Hartman is joined by the Dean of the International School of Art and Design, Denise Vandeville, to discuss how online learning is effecting students in the Art & Design programs.

    “Two-thirds of our courses are studio-based, so that was one of the first things we needed to address,” said Vandeville. “We also have classes that are lecture-based classes, those were much easier to move to the online environment. As [...]


  • Introducing FinnU’s New Dean of Enrollment, Anthony Schwass

    Finn Fridays Dean of Enrollment

    On this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays host, Anastazia Hartman is joined by Finlandia’s new Dean of Enrollment Anthony Schwass to discuss his goals, the new lower deposit rate, summer courses and more.

    Schwass who recently joined the Finlandia family shared what this lower deposit rate means for incoming students during this time of uncertainty.

    “We are facing a great level of unpredictability in the coming weeks and perhaps months due to the COVID-19 situation,” said Schwass. “The [...]


  • TRiO Student Support Services Helping Students Online

    TRiO SSS Helping Students Online

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, host Anastazia Hartman gave Director of TRiO Student Support Services, Cindy Cowell a call to discuss what TRiO SSS is doing for FinnU students while they are no longer on campus. The pair spoke about what TRiO is, how they assist students and what the transition from face-to-face to online learning has been like. 

    “All of the tutoring we did face-to-face, now has a canvas page so there is a great tool to [...]


  • Introducing The Lion’s Den Initiative for Student Athletes

    The Lion's Den

    On this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays head women’s soccer coach and academic coordinator for athletics, Grace Sokolow caught up with host Anastazia Hartman to talk about a new comprehensive initiative called the Lion’s Den for student-athletes. The main mission of the Lion’s Den is to educate and support Finlandia University student-athletes beyond the classroom, field, court, and ice.

    “We have identified a need in our student-athlete population for more comprehensive academic support,” said Sokolow. “So we have created [...]


  • Introducing FinnU’s New Esports Director, Thomas Goodman

    Esports

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, host Olivia Myers is joined by Thomas Goodman who was recently hired as the director for the new Esports program, which begins Fall 2020. The pair discusses everything from students to recruits and what you need to know about the team and upcoming season.

    Esports is growing rapidly at the collegiate level and has been linked with improved memory, concentration, and analytical development. With this program, FinnU can reach [...]


  • Women’s Basketball Brings Home the Championship

    Women's Basketball ACAA Champs

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, women’s basketball coach Mariah Dunham swings by the set to fill-in host, Olivia Myers about the recent ACAA Championship win. The two talk about the first title in school history for the women’s basketball team, ACAA honors, and more!

    “It was really a testament to the girl’s focus. We went in just kind of being that underdog and the underdog mentality,” said Dunham. “Knowing that we have to go into Saturday’s game [...]


  • Closer Look at Nursing Families with Students, Elizabeth Hauglie and Courtney Mayo

    olivia meyers-courtney mayo- elizabeth hauglie

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, host Olivia Meyers is joined by Finlandia University nursing students, junior Elizabeth Hauglie and sophomore Courtney Mayo to talk about Nursing Families.

    The initiative titled, Nursing Families, is a new tradition where junior-level students “adopt” freshman and transfer students to help guide them through the first year of the educational program. The practice of academic families is well known in some European universities and is a great way to make first-year students feel [...]


  • Graphic Design with Tom Adolphs

    Graphic Design with Tom Adolphs

    At FinnU a degree in graphic design is becoming more and more popular. On this episode of Finlandia Fridays host, Olivia Myers is joined by graphic design professor, Tom Adolphs. The pair talk about the graphic design program, the updated graphics lab, scholarships and more.

    “I like to think that they enjoy the atmosphere we’ve built, we have done a lot of renovation in the last three years with the graphic design space,” said Adolphs. “I try to [...]


  • FinnU’s New 2+2 PTA Program

    PTA 2+2

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays host, Olivia Myers is joined by senior Jayson Dahlquist and administrative coordinator for clinical education, Nicole Polakowski. The group discussed the new PTA 2+2 program that allows students to receive their associate’s degree in PTA and continue on to receive their bachelor’s in Liberal Studies. With this program students the opportunity to move on a Doctor of Physical Therapy program if they choose.

    “The 2+2 came about because of students like [...]


  • Rise Together with President Philip Johnson

    Rise Together Scholarship

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, FinnU President, Philip Johnson drops by the set to discuss the new Rise Together Scholarship with host, Olivia Myers. President Johnson discusses the excitement that Rise Together brings and how it will help students who never thought college was an option.

    The Rise Together Scholarship is a need-based scholarship that, when combined with federal and Michigan state scholarships and grants, covers a Michigan student’s entire tuition costs. This scholarship keeps with [...]


  • Broomball with Student Senate President Nick Tobey

    Broomball with Nick Tobey

    Students at FinnU love second semester because that means broomball is back! On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, host Olivia Myers is joined by Student Senate President Nick Tobey to discuss broomball, what it is and how students can participate.

    This is the second year that Student Senate has had broomball as an extracurricular activity for students.

    “Broomball is essentially hockey, except you are on shoes or boots and you have a broom that is taped up with a slight [...]


  • Athletic Director Curtis Wittenberg Talks Esports

    Finlandia Fridays Esports

    On this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays host, Olivia Myers is joined by FinnU’s athletic director, Curtis Wittenberg to chat about the new varsity Esports program beginning this fall.

    Esports is organized, competitive online gaming that allows multiple players to participate in competitions. Esports is one of the fastest-growing sports at the collegiate level. Online gaming has been linked to improved memory, concentration, and analytical development but, it also provides an opportunity for social development through teamwork and [...]


  • MLK Day of Service 2020 with Molly Berg and Mia Glenn

    MLK Day of Service

    In the first episode of the new year, host Anastazia Hartman is joined by Molly Berg and Mia Glenn, members of the women’s basketball team to discuss the fourth annual MLK Day of Service.

    Students and faculty will not be reporting to class as they usually do on Monday morning. Instead, students, staff and faculty are continuing one of Finlandia’s newest and most rewarding traditions – MLK Day of Service. MLK Day of Service is when our Finlandia [...]


  • Benefits of Dual Enrollment with Luke Paul

    With the first semester of the school year complete, admissions officer Luke Paul dropped by Finlandia Fridays to tell host Olivia Myers more about FinnU’s Dual enrollment program for eligible high school students.

    “Dual enrollment is an opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to come and take a class on Finlandia’s campus or online,” said Paul. “It is a great opportunity for kids getting a jump start on their college careers.”

    There are many advantages to being a [...]


  • Get Fit in 2020 at Paavo Nurmi

    2020 is almost here and many people look to get fit in the new year. The Paavo Nurmi Fitness Center offers members a great gym at a great price to make sure they can reach their fitness goals.  On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, host Olivia Myers is joined by women’s basketball coach Mariah Dunham for the second time this season, this time to discuss the new discounted pricing Paavo Nurmi will be [...]


  • Great Gifts at North Wind Books with April Stevens

    The holiday season is here and that means finding special gifts for family and friends.  On this episode of Finlandia Fridays Olivia Myers is joined by April Stevens to discuss all the great, unique gifts you can find at North Wind Books.

    “This year especially we are selling a lot of the Taste of Finnish America, that book was coordinated by the Finnish American Heritage Center so all proceeds do benefit their programing,” said Stevens. “That has [...]


  • Make A Difference This Giving Tuesday

     

    Giving Tuesday is only a few days away! Olivia Myers joins host Anastazia Hartman to discuss what to expect from this year’s Giving Tuesday and the difference these donations make in FinnU student’s lives.

    This Giving Tuesday, FinnU is looking to raise $75,000 for student scholarships. The goal is to help keep FinnU affordable for current and future students.  For the second year, Board of Trustees President Julie Badel will again be matching all donations made [...]


  • Santeri Says… FinnU’s Biggest Social Media Star Drops By Finlandia Fridays

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays host Olivia Myers is joined by her new cohost Anastazia Hartman and junior, international business student, Santeri Seppinen. The group catches up with Seppinen to find out more about his hockey teams Movember fundraiser, Santeri Says, the hockey season and more.

    This year the Men’s Hockey team decided to take part in raising money for men’s health.  The team created a Movember video to bring awareness to [...]


  • Insight Into the Paloheimo Fellows Program Experience

    This week host, Olivia Myers is joined by Finnish & Nordic Studies Senior, Seth Dahl. Dahl and Myers dive into what it’s like to be in the Finnish & Nordic Studies program, the Paloheimo Fellows program, the opportunity it gives students and more.

    The Paloheimo Fellows program allows a select group of students to study Finnish culture and society in Finland with Dr. Hilary-Joy Virtanen. With the support of the Paloheimo Foundation, most expenses for travel are [...]


  • Women’s Soccer Earns ACAA Conference Tournament Runner Up

    On the 100th episode of Finlandia Fridays host Olivia Myers catches up with Head Women’s Soccer Coach, Grace Sokolow.  Sokolow makes her second appearance on the show this season with great news from the teams recent visit to California for the ACAA Conference Tournament.

    Sokolow in her first year as head coach of the women’s soccer program, “I came in and I had pretty managed expectations. We are looking to build something and we managed to get a [...]


  • Basketball, Pasties and Leadership

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, host Olivia Myers is joined by new Men’s Basketball Head Coach, Sam Casey. Casey recently moved to the the Copper Country, he shares with Myers his experience so far, his philosophy on a successful program and the team.

    “To me leadership is not necessarily getting people to follow you, it’s getting people to walk with you,” said Casey. “We spend a lot of time individually with our students. One of the things [...]


  • Pastor Sarah Semmler Smith Talks Community and Mondays at St. Matts

    On this episode of Finlandia Fridays, host Olivia Myers speaks with new campus Pastor Sarah Semmler Smith, who was installed a month ago.  Semmler Smith shares with Myers her journey to becoming a pastor, what lead her to FinnU and events taking place at the Chapel of St. Matthew.

    “Pastors get to be with people in the best and worst times. The real times,” said Semmler Smith. “When there is a birth, when there is a death, when you [...]


  • A Fin-LOVE-dia Story: Ethan, Ashley and baby Nash

    On this weeks episode of Finlandia Fridays, host Devin O’Neill shares the news of his departure with one final episode. Today he is joined by Ethan, Ashley and Nash St. Germain. Ethan and Ashley share with O’Neill their Fin-LOVE-dia story on how they reconnected here at FinnU.

    Both originally from Negaunee, MI and sharing the same friend group for years, the two parted ways when Ethan went to play junior hockey in the Wisconsin Dells. Over time Ethan came back [...]


  • Giving Day, Textbook Awards and More with Alumni Board President Monica Hill

    On this week’s Finlandia Fridays, host Olivia Myers is joined by Alumni Board President Monica Hill. Myers and Hill discussed Homecoming, the first annual Giving Day, Textbooks Awards and more. 

    Hill, a ‘76 graduate of Suomi College became the Alumni Board President in 2018. The Alumni Board is an advisory group to the university, whose mission is “the promotion of the vision, mission, goals, and programs of Finlandia University.”

    This year the Alumni Board raised money during Giving [...]


  • Lindsey Johnson’s Finnish Adventures

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, management and entrepreneurship Senior, Lindsey Johnson joins hosts Olivia Myers and Devin O’Neill to discuss her summer marketing internship here in Hancock and her study abroad experience in Finland. 

    Johnson, no stranger to Finlandia Fridays, was a guest last spring previewing her upcoming plans for the summer. Now that she’s back she was excited to share her experience.

    Over the summer, Johnson had the opportunity to intern with Marko Luoma, who opened [...]


  • Mariah Dunham Gets Pumped for Homecoming

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, head women’s basketball coach Mariah Dunham stopped by to talk with Olivia Myers about next week’s homecoming festivities.

    This is Dunham’s second time on Finlandia Fridays, but her first discussing the activities surrounding homecoming after playing a multitude of roles in last years event. 

    “I thought it went really well last year, said Dunham “ I’m back this year to help on what we can do to organize a [...]


  • Previewing “By Faith” with Karin Van Dyke

    This week Finlandia Fridays was visited by Vice President for Advancement Karin Van Dyke to tell us all about By Faith and the events that will be happening this upcoming weekend. Van Dyke also discusses Parade of Nations and the history surrounding the event.

    By Faith is an event that is happening throughout the weekend. The purpose is to recognize the 140 alumni graduates of the Suomi Seminary from 1904-1958. The seminary is the origins of Suomi College, now Finlandia University. [...]


  • Kicking the Season Off with Grace Sokolow

    Finlandia Fridays is back and kicks off season 4 with new Head Women’s Soccer Coach, Grace Sokolow. Hired this past July, Sokolow talks about her move to Finlandia, her coaching background, as well as her expectations for the rest of the season.

    Sokolow played Divison III soccer at Vassar College. Upon graduating and doing some soul searching she realized the soccer field was the place she wanted to be. She took a job as an assistant soccer [...]


  • Meet the new co-hosts of Finlandia Fridays

    Finlandia Fridays is back with a special edition today as Olivia Myers and Devin O’Neill were introduced as cohosts of the weekly interview series. O’Neill and Myers will taking over for season four, taking turns interviewing guests.

    Meet Olivia Myers

    Myers currently serves as Coordinator of External Affairs, where she leads all alumni relations efforts. Since joining Finlandia she’s introduced a formal homecoming weekend, introduced an incredibly successful Giving Tuesday campaign and worked with the Finlandia Alumni Board to host the [...]


  • She Shoots, She Scores with Student Representative Haley Makela

    Haley Makela and Monica Freeman for Finlandia Fridays

    It’s graduation season at FinnU! Student representative, Haley Makela stopped by Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about her experiences as an active member on campus. Featuring guest host Monica Freeman, the two soon-to-be-graduates discussed their excitement to graduate. “I’m very thankful to be done,” remarked Makela, “it’s been a long four years.”

    “It’s a great honor to be selected as the student representative. It’s something I have strived for since my freshman year,” said Makela.

    A local from Atlantic [...]


  • Previewing Diploma Works with Senior Miranda Conroy

    Miranda Conroy showing off her Diploma Works project

    Finlandia Fridays was visited this week by senior intermedia student, Miranda Conroy. Hailing from Ishpeming, Conroy will have her final undergraduate work featured with the rest of the graduating art students in this year’s Bachelor of Fine Arts Diploma Works exhibition. The exhibition will take place on Saturday, May 4 at 7 p.m. in the Finnish American Heritage Center.

    The Diploma Works exhibition is the final event before graduation for the senior art students. The show features [...]


  • Digging into Diversity Dinner with Dewan Keeling

    Dewan Keeling and Michael H Babcock

    Black Student Union President Dewan Keeling dropped by Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about his experiences at FinnU and the upcoming Diversity Dinner.  Keeling is a junior from Detroit, who is majoring in healthcare management.

    “The Diversity Dinner is where our students can come and get together to make dishes that replicate where they are from,” stated Keeling. “It’s a way to make them feel more at home.”

    Boasting a broad variety of dishes, the event is not only [...]


  • Blast from the Past with Suomi College Alum, Detective Clem Papineau

    Clem Papineau with Michael Babcock

    Suomi College alum, Clem Papineau visited Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about his time in the Keweenaw.

    Originally from Ontonagon, Papineau initially planned on going to Michigan State University. Papineau was approached by Suomi’s basketball coach at the time to play basketball. After looking into the school, Papineau said he was instantly hooked. Papineau ended up attending Suomi, but did not end up playing basketball.

    Papineau chose to study Criminal Justice because from a young age, he knew he wanted [...]


  • Taste for Opportunity with Junior Business Student Lindsey Johnson

    Lindsey Johnson for Finlandia Fridays

    This week junior Lindsey Johnson dropped by Finlandia Fridays to talk about her active presence on campus. Coming from Atlantic Mine, Johnson is studying management and entrepreneurship.

    Johnson will be starting an internship with FinnU alum, Marko Luoma, within the next several months. The internship will take place in the FinnZone, which is located on the third floor of the Jutila Center. Johnson will be helping Finnish and American businesses coordinate [...]


  • Exploring the Digital Classroom with Dr. Michelle Rauch

    Dr. Rauch showing Michael Babcock Finlandia's online programs

    Dr. Michelle Rauch dropped by Finlandia University, as well as Finlandia Fridays, for this week’s episode. Dr. Rauch was hired as Director of Innovative and Online Learning in the fall, and will be moving to campus more this upcoming year.

    Rauch stated that her goal is “to make sure that the online classrooms are consistent with the traditional classroom. The person should feel the experience of the in-person class and be part of a collaborative community.” FinnU has offered an [...]


  • Going Global with Ponsse Chairman Juha Vidgrén

    Juha Vidgren of Ponsse presenting at Finlandia University

    Guest host Briana Gorman was visited on Finlandia Fridays this week by Juha Vidgrén, chairman of the board for Ponsse. Ponsse is a Finnish-based company that builds logging equipment.

    The company was started in 1970 by Vidgrén’s father, who started out as a farmer that did logging on the weekends. Moving full-time into logging, Vidgrén’s father started to buy old farm equipment to help with the job. Because the equipment consistently broke, [...]


  • Stepping Up to the Plate with Denia Bent and Joey Krug

    Denia Bent and Joey Krug pitching for Finlandia Fridays

    With spring break around the corner, Finlandia Fridays was visited by softball player Denia Bent and baseball player Joey Krug. Heading to Florida for the annual spring break games, guest host Briana Gorman talked to Bent and Krug about their upcoming seasons.

    From Cape Coral, Florida, Bent is a junior majoring in graphic design. Outside of softball, Bent is a member of student senate and is a work study in the communications department. Krug hails from San [...]


  • Going International with Director of Global Initiatives Cat Fuller

    Cat Fuller and Michael Babcock for Finlandia Fridays

    Finlandia Fridays crosses borders this week with Director of Global Initiatives Cat Fuller. Member of the FinnU family since September, Fuller describes her job as “dealing with everything international.” Fuller deals with international recruitment, study abroad, and assisting faculty members who want to run their own programs abroad or do research abroad.

    Fuller’s first semester saw her overseas, visiting China, the Netherlands and Finland. In China, Fuller visited area high schools to recruit students and attended a fair in Beijing. [...]


  • Junior Emily Nguyen Discusses Ambassador Program

    Emily Nguyen shows Michael Babcock how to use UniBuddy

    Emily Nguyen dropped by Finlandia Fridays this week to share her experiences as a student ambassador.

    Nguyen is a junior studying criminal justice as FinnU. Hailing from Chino Hills, California, Nguyen stumbled upon FinnU when she was contacted to join the Finlandia Lions NCAA Division III softball team. With many successes within the past three years, the Lions look to continue the success setting their sights on a bid at the national tournament berth.

    Outside of studying criminal justice [...]


  • Love is in the air with Valentine’s Day special of Finlandia Fridays

    Feeling the love at Fin-LOVE-dia

    Finlandia Fridays is feeling the love this week. Dubbed “Fin-LOVE-dia” Fridays for the Valentine’s Day special, students Tyler Kangas and Zuleiki Wight visited to share their “Fin-LOVE-dia” story.

    Kangas is a senior nursing student from Manistique. Captain of the football team, Kangas is also a resident assistant (RA). Originally starting his college career at Northern Michigan, Kangas heard of FinnU’s nursing program and the new football team, which led to his transfer. Being a part of the [...]


  • Taking account of the accounting program with Laura Sieders

    Laura Sieders with Michael Babcock

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, accounting instructor Laura Sieders stopped by to talk about the accounting degree offered here at FinnU.

    Following the standard requirements to be a CPA , the courses at FinnU prepare students to go into their fifth year of accounting and to go on and take the CPA exam The small class size sets the degree program apart from larger schools. Sieders mentioned she loves getting to know her students on a first name [...]


  • Finn-terns Meeri Kataja and Riina Rastas talk Heikinpäivä

    Michael Babcock with Meeri Kataja and Riina Rastas

    Dropping by the Finlandia Fridays studios this chilly week are Finnish interns Meeri Kataja and Riina Rastas. Both Kataja and Rastas are working in the Finnish American Heritage Center (FAHC). The FAHC brings in Finnish interns throughout the year to bring in another aspect of Finnish culture to the university and the local area.

    Kataja is from Espoo, the second largest city, located near Helsinki. Studying at the University of Helsinki Social Sciences, Kataja is assisting down in the archives [...]


  • Sophomore art students get soupy on Finlandia Fridays

    Blue Kenwood and Emma Mackey displaying their art skills

    Art students Emma Mackey and Blue Kenwood dropped by Finlandia Fridays this week. Both Mackey and Kenwood are sophomores in the International School of Art and Design, and members of the Young Women’s Caucus of Art (YWCA).

    Mackey is a local who is attending FinnU with the assistance of the Hancock Award and is studying graphic design. “At first I was doing the joint degree of marketing and graphic design, but I kind of fell in love with [...]


  • Looking ahead to MLK Day of Service with Leann Fogle

    Leann and Mike signing up for the MLK Day of Service

    Leann Fogle joins Finlandia Fridays to kick off the second half of season three. Fogle is the Director of Residence Life at Finlandia, and is apart of the planning committee for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service.

    The spring semester is one of Fogle’s favorite times in Finn Hall, as she gets to see many familiar faces and some new ones, as students transfer into the University. Finn Hall also helps out the Hei Suomi participants with [...]


  • Shooting the breeze with women’s basketball coach Mariah LaPointe-Dunham

    Mariah LaPointe-Dunham for Finlandia Fridays

    Women’s basketball coach Mariah LaPointe-Dunham dropped by Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about her favorite pastime, basketball. LaPointe-Dunham, who was hired just prior to the fall semester, has jumped into her position as head coach.

    “It’s been quite an adventure for me, kind of being hired on the spot and having about a week to prepare for a season and get to know my athletes at the same time,” stated LaPointe-Dunham.  Despite the craziness of the position [...]


  • Finn-tastic gift ideas with Alana Nolan

    ?

    Finlandia Fridays hosted Alana Nolan for this week’s episode. Nolan manages the University’s bookstore North Wind Books. The store specializes in all things FinnU, Scandinavian goods and local history.

    Speaking of local history, North Wind is now offering Finns of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Part of the Images of America series, Finns of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula was produced by the Finnish American Heritage Center. The book centers on Finns and the Finnish culture that can be found [...]


  • Learning to give Permission with Finnish American Artist Tia Keo

    Tia Keo on Finlandia Fridays

    Visiting artist Tia Keo dropped by Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about her work in the 28th Annual Finnish Contemporary Artist Series. Keo’s father David Salmela was the 16th artist in the series, making it the first time two family members have been showcased in the series.

    Keo has a variety of work hanging in the gallery, from sculpture to weavings. Keo admitted while being an artist her whole life, she has just recently started calling herself [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays prepares to give thanks with Olivia Myers

    Michael H. Babcock and Olivia Myers

    Coordinator of External Relations Olivia Myers dropped by Finlandia Fridays this week to discuss an exciting event that will be taking place November 27- Giving Tuesday.

    “Giving Tuesday is a result of combatting the idea of spending for the holidays by donating to the non-profit of your choice,” stated Myers. Giving Tuesday is the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, or the Tuesday after Black Friday and Cyber Monday. FinnU is jumping on board the Giving Tuesday trend this year by hosting a [...]


  • Lions take the field with soccer players Kasey Barber and Kirsten L’Esperance

    Field Tests with Kirsten and Kasey

    Setting school history this week, Finlandia is hosting the American Collegiate Athletic Association’s men’s and women’s soccer conference tournament. With that Finlandia Fridays was visited by two soccer players, Kasey Barber and Kirsten L’Esperance, both of whom are looking forward to this upcoming weekend.

    Barber discussed how the men’s team has had their fair share of difficulties this season. With a new coach and less players than expected, Barber stated “it’s been tough. But we’ve [...]


  • The Paloheimo Fellowship: Finn-ding out about Finland with Dana Pakulski and Kaylor Holmstrom

    Paloheimo Fellows Dana Pakulski and Kaylor Holmstrom for Finlandia Fridays

    Seniors Kaylor Holmstrom and Dana Pakulski recounted tales of their times as Paloheimo Fellows this week on Finlandia Fridays. The Paloheimo Fellowship is an opportunity for Finlandia students to study a topic in Finland for several weeks for little-to-no cost.

    “It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. You get to go and study in Finland with very minimal cost.” Dana Pakulski.

    Unlike study abroad, the Paloheimo Fellowship requires students to choose an aspect of Finland to study and blog about. Pakulski, [...]


  • Ask a Campus Read author, Lindsay King-Miller dives into book and LGBTQ awareness

    Lindsay King-Miller on Finlandia Fridays

    Author Lindsay King-Miller was invited to campus this week to speak about her book Ask a Queer Chick; a Guide to Sex, Love, and Life for Girls Who Dig Girls. While on campus King-Miller dropped by Finlandia Fridays to discuss and inform others of her experiences.

    “The campus has been incredibly welcoming. Everyone has been asking great questions, making me feel like everyone has read my writing which makes me feel so special, unique and amazing.”

    King-Miller visited several [...]


  • Viral artist Libby VanderPloeg GIFs Finlandia Fridays with artistic knowledge

    Libby VanderPloeg Finlandia Fridays

    Visiting artist Libby VanderPloeg dropped by Finlandia Fridays to share her artistic wisdom, and to settle the debate, is it GIF with the “g” sound or GIF with the “j” sound, like the peanut butter. VanderPloeg is nationally known and has work appear in the New York Times, Netflix, Huffington Post, Penguin Random House, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal and


  • Jordan Siegler talks alumni board and career preparation in the arts

    To celebrate homecoming this weekend, Finlandia University welcomed one of its most highly regarded graduates to campus with Jordan Siegler (’09) visiting the set of Finlandia Fridays. Siegler is an alum of FinnU’s International School of Art & Design, has served as Finlandia Alumni Board President since 2016 and works in fundraising for Wisconsin Public Television.

    Siegler spent last weekend in town to take part in the Alumni Board’s annual fall meeting. [...]


  • Learning about healthy gender identity with Filmmaker Byron Hurt

    Byron Hurt at Finlandia University

    This week Finlandia Fridays was visited by documentary filmmaker Byron Hurt. Hurt’s film Hip-Hop: Beyond Beats & Rhymes was shown last week to kick off the Month of Action, a month-long campaign put on by Finlandia to raise awareness against sexual violence and encourage healthy gender identity. Hurt was also on campus to give a talk “Locker Room Talk or Toxic Masculinity?”, which took place earlier this week.

    Despite being tired from travel before the talk, Hurt said [...]


  • The love of wisdom discussed with Dr. Patricia Grosse on Finlandia Fridays

    This week Finlandia Fridays turns into Faculty Fridays as Assistant Professor in Philosophy Dr. Patricia Grosse was on set to answer the question – what is philosophy? Dr. Grosse talked about that and a lot more in this week’s episode, starting with what the word literally means. Philosophy is the love of wisdom.

    “If you love wisdom, you love philosophy, you should take my classes,” she said to start the episode.

    In a world where working in the trades or focusing [...]


  • Juliet Kitale of Tanzania talks about trip to U.S. on Finlandia Fridays

    For more than a week now the Copper Country has been blessed with a dozen visitors coming all the way from Tanzania, and this week on Finlandia Fridays we got to meet one of them, Juliet Kitale.

    Kitale and 11 others were brought overseas by Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Hancock to explore the area, live with the families of the church and be reunited with many Finlandia faculty and staff members who have traveled to Tanzania over [...]


  • What’s brewing in Art and Design with Gini Brewer

    Gini Brewer Finlandia Fridays

    This week Finlandia Fridays was joined by Gini Brewer the International School of Art and Design (ISAD) coordinator. Stepping into the role this year, Brewer is in charge of helping students with admissions processes as well as doing administrative assistant tasks within the Art and Design department.

    Brewer, who studied fiber and fashion design at Finlandia, said that being able to study and work at FinnU has been like “coming home.” Initially starting her studies when Finlandia was still [...]


  • Finlandia rolls out podcast network with Digital Media Specialist Briana Gorman

    Briana Gorman and Michael Babcock

    Finlandia Fridays officially kicks off season three this week with guest Briana Gorman. With some new set pieces, equipment and move to 99.3 The Lift, the official station of Finlandia University athletics, the staff is anticipating this to be the best season yet.

    Along with season three, Finlandia Fridays is excited to announce the inception of the Finlandia Podcast Network (FPN), where fans will be able to find Finlandia Fridays as well as three new podcasts.

    “We made [...]


  • Finnish student teacher visits from Hei Suomi Program in South Range

    To top off season two, Finlandia Fridays was visited by Nikki Lishinski and Tuuli Savelainen. Savelainen is participating in the Hei Suomi program. The program brings Finnish teachers into the schools in South Range so the students are able to experience a different culture.

    Savelainen is a Finnish student studying to be a teacher, originally from southern Finland. She studies at the University of Lapland, located five miles away from the Arctic Circle. When asked about the Copper [...]


  • Globetrotting hockey player Rebecca Lilly of New Zealand talks about her times abroad and at Finlandia

    Rebecca Lilly Finlandia Fridays

    Native New Zealander Rebecca Lilly joined Finlandia Fridays this week. Hailing from the small town of Gore, Lilly is studying biology, while also playing for the women’s hockey team at FinnU. Lilly has been in North America since the age of 15 to play hockey, playing in multiple places in Canada. Being able to continue playing hockey was a primary reason Lilly choose Finlandia. Lilly also mentioned that she enjoys the smaller size of the school [...]


  • Student representative Melissa Helppi talks about her time in the nursing program

    Melissa Helppi Finlandia Fridays

    As the school year winds down, Melissa Helppi dropped by to share some of her experiences during her time at Finlandia. Helppi is graduating Summa Cum Laude from the nursing program, is giving a speech during commencement as this year’s student representative and will also be speaking at the nursing pinning ceremony. Helppi mentioned that both her speeches are finished, she just needs to make a few last minute tweaks.

    Called to a Career in Nursing

    When asked about the nursing [...]


  • Senior art students Levi Grannis and Hannah Scott-Moore discuss upcoming Diploma Works Exhibition

    Levi Grannis and Hannah Scott-Moore Finlandia Fridays

    Levi Grannis and Hannah Scott-Moore dropped by Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about the annual Diploma Works Exhibition. Both students are graduating from the International School for Art + Design (ISAD). The exhibition highlights work from the graduating class. This year 10 seniors will have work on display. 

    Grannis will be graduating with a degree in intermedia, allowing Grannis “to not strictly use just one type of media, I get to use all of them for further creative [...]


  • Geri Hawley explains why Physical Therapist Assistant is a great degree option

    Geri Hawley, an instructor in the Physical Therapists Assistant (PTA) program, stopped by Finlandia Fridays this week to discuss the PTA degree offered at Finlandia. “We are designed to prepare students to go out into the clinical field and work with patients under a physical therapist to be able to treat patients and get them better in any pathology they have,” stated Hawley. The program is a two-year program, with students receiving more intensive training in their second year.  [...]


  • Abigail Tembreull and Elle Rowe discuss Young Women’s Caucus for Art

    Elle Rowe and Abigail Tembreull Finlandia Fridays

    Current President of the Young Women’s Caucus for Art Abigail Tembreull and soon-to-be President Elle Rowe stopped by Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about the future of the club. The Young Women’s Caucus for Art is a club that primarily works towards promoting women in the art world, but don’t let the name fool you, the club is open to all genders.

    Elle Rowe is a sophomore in the Marketing and Graphic Design program. She is [...]


  • Campus Pastor Soren Schmidt talks eventful April and Campus Ministry

    Soren Schmidt Finlandia Fridays

    With Easter right around the corner, campus pastor Soren Schmidt visited Finlandia Fridays this week to promote the multitude of events taking place within the next month. To kick of the episode, Schmidt made an announcement about the Good Friday service that will take place tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the Chapel of Saint Matthew. The service will be an “all-in-one” service to celebrate the sacred holiday of Easter. Doors will be open to all students and any [...]


  • Studying the Biology Degree with Assistant Professor Dr. Emily Geiger

    Dr. Emily Geiger Finlandia Fridays

    Assistant Professor of Biochemistry Dr. Emily Geiger stopped by Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about the biology degree offered at FinnU. This is Dr. Geiger’s second year of teaching at Finlandia. Upon her arrival, both science labs had been newly renovated, thanks to Portage Health System. With the renovations, Dr. Geiger mentioned that students now have their own individual work spaces, and more classes can be offered, like organic chemistry, due to the upgraded equipment.

    Dr. [...]


  • The nursing job search with Alison Patchel

    Alison Patchel Finlandia Fridays

    Soon-to-be nursing graduate Alison Patchel visited Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about her experience at Finlandia, as well as her plans for the future. Patchel is originally from Marysville, a town in the Southeastern part of Michigan. She loves living in the Copper Country because of her love for the outdoors, and said the best time to be in the Copper Country is the summer, when so many students unfortunately decide to go home.

    Patchel started at a different university, [...]


  • Investigating the criminal justice program with Dr. Richard Gee

    Dr.Richard Gee Finlandia Fridays

    Finlandia Fridays dove into the criminal justice program this week with Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Dr. Richard Gee. “The criminal justice program at Finlandia is unique in that we we don’t do any of the stuff that you would get at a police academy or a corrections academy. Instead, what we do is focus on a skill set that is useful for a broad range of careers after graduation.”

    Students in the criminal justice program will take [...]


  • Marketing major Kyle Niemi and his internship with Mesensei mobile mentoring

    Senior marketing major Kyle Niemi stopped by Finlandia Fridays this week to discuss his internship with Finnish mobile mentoring company Mesensei. Tuukka Ylälahti, the creator of Mesensei, was in an earlier episode this season, where he previewed the app and his inspiration behind it.

    Tuukka Ylälahti on Finlandia Fridays Mesensei at Finlandia

    Niemi has been granted a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with Mesensei and create a mentoring app specifically for FinnU. Niemi is the project coordinator for this endeavor. [...]


  • 50th episode celebration with leaders of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes

    Tyler Browner and Jean Pimentel Finlandia Fridays

    This week Finlandia Fridays celebrated the airing of its 50th episode with leaders of a new group on campus, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). Tyler Browner and Jean Pimentel are both active members in the group and came to share their stories of how they ended up at Finlandia and what FCA has done for them. 

    Tyler Browner is a transfer student from Detroit, Michigan.  Originally planning to study in FinnU’s Physical Therapist Assistant [...]


  • Service Learning in Tanzania with Christina Krider and René Johnson

    Christina Krider and Rene Johnson Finlandia Fridays

    Finlandia Fridays received a taste of Africa this week when René Johnson and Christina Krider came to talk about Service and Learning in Tanzania.

    Krider is originally from North Carolina and is a senior in the nursing program. Hearing about Finlandia through softball, Krider played for two years and decided to focus on her demanding studies in the nursing program.  With her countdown set and only four months until graduation, Krider stated that she “can see the light,” and is [...]


  • Finnish intern Mika Tompuri talks about experience in United States

    Mika Tompuri Finlandia Fridays

    Finlandia Fridays was visited this week by the Finnish American Heritage Center’s intern Mika Tompuri. Tompuri hails from Finland, and just recently graduated with his master’s degree in English, German and teacher’s education. “After graduating I was thinking about what to do, and I noticed the National Board of Education in Finland was advertising for these internships, so I figured I might as well apply,” said Tompuri when asked how he wound up at [...]


  • Musician Jonathan Rundman discusses artist in residency for Heikinpäivä

    Jonathan Rundman Finlandia Fridays

    Finlandia Fridays was visited this week by musician Jonathan Rundman. Rundman is the musician in residence this year for Heikinpäivä. Originally from Ishpeming, Rundman currently lives in the Twin Cities and makes a living off being a singer-songwriter. Rundman stated that he always wanted to be a musician, even when he was little, and was glad his career kick started in the 90’s, before streaming was around. Heikinpäivä, and other small festivals, are great for independent artists [...]


  • Travis Cornwell talks communication degree, radio internship and study abroad

    Travis Cornwell Finlandia Fridays

    This week Finlandia Fridays was visited be senior communication major Travis Cornwell. Originally from Minnesota, Cornwell stated “Finlandia kind of found me. I was in Vegas at a showcase for hockey, and they were one of the last schools to look at me, so I decided to give them a chance. I came up here and just absolutely liked it.” Outside of hockey, Cornwell mentioned that he enjoys studying communication, and his advisor Dr. Monique Bourdage [...]


  • Joe Burcar highlights bright future of Finlandia men’s hockey program

    Joe Burcar Finlandia Fridays

    Men’s hockey coach Joe Burcar stopped by Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about home games, new recruits and upgrades to Houghton County Arena. Burcar is excited to be back on home ice, mentioning that the team has not been at home since the second weekend in November. “Any time it’s game day, especially when it’s at home, it’s a great day,” stated Burcar.

    The Lions have three home games within the next five days, playing two conference [...]


  • The Finlandia gridiron with football coach Rob Boss

    Rob Boss Finlandia Fridays

    New head football coach Rob Boss came to chat about the future of Finlandia University football this week on Finlandia Fridays. Boss stated “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here,” when asked about his Finlandia experience thus far. Boss joined Finlandia’s staff last fall as an assistant, and was promoted to head coach on November 6.

    When asked about his first season at Finlandia, Boss said that the “tremendous group of kids” is what really set it apart for him. The [...]


  • Transfer friendly focus discussed with Registrar Jason Sullivan

    Jason Sullivan Finlandia Fridays

    This week Finlandia Fridays was visited by Registrar Jason Sullivan to talk about important moves that will help put Finlandia in a leadership role when it comes to transfer students. President Philip Johnson had this to say about the topic, “Finlandia values the passion, drive and maturity that transfer students offer our campus. In addition to our transfer tuition reset, we are launching a friendlier application process and streamlining our credit transfer process. Blended with up close and [...]


  • Phyllis Fredendall talks fiber, fashion and Brule Scholarship

    Phyllis Fredendall Finlandia Fridays

    Phyllis Fredendall, who is in charge of the fiber and fashion design program at Finlandia, stopped by this week to represent the International School of Art and Design on Finlandia Fridays. The degree, as stated by Fredendall, “encompasses surface design, which is dying and printing on textiles, weaving and off-loom structures, so the foundation of cloth, and garment design.” One of the perks of the program is the annual fashion show that is held along with the student [...]


  • To the Library of Congress and back with Finnish Professor Dr. Hilary Virtanen

    Dr.Hilary Virtanen Finlandia Fridays

    Assistant professor of Finnish and Nordic studies, Dr. Hilary Virtanen dropped by Finlandia Fridays this past week to talk about her busy semester. Dr. Virtanen kicked off the academic year by attending FinnFest USA, which was held in Minneapolis, Minnesota. One of the highlights of the festival this year included an appearance by the Finnish president and his wife.  Dr. Virtanen gave a talk about Finnish-Americans traveling and the experience of going to and connecting to [...]


  • NCHA Offensive Player of the Week Sierra Meiners skates by to talk women’s hockey and nursing

    Senior nursing student and women’s hockey captain, Sierra Meiners visited Finlandia Fridays this week to discuss the women’s hockey team and her final year in the nursing program. Meiners was named the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association’s (NCHA) Offensive Player of the Week this past week. Meiners was honored with the title but more so with the early season success, especially “with two wins under the belt and there are still plenty games to go.” Women’s hockey has [...]


  • Celebrating the Finnish Centennial with Jim Kurtti

    Jim Kurtti Finlandia Fridays

    Finlandia Fridays was visited by another familiar face this week with guest star Jim Kurtti, the director of the Finnish American Heritage Center. Kurtti stopped by to talk about the 100th anniversary celebration of Finnish Independence.

    “It has been a whole year of centennial celebrations, both here in the Copper Country and around the country,” stated Kurtti. The final event will be hosted in the Keewenaw at the Rozsa Center, located on Michigan Tech’s [...]


  • Criminal justice major, Christopher Dennis talks senior capstone and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau internship

    Christopher Dennis Finlandia Fridays

    Finlandia Fridays was visited by an old friend this week, soon to be alumnus, Christopher Dennis to talk about the internship he took this past summer with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Chris first discussed the internship in an episode last spring. Dennis will be graduating at the end of this semester with a degree in criminal justice and sociology. The internship was an opportunity for him to experience the job of a financial examiner [...]


  • Tuukka Ylälahti and his mobile mentoring startup Mesensei come from Finland to Finlandia

    Tuukka Ylalahti Finlanida Fridays

    Tuukka Ylälahti stopped by Finlandia Fridays this week to talk about his revolutionary new app Mesensei. Ylälahti is the co-founder of Mesensei, a startup company working on “mentorship programs in support of learning, entrepreneurship and social inclusion.” The program and Ylälahti have visited various universities in America to see how the program would do in the American market. With close ties to Finland, Finlandia seemed like the obvious choice to lay some ground work.

    Ylälahti started by talking [...]


  • Gina Geliche and Monica Freeman talk Servant Leadership House and It’s On Us events

    Gina Geliche and Monica Freeman

    Finlandia Fridays had its first interview with two guests this season when students Gina Geliche and Monica Freeman stopped by to talk about the Servant Leadership House. The Servant Leadership House is a unique living opportunity for young women on campus. Geliche is in her fourth year in the house, being a member since the inception. Geliche said the experience has been “wonderful, there’s been a lot of involvement with the campus and the community. There’s been a lot [...]


  • Logan Moore talks leadership, community and sisu on Finlandia Fridays

    Logan Moore Finlandia Fridays

    This week Finlandia Fridays is visited by the Student Senate Campus Community Representative Logan Moore. Moore is originally from Traverse City, Michigan, and is in his junior year working towards a degree in business and management. Informing listeners of how he ended up at FinnU, Moore said “I originally went to a much larger college and it didn’t work out there. I decided to move to Finlandia University and immediately right when I got there, the small class sizes were [...]


  • Dr. Virtanen to speak at symposium at Library of Congress

    Finlandia University Assistant Professor of Finnish and Nordic Studies Dr. Hilary Virtanen is going to be one of three panelists Thursday at the Library of Congress for a symposium celebrating the history and future of the Finnish language.

    Dr. Hilary Virtanen

    “It is an honor to take part in this symposium and to use research and experiences with Upper Midwestern Finnish in celebration of Finland’s centennial,” Dr. Virtanen said. “While it is true that many aspects [...]


  • Stepping into Studio Days with Denise Vandeville

    Denise Vandeville Finlandia Fridays

    Finlandia Fridays was visited this week by Denise Vandeville, Dean of the International School of Art and Design (ISAD), to discuss a new opportunity being offered to high school students called Studio Days. Studio Days allows high school students to come in and “try out” the various art programs offered at Finlandia.

    Studio Days will coincide with ISAD’s Studio Fridays. “Studio Fridays is based on parts of the Finnish Design Education System,” said Vandeville. “(The goal is) to set [...]


  • Swinging away with Aubrey Havlichek and Finlandia volleyball

    This week Finlandia Fridays is joined by its first guest from the Finlandia University athletics department, head volleyball coach Aubrey Havlichek. Havlichek is in her first season as head coach for the women’s volleyball team here at Finlandia after taking over as interim coach early during the 2016 season. Initially brought in as an assistant coach, Havlichek was promoted to head coach this past spring, stating that being a head coach for a college team “still hasn’t registered,” but “it’s [...]


  • It’s On Us Week of Action with Erin Barnett on Finlandia Fridays

    This week Finlandia Fridays was visited by Dean of Students Erin Barnett to promote the campus wide It’s On Us campaign. It’s On Us is a national campaign that was started by former Vice President Joe Biden that raises awareness for sexual assault. Finlandia was awarded a grant from the Michigan State Police to advocate the campaign. The grant has allowed Finlandia to hire intern Abigail Tembreull to organize the campaign, and to schedule [...]


  • Falling into Festival Ruska with David Maki

    This week Finlandia Fridays is joined by guest David Maki, who works at the Finnish American Heritage Center (FAHC). Also, based in the Heritage Center is the Finnish American Reporter, where Maki is an editor. The FAHC and the Reporter actively incorporate Finnish culture on campus, in the local area, and to Finnish Americans nationwide. One of the ways Finnish culture is honored in the fall is with Festival Ruska.


  • Collin Saint-Onge previews Finlandia Preview Day

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, Finlandia alumnus and admissions officer Collin Saint-Onge talks about Finlandia Preview Day. Starting at 10 a.m. on October 7, Finlandia Preview Day will take prospective students around the campus to see what life is like at Finlandia. The day will start in the Jutila Center, where students will have the chance to talk to financial aid and admissions. Students will have the opportunity to view the International School [...]


  • Student Senate President Charles Patch kicks off second season of Finlandia Fridays

    This week Finlandia Fridays is joined by Student Senate President Charles Patch. The university was introduced to Patch at opening convocation, which took place on August 27, the Sunday before classes started. As president, Patch explained that senate is a club that is a voice for students on campus, saying that senate is “here for you.” Highly encouraged to take on the mantle of president by previous senate members, Charles is excited to make a difference on [...]


  • Juhannus taken to a whole new level in 2017 discussed on Finlandia Fridays

     

    Since the very beginning of the Finns arriving in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula the summer celebration of Juhannus has been a big part the experience, and this year the Keweenaw is taking that experience to a whole different level thanks to the effort of the staff at the Finnish American Heritage Center. A full dive into this year’s event is the feature of this week’s Finlandia Fridays featuring Director of the Finnish American Heritage Center Jim [...]


  • Student representative Matt McLaughlin on Finlandia Fridays

    On this season’s final episode of Finlandia Fridays, the weekly interview series features student representative Matt McLaughlin. Each year one outstanding senior is chosen as the student rep. To be eligible, a student must maintain a 3.9 GPA and be actively involved with the FinnU campus. 

    It will be a busy weekend for McLaughin, not only will he be graduating with highest honors at Finlandia University he will also be commissioning as an officer in the U.S. Army through [...]


  • Claudia Youakim and Hailee Johnson outline SCAS Capstone Presentations

    This week on Finlandia Fridays, professor Dr. Claudia Youakim and senior sociology major Hailee Johnson join the program to touch on a very compelling capstone project through the Suomi College of Arts & Sciences (SCAS). SCAS Capstones are projects completed and presented upon by students here at Finlandia University. Until now these have been closed to the public, but Finlandia is opening its doors and welcoming anyone to come for the presentations.

    Johnson’s sociology capstone focuses on attitudes [...]


  • Help Finlandia Fridays improve and you might win $20

    What can Finlandia Fridays do better? What did you like best? All questions that the crew at Finlandia Fridays needs answers to, and they’re looking for your help.

    Complete Finlandia Fridays Survey

    The staff of Finlandia Fridays kindly asks you to complete a short survey to help better the program. With participation, you will be entered to win a $20 gift certificate to North Wind Books, our on-campus bookstore. The winner will be announced following the [...]


  • Christopher Dennis talks criminal justice and his internship with government

    This week Finlandia Fridays sits down with criminal justice student and Houghton native Christopher Dennis. After his tenure with the Marines, Dennis was looking for a way to make an impact on the community and remain a leader. His decision was to attend Finlandia University and become heavily involved with campus clubs and other events such as local tutoring. Dennis has recently accepted a unique internship working with the Consumer Financial Protection Agency.

    Per requirement to the criminal justice program here [...]


  • Coach Mo talks basketball and life in the U.P. on Finlandia Fridays

    John Motherwell AKA Coach Mo or as his twitter followers know him @Coach_Mo joined Finlandia University’s ranks this spring as the head coach of the women’s basketball program. This week Finlandia Fridays was able to catch up and learn more about Coach Mo, including diving into his accomplished 18 years of coaching and how he found his way to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

    Coach Mo knew from the jump that he wanted to live and coach in the upper [...]


  • Women Playing Hamlet with DJ Skinner

    The stage is set. Come one come all to Finlandia University’s showing of Women Playing Hamlet. Finlandia Fridays sits down with lead actress DJ Skinner as she prepares for the exciting opportunity to headline a major production.

    The play, Women Playing Hamlet, is a spin of off a Shakespeare classic. The main character Jessica AKA DJ Skinner has recently been cast as the lead roll and continues to encompass all the trials and tribulations a lead actress goes through. “It’s really about [...]


  • Lights, camera, action with Finnish actor Antti Holma

    Finlandia Fridays kicks off the weekend with international superstar Antti Holma. Holma, a 34-year-old Helsinki native, gained popularity after appearing on the 2014 season of the Finnish sketch comedy show “Putous.” That same year, he released his debut novel, titled “Järjestäjä,” and followed that with a book of poetry, “Kauheimmat runot” in 2015. He has also appeared in four feature-length Finnish movies, and several television series. He is most notably recognized for his work on “Putous,” a Finnish show similar to [...]


  • Bridget Durocher runs through Finlandia fitness

    Finlandia Fridays gets fit this week with Bridget Durocher, Finlandia’s cross country coach, senior women administrator in athletics, and strength and conditioning center coordinator.

    Durocher joined Finlandia University nearly one year ago and has never looked back. “It’s phenomenal, it is a place of opportunity where if you put forth the effort, you are going to be given ample opportunities,” said Durocher. Starting off as Finlandia’s head cross country coach, she immediately found success and started to build her team. [...]


  • Swing for the fences with Kassandra Avila and Emily Nguyen

    Kassandra Avila and Emily Nguyen sit down with Finlandia Fridays and hit on everything softball. Avila and Nguyen are both freshmen at Finlandia University and come from the Southern California area.

    Finlandia University’s softball team starts its season every year with an indoor tournament played in Marquette, Michigan, where teams around the country battle it out in an entirely indoor competition. “Starting our season indoors was difficult,” said Nguyen. “We are both from California so [...]


  • Erin Barnett and the Summer Bridge Program

    Interested in experiencing college a bit earlier than the norm? The Finlandia Summer Bridge Program is for you.

    This week Finlandia Fridays speaks with Director of Academic Success and Student Life, Erin Barnett as they dive into the Summer Bridge Program offered here at Finlandia University. The Sumer Bridge Program allows you to earn up to six credits before the fall semester starts. “Taking these classes early gives you a strong foundation heading into the fall semester,” said Barnett.

    This program is focused [...]


  • Opportunity knocked and Keith Arnold answered

    Laying in his dorm room during the first week of school, this week’s Finlandia Fridays guest Keith Arnold could barely sleep. The relative quietness of his surrounding, compared to the freeways and hustle and bustle of his hometown of Detroit was almost all encompassing to the 18-year-old Finlandia University freshman. That didn’t last long though.

    Soon it was Student Senate (Vice President as a junior, President as a senior), NCAA Division III Basketball, Black Student Union, study abroad to Europe [...]


  • Sandra Turnquist provides advice on how to best navigate Financial Aid

    On this installment of Finlandia Fridays Director of Student Financial Services Sandra Turnquist speaks all things financial aid. Turnquist outlines a two new financial aid opportunities to Finlandia students, the U.P. Commitment Grant and Service Scholarship. She also touches on Finlandia’s frozen tuition for the upcoming year. Outside of the announcement, Turnquist highlights that the priority deadline that is quickly approaching. Michigan recommends that all financial aid forms be submitted by March 1, so that all possible financial aid options are still [...]


  • The life of a nursing student explored in Finlandia Fridays

    This week Finlandia Fridays is joined by senior nursing student Laura Kent, who was featured in the fall 2016 edition of the Bridge. Finlandia University has long been known for its nursing program, and Kent found it to live up to the reputation. As a nursing student with a full-time job Kent has faced some difficulties, but will be graduating this May in excellent standings. The promise of a meaningful career after school motivated her to continue with the [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays studies abroad with Schwartzen Jarmond

    This week on Finlandia Fridays host Michael H. Babcock is taken on a reminiscent adventure as management and entrepreneurship student Schwartzen Jarmond looks back on international study opportunities presented through Finlandia University.

    In May of 2015 Jarmond first traveled to Finland as a part of the Paloheimo Fellows Program and enjoyed it to the extent he had to go again. After working with Finlandia University he decided to study in Finland for an entire semester as an [...]


  • Find Finlandia Fridays on Stitcher

    Finlandia Fridays has expanded to Stitcher.

    You read it correct, Finlandia Fridays, the university’s weekly web series and podcast, has expanded to yet another platform for you to enjoy its weekly episodes. What is Stitcher you might ask? Stitcher is a personalized smart radio that tailors shows to your liking by presenting you with similar content to your listening history.

    “Being on every platform for our audience is huge,” said Finlandia Fridays host Michael H. Babcock. “It allows for the [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays with Board of Trustees President

    This week Finlandia Fridays sits down with Board of Trustees President Julie Badel. Badel was in town, from Chicago, for the annual winter Board of Trustees meeting. She explains her joy of coming to the Upper Peninsula every year as it is where her mother grew up. It is a place she has grown to love and she “never complains about coming up here. It feels like home.”

    Badel became interested in Finlandia University while attending the


  • Abigail Tembreull highlights the Art and Design Program

    On this week’s episode of Finlandia Fridays we are joined by guest Abigail Tembreull. Tembreull discusses an upcoming event, an art competition scholarship she was awarded that included free tuition in Italy, the fact that she was awarded the Brule Scholarship to attend FinnU and other experiences she has encountered during her three years in Finlandia’s International School of Art and Design.

    One of many events that the Art and Design program facilitates throughout the year is the [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays discusses MLK Day of Service with René Johnson

    This week on Finlandia Fridays host Michael H. Babcock speaks with René Johnson highlighting Finlandia University’s community involvement on MLK Day of Service (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day). She briefly touches on the history of the holiday and how it came to be as well as Finlandia’s service throughout the day.

    Finlandia University offers numerous service activities during the day including a worship service, guest speakers, dining services, and a closing film. Finlandia [...]


  • Chef Mark highlights community and Winter Welcome

    Chef Mark Pittillo on Finlandia Fridays

    The small town charm and beautiful natural surroundings had Mark Pittillo smitten for Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula, and now after living here for more than half a decade it’s the people that “Chef Mark” appreciates most. Especially the students he’s surrounded by at Finlandia University.

    Mark Pittillo, Food Service Director at Finlandia University.

    “Never did I imagine it would be as rewarding as it has been,” Pittillo said about his experience working at Finlandia. “The kids are incredible. I appreciate them on [...]


  • Brule Art Scholarship announced on Finlandia Fridays

    Art Scholarship Discussed on Finlandia Fridays

    Today on the Finlandia Fridays we have some big news!

    Finlandia University announces six $20,000 scholarships for students interested in studying art and design. These art scholarships are made available because of the generous support Finlandia University has received from Elsa and David Brule. To help make this announcement, this week’s guest is Denise Vandeville. Vandeville is the Dean of FinnU’s International School of Art & Design.

    “The Brules have been huge supporters of the arts, and friends of the [...]


  • Online RN-BSN featured on Finlandia Fridays

    As a nursing school, it’s important for Finlandia to continue to evolve its offerings to make sure students are provided the opportunities they need. That was the thought when the university created a RN-BSN program in the early 2000s, and it’s the thought that keeps that program going strong today in its latest evolution: the university’s first fully accredited 100 percent online program.

    In this week’s edition of Finlandia Fridays, the RN-BSN program is explored with Program Director Mark [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays explores art therapy

    This week Finlandia Fridays speaks with  art therapy major Laurin LaBonte. Art therapy is a unique major offered at Finlandia that was first made available in 2013. This major has a wide range of uses as LaBonte outlines it can help immensely with Alzheimer patients, those suffering from PTSD, and even patients recovering from car accidents. Art has been found to carry numerous therapeutic properties that can aid in emotional behavior and even motor skills with Alzheimer patients.

    LaBonte will [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays speaks with local transfer student

    This installment of Finlandia Fridays features a local student by the name of Samantha Richards who transferred into Finlandia from a larger institution. Richards, a Dollar Bay alum who is majoring in accounting, was asked to be apart of this week’s episode because of one of her latest Instagram posts.  “This post was touching to some of the staff at Finlandia,” said Michael H. Babcock, host of Finlandia Fridays.

    Finlandia University strives to be the university you are looking for and [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays hits the ice with Joe Burcar

    This week on Finlandia Fridays we feature Finlandia’s men’s ice hockey coach Joe Burcar as he previews the future of the program and the ongoing season. The Houghton County Arena is a very familiar place for Burcar, winning the Harris Cup in 2007 and finishing his first stint with the team at a 104-96-11 record. Burcar remains the all-time winningest coach in program history, and plans to continue his legacy.

    Burcar says his choice to move back and [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays Explores the Paloheimo Fellows Program

    On this installment of Finlandia Fridays special guest Dr. Hilary Virtanen discusses the Paloheimo Fellows Program with host Michael H. Babcock. This program offers a unique and special experience that allows four lucky Finlandia students (of any major) the opportunity to study abroad in Tampere, Finland. This program runs for three weeks every May and is guided by Finnish expert Dr. Virtanen. In Finland students will gain knowledge on social scientific techniques to observe and analyze the [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays dives into PTA program

    This week on Finlandia Fridays host Michael H. Babcock discusses the Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) program offered at Finlandia University with soon-to-be graduate Devin Smith. In this installment of Finlandia Fridays, Smith outlines his personal experiences here at Finlandia University and during his time in the PTA program. Smith touches on topics including his first experiences at Finlandia, his personal involvement in the PTA program and the PTA Club – including Saturday’s Soup for Sneakers event at the Finnish American [...]


  • Campus Ministry covered in this week’s Finlandia Fridays

    This week on Finlandia Fridays we feature Campus Pastor Soren Schmidt about the ins and outs of Campus Ministry here at Finlandia. In this episode Schmidt outlines the various campus ministry happenings revolving around the organization here on Campus. He goes into depth on events hosted by the folks involved with the ministry on campus including Campus Ministry Soup & Meet, Sunday Night Open Mic & Worship, and of course chapel services.

    Campus Ministry aims to [...]


  • Preview Day highlighted in first episode of Finlandia Fridays

    Travis Hanson

    This week on Finlandia Fridays we speak with Director of Admissions Travis Hanson about the upcoming Finlandia Preview Day 2016. In this episode Hanson outlines what exactly Preview Day is, and what it means for recruitment within the university. Preview Day is aimed at incoming students by showing them around campus, including tours of the dorms, classrooms and extracurricular spaces while providing them with a fun and memorable experience.

    Those taking place in Preview Day can [...]


  • Finlandia Fridays rolls out the red carpet

    Finlandia Fridays Logo

    The stage is set and the cameras are rolling, Finlandia Fridays is prepped to air this upcoming Friday!

    Director of Marketing and Communications Michael H. Babcock and Media Intern Walker Enstad introduce this exciting new web series and discuss what Finlandia Fridays is and how it works.

    This unique platform introduces a vastly new way for students, staff and the community alike to receive information surrounding Finlandia University and the Upper Peninsula. In addition to being able to [...]

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