Bridge Feature: Finlandia University Management Team

Curtis Wittenberg, Cyril FoxPetrov, Dr. Luke Morrill,
Anthony Schwass, Dr. Fredi de Yampert, President Tim Pinnow, Teresa Hill, Kailee Laplander

The president’s Executive Management Team provides collaborative and strategic leadership to ensure the fulfillment of the university’s mission, uphold its core values and vision, and manage its operations. Governed by the Board of Trustees, Finlandia is led by President Timothy Pinnow and directed by a team of academic and administrative leaders, including: Curtis Wittenberg, Director of Athletics; Cyril FoxPetrov, Director of Finance; Dr. Fredi de Yampert, VP for Academic Affairs; Teresa Hill, Director of Human Resources; and alumna Kailee Laplander (’12), Executive Assistant to the President and Advancement. Together, they advise the president on the university’s critical needs, challenges and opportunities. 

Guided by a passion for higher learning and an inherently deep commitment to our mission, Dr. Luke Morrill shepherds the student experience at Finlandia, bringing over 17 years of experience to the team. 

“My first year at Finlandia has been incredibly rewarding,” said Morrill, VP for Student Development and Dean of Students. “Everyday I get to collaborate with an outstanding student development staff and dedicated campus stakeholders to develop and implement student support and engagement initiatives.”

Amidst its seemingly undefinable qualities, the team embraces the Finnish term sisu. No stranger to the concept is Dean of Enrollment Anthony Schwass, who leads a trio of departments at Finlandia, including admissions, communications, and student financial services. Born in Hancock, Schwass was celebrated for his successes at Davenport University before enthusiastically returning to his hometown. 

“Finlandia’s commitment to service and excellence is what truly brought me back to the Copper Country. From my first campus visit, I could see the staff and faculty’s passion for developing students and preparing them for the future. The beauty of the region is reflected in the dedication I see from our campus community each day, and I take great pride in how efficiently we have implemented those ideals into our processes.”

Faculty, staff, and alumni all play essential roles in the governance of Finlandia University and are important partners in sustaining the future of our 126-year-old institution.

Article originally shared in the Bridge Magazine 2022, Volume 75.

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