Meet Mariana Nakashima, new Administrative Assistant for ISB and SCAS

Joining Finlandia’s staff this fall as the new Administrative Assistant for the International School of Business (ISB) and Suomi College of Arts and Sciences (SCAS) is Mariana Nakashima.

Nakashima attended the University of Toledo while attaining her industrial engineering degree with a concentration in ergonomics. Bringing along years of experience in time management, policies and procedures from work in the auto industry, Nakashima also has experience in teaching Art and Spanish.

“Since I moved to the Keweenaw seven years ago, I have found this area fascinating and full of potential,” Nakashima said. “I believe that Finlandia University plays a key role in realizing this potential through continued growth in the student population and research publications. Education is the main door to open possibilities. Education is not only about academics, however, but also about growing the whole person. Learning to appreciate the community and the people and cultures around us allows us to grow and enriches our experiences.”

Nakashima said it is fulfilling to be part of the team at ISB and SCAS and is looking forward to providing administrative support to the schools’ deans and faculty.

When she’s not at work, Nakashima enjoys a diverse collection of hobbies including walks along the shores of Lake Superior, berry-picking in Chassell, baking sourdough pizza in her outdoor wood-oven and most recently picking up the art of sewing. Embracing the Upper Peninsula, Nakashima enjoys riding her bike, walking trails with her dogs, kayaking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 

“I also enjoy painting, especially large-size portraits and paintings of architecture and murals. I involved my students to paint 3 large murals in the town of Chassell and 7 murals inside the school.”

Mariana Nakashima can be found at Mannerheim Room 410 and reached via email at mariana.nakashima@finlandia.edu.