FFN Seeks Nominations/Applications for LOY 2023

With the current “Finn Cooks” Soile Anderson and Eleanor Ostman wrapping up their Lecturer of the Year appearances at the end of 2022—their term was extended due to the COVID-19 situation—we have begun the search for the next LOY for January through December of 2023.

We are opening an application process in order to better identify people who are interested in presenting their expertise to audiences across the United States.

Topics must relate to Finnish America or some aspect of Finnish culture in the U.S. Since the program launched in 2006, LOY have presented films, book talks, programs about history, architecture, folkways, music and more.

Click here for information on past LOY 

Applicants must be recommended by another party/parties, with written letters of support/nomination. Chapter members are encouraged to identify potential lecturers and let them know about the program. 

Payment Agreement
The LOY’s travel expenses to engagements organized by/for the FFN chapters within the United States are covered by the FFN travel grant of up to $8000. One-half of the total amount budgeted by FFN is paid to the LOY at the beginning of the term; the balance will be paid upon approval of the accounting, reports and plans for the engagement and travel schedule.

Lecturer Agreement
The LOY commits to a minimum of eight (8) chapter events during the term, and will schedule companion workshop(s) whenever possible. The LOY will work directly with chapters/host organizations to confirm appearance dates and details

The application period for the 2023 LOY is open through October 1, 2022.

Applications include the form, letters of recommendation and materials demonstrating the applicant’s suggested topic and approach to presentation.

Click here for more information and the LOY nomination/application form

Anyone with questions is welcome to contact LOY Chair Hilary Virtanen, at hilary.virtanen @ finlandia.edu.