Saving Finland In America

In March of 2023, Finlandia Foundation National stepped in to preserve the cultural assets previous held by Finlandia University.

One year later, with the help and financial contributions of more than 900 individuals and supportive organizations, the preservation of the history of Finnish America looks secure.

Read more about the effort of the FFN Board of Directors, led by FFN President Anne-Mari Paster, at the links below, and watch the video about the tremendous effort that made this happen. Go to our YouTube channel for the full story by clicking here:

Click Here for the One Year Later Video

FFN Steps in to Preserve Cultural Assets Previously Held by Finlandia University

Finlandia University, founded in 1896 as Suomi College in Hancock, Michigan, announced its decision on March 2, 2023, to not enroll students for the 2023-2024 academic year. It was the only remaining institution of higher learning in North America founded by Finns.

Upon learning of the decision, the board of Finlandia Foundation National acted to assume responsibility for the many cultural assets of the university, and on June 15, FFN’s offer was accepted. The organization is now the caretaker of the Finnish American Heritage Center and its extensive archives and artifacts, the monthly Finnish American Reporter, the Finnish American Folk School, the Art Gallery, War Museum and North Wind Books store.

Quote from Anne-Mari Paster, FFN president

“This is a positive outcome for what could have been an unacceptable fate for these precious materials, programs and resources,” says Anne-Mari Paster, FFN president. “This marks not the end, but the beginning of a new and meaningful project. We have our work to do in caring for these heritage items and planning for their future.

“It is absolutely compatible with why Finlandia Foundation was founded 70 years ago. We are here to preserve our roots in Finland, and at the same time build on that connection with the current and future generations. We consider this new purpose an honor and duty.”