Lecturer of the Year Application and Guidelines

NOTE: All LOY arrangements are subject to change due to COVID-19 conditions. 

Thank you for your interest in the FFN Lecturer of the Year. Author Hanna Pylväinen is our current LOY (January 1-December 31, 2024).

The deadline to apply for LOY 2025 is October 1, 2024.

LOY 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.

Note: the information provided here is for your information only and may change for LOY 2025.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

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.

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

LECTURER AGREEMENT

The following will be subject to change based on COVID-related travel restrictions that may affect the number of recorded and live presentations. 

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.

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.

HONORARIUM

The LOY’s honorarium will be paid by the chapter/host organization directly to the LOY. Each LOY suggests a desired honorarium/performance fee.

Most chapters charge an admission fee to help cover the cost of hosting the LOY.