Spring 2010 - Finlandia University

From the President
P H I L I P J O H N S O N
elcome to the spring 2010 issue of the Finlandia University Bridge! You will notice a different
look: a new cover design, new headers and arrangement, new colors and graphics. The Bridge
may also feel a bit heavier in your hands; it’s eight pages longer. We want to say more and we
want to say it well. Because it’s not simply what we say that counts, it’s how we say it. And what is true
for Finlandia’s magazine is true for Finlandia.
Here at Finlandia, our form, our “how” if you will, we describe as “uncommon attention.” With this idea
we are committing ourselves—in a very serious way—to a rigorous re-thinking and re-ordering of our lives
together as a learning community. Even as Finlandia presses toward distinctive academic content (including
niche curricula and programs), we must all-the-more embrace a form that sets us apart. In other words,
my conviction is that Finlandia’s institutional distinctive is to be found beyond rigorous academic content.
We must distinguish ourselves beyond academically rigorous syllabi, courses, and curricula. These are
essential, but they are just the beginning. They are necessary, but incomplete. There must be more.
Content counts—don’t get me wrong. But Finlandia’s students will achieve lasting success and personal
growth because of the form of our educational commitments; that is, they will succeed and grow not simply
because of what is taught, but through how we teach, how we accompany, how we mentor and model.
This idea becomes our way of being. It becomes an organizational principle around which we order our
professional lives. It requires imaginative definition, creative but disciplined practice, and continuous
assessment. And, when most fully realized, this idea builds on Finlandia’s strengths, meets the needs and
expectations of Finlandia students, and sets us apart.
Finlandia’s institutional posture of uncommon attention is grounded in authentic expressions of serving the
student, not simply expanded “student services.” As colleges and universities scramble to attract students
with costly and ever-new amenities and services, Finlandia must invest in personnel who believe and
enthusiastically embrace that such a posture has a place in higher education.
In the following pages, Finlandia students and alumni will share with you their successes while at Finlandia
and as Finlandia alumni. I think you will hear an accent on the “how.” It is all that they experienced
beyond the content that mattered most to them. It was the form: academic rigor delivered with rigorous
accompaniment. We are committed to both. What will truly set us apart, however, rests with the latter.
This, I believe, is Finlandia’s truest self. This is who we are and the posture that will most fully realize our
potential as a distinctive institution of higher learning.
Philip Johnson, Ph.D.
President

a l u m n i
n e w s
2 Nursing Is My Life
5 The Best of the Best
6 A Major Step Forward
page 14
Meisha Bray, Class of 2010
Valedictorian, joined 86 fellow
graduates at Commencement
exercises May 2.
12 Success, Community Service, and a Flower Shop
14 2010 Commencement
19 A Passion for Hockey … and for Life
20 Soft Skills: Building Blocks for Professional Values
25 Key Staff Members Influence Student Success
26 Faculty Entrepreneurship Fellows
28 A Letter to the Bridge from an Artist at Heart
page 20
30 In Trying Times, Don’t Quit Trying
PTA students self-assess generic
abilities to build professional values.
h e r i t a g e c e n t e r . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
• A Finnish American Icon
www.finlandia.edu
page 26
Graphic Design juniors created
a series of “art kits” as a social
entrepreneurship project.
c a m p u s n e w s . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-11
• A selection of notable university news
a d v a n c e m e n t . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 - 18
• A Cross Illuminated in Remembrance
• An Endowment to Remember a Cherished Daughter
a t h l e t i c s n e w s . . . . . . . . . . 22 - 24
• Awards and Accomplishments
• A Valuable Journey for Nemi Jankovic
a l u m n i n o t e s . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 - 33
• Do you have a minute, or maybe a little more
• Scott Dickson: A Copper Country Blessing
Karen S. Johnson, Editor
Executive Director of Communications
Brad Beaudette, Art Director
Director of Publications
the Bridge
Finlandia University
601 Quincy Street
Hancock, MI 49930
karen.johnson@finlandia.edu
800-682-7604
the Bridge • Spring 2010
Volume 63 No. 1
the Bridge is published
periodically by Finlandia
University.
Contents ©
Finlandia University, 2010
All rights reserved
Cover Photo
Class of 2010 Nursing graduates Christina Andres
(Grand Rapids) and Roxanne McCabe (Laurium)
To receive Finlandia’s bi-weekly
electronic newsletter, e-mail
karen.johnson@finlandia.edu.
www.finlandia.edu 1

Did you receive both your ADN and BSN from Finlandia
I did, and in fact I have three degrees from Finlandia. I graduated summa cum laude in
2000 with an associate degree in education, and gave the Valedictorian speech. I won the
Sampo and Sisu Awards in 2000, and was named to Who’s Who Among College Students
in 2000, 2004, 2005, and 2007. In 2004, I graduated cum laude with an associate degree
in nursing, and in 2007 completed my BSN, also cum laude.
Did you participate in the RN-to-BSN degree completion program
I did complete the RN-to-BSN program. It was extremely convenient to do a
hybrid/online program. Even better, because I did my ADN program at Finlandia, all of
my credits transferred. I highly recommend it to all previous Finlandia ADN graduates.
Why did you decide to complete a BSN Why did you choose Finlandia
I decided after I graduated with my ADN that I was going to take my nursing education
to the highest level possible, which meant I first had to obtain my BSN. I would like to see
nursing get the credit it deserves as a scholarly profession, and that will happen as more
people obtain higher degrees. I can’t imagine my life without nursing in it, and this is one
way for me to express my appreciation for all of the opportunities nursing has given me.
The theme of this Bridge issue is “Uncommon Attention.” Describe some of your experiences.
The first person who comes to mind is Rose Hooper, who went above and beyond in
getting me into the exchange program at the Porvoo Institute in Finland in 1998-99.
Second, Finlandia’s RN-to-BSN program was new to both me and Fredi (deYampert), but
Fredi was with me every step of the way to ensure that I was progressing as one should. I
make it a point to stay in contact with Fredi, as she taught me how to be successful in
learning, even at the graduate level.
Tell me about what you are doing now.
Right now, I’m working full-time as a staff nurse in an ICU at a hospital in the northern
Bay Area of San Francisco. It’s a great place to work, and the experience with
telemedicine has been incredible. Nursing has an extremely progressive, unified, and
organized front here in California, which is very exciting to be a part of. I’m also going
to school full-time to finish my master’s in nursing informatics at Walden University. In
January 2010, I accepted an adjunct clinical instructor position in the ADN program at
Santa Rosa Junior College, which is two nights a week. I’m also helping out in their new
simulation lab, which has been a blast! I am loving all of the technology that is being
introduced into nursing programs. Nursing is an extremely technical profession, and
students entering the profession today must be prepared for the high-paced
technological environment.
When did you arrive in California Will you stay there awhile
I originally came to California on a travel nursing assignment in 2008. Once I saw the
great opportunities for nurses, I decided to stay for awhile. I relocated to Santa Rosa in
October 2009. I don’t plan on leaving anytime soon!
What nursing specialties do you pursue
Right now, I’m working in the ICU, but I’ve also worked in the ER, done some endoscopy,
and gained supervisory experience. Through my employer, I am studying for the Certified
Critical Care Nurse (CCRN) exam. My real passion in nursing is the field of Informatics
and Health Technology. I want to be involved in making sure all hospitals are utilizing
electronic medical records (EMR). I believe that increased utilization of efficient healthcare
technology can improve the access, cost, and quality of healthcare.
2 the Bridge • Spring 2010

What has been your favorite nursing assignment so far
One of my favorite nursing assignments was working in
Dillingham, Alaska, which is in the southwest corner of the
state. The only way to get there was by plane. I was working
at an Indian Health Service (IHS) facility that served as a
regional medical center for 50 villages. I worked mostly with
the Yu’pik population, who were absolutely amazing. I loved
learning about their language and culture. It was interesting
to see the different trends in healthcare there, too, in light of
the trends I’d observed in the lower 48 states.
What are the challenges and rewards of your busy lifestyle
Time management is the huge challenge for me. However,
nursing is my life right now. The fact that I am involved in a
variety of activities (instructor, student, staff nurse) gives me
a great sense of pride in my profession and motivates me to
push through the busy times.
What are your career goals
Once I finish my master’s in January 2011, I plan to work on
the development of comprehensive electronic medical
records. With the new provisions in the American Recovery
and Reinvestment Act of 2009, health information
technology is soon going to need a lot of attention. I’m also
in the process of looking into Ph.D. programs.
What do you like to do when you’re not working or studying
I try to stay fit, so I do a lot of outdoor activities here in
California (jogging, hiking, etc.). It’s very motivating when
the weather is always nice. Also, I’ve been dabbling in
learning Spanish. It’s coming along slowly, but I’m learning
the basics. Oh, and I love to cook whenever I can. I can really
throw it down in the kitchen!!
What is your home town
I grew up in Mohawk. My mother is the late Judith (Wilks)
Kivela, and my father is the late Jack Kivela. I graduated
from Calumet High School in 1994.
Do you have Finnish roots
My great grandparents on my father’s side came from
northern Finland, and my great grandparents on my mom’s
maternal side also had roots in Finland. I have distant
cousins in Finland that I stayed with while I was there, and I
still keep in touch with them.
Do you miss the U.P.
I definitely miss my friends and family the most. And I
absolutely love the summers in the U.P., there is no other
place I’d rather be during the summer. I definitely enjoy a
good sauna, swimming in Lake Superior, and a bonfire on
the beach with friends and family. That’s hard to find
anywhere else!
Did others in your family attend Finlandia
Yes, my twin sister, Jennifer, graduated in 2006 with a B.A.
in Rural Human Services. She also participated in the
Servant Leadership program, traveling to Tanzania in May
2006.
Is there anything else you’d like to add
I would like to thank all of my former instructors and
professors at Finlandia. Their wisdom, experience, undivided
attention, and guidance have truly inspired me to be a
successful person in my profession. I’m very proud to be a
Finlandia alumnus!!!
Jordan Kivela
www.finlandia.edu 3

h e r i t a g e
c e n t e r
A FINNISH AMERICAN ICON
In early January, students in Finlandia instructor Kaisa
Randolph’s Finnish class were discussing Finnish folk
characters like St. Urho and Heikki Lunta. When asked to
name some icons of Finnish-American culture, one student’s
immediate answer was, “Melvin.”
While perhaps not a mythical snow god or countrywide
grasshopper exterminator, Melvin has made countless
contributions to Finnish-American music and theater. A
Suomi College graduate, he has been a faculty member at the
school for more than four decades.
If not for one particular lesson in a Suomi College music
class, however, Melvin might not have embarked on a career
journey that put him on a one-name basis with fans of
Finnish and Finnish-American culture.
“When I was a student at Suomi, I had a class in music
appreciation taught by Arthur Hill,” Kangas explained. “In
this class, we heard a kantele and I said I really liked the
sound and wanted to learn to play it. He said ‘you won’t be
able to do that unless you go to Finland.’”
So Melvin did. After completing bachelor’s and master’s
degrees in music composition at the University of Michigan,
he came back to Suomi for a visit and saw a poster for a
Finlandia Foundation scholarship. Melvin entered—and won.
“And I got to study at the Sibelius Academy,” he said. “When
all of that was done, I came back here and started teaching.
I’ve been here ever since.”
Melvin Kangas
Photo by Ironwoodinfo.com
Kangas is currently an adjunct associate professor of music at
Finlandia, providing instruction on the kantele and directing
the university’s annual fall play, which often has a Finnish or
Finnish-American theme. For instance, his fall 2009 play,
“Niskavuoren Naiset” (The Women of Niskavuori), is a
Finnish play which Melvin and his troupe translated into
English. Melvin hopes to direct the same play this summer at
Finn Grand Fest 2010 in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. The word
is that Melvin is translating a sequel by the same Finnish
author for performance this fall.
This story includes substantial contributions from David Maki,
assistant editor of the Finnish American Reporter.
FINLANDIA UNIVERSITY GALLERY 2010 Exhibit Calendar
April 27 to June 2 - International School of Art & Design: 2010 Diploma Works Exhibition
Featuring the work of graduating BFA students.
June 10 to August 7 - Aino Martikainen: On the Wide Waters • Opening reception: June 10, 7:00 p.m.
An exhibit of photographs of Finland’s Lake Oulujärvi, Oulu Province, inspired by the seventh poem of the Kalevala.
August 12 to September 11 - Carole Harris: Improvisations • Closing reception: September 9, 7:00 p.m.
Carole Harris’s colorful and complex quilts evoke the rhythms, energy, and movement found in African-American music, particularly Blues and Jazz.
FINNISH AMERICAN HERITAGE CENTER DIRECTORY
The Finnish American Heritage Center houses an art gallery, theater, museum, historical archive, genealogical research center,
the office of the Finnish American Reporter (FAR), and the Upper Peninsula office of the Consulate General of Finland.
James Kurtti, Director, FAHC; Editor, FAR; Consulate General/906-487-7302/james.kurtti@finlandia.edu
David Maki, Assistant Editor, FAR/906-487-7549/david.maki@finlandia.edu
Kent Randell, Archivist, Finnish American Historical Archive/906-487-7347/kent.randell@finlandia.edu
Carrie Flaspohler, Director, Finlandia University Gallery/906-487-7500/carrie.flaspohler@finlandia.edu
4 the Bridge • Spring 2010

Megan, Kevin, and Gracen Goke
“Sales is my passion,” says Kevin Goke, 2006 Finlandia
University Business program graduate. Kevin, now 26, began
a career with AT&T three years ago and is advancing quickly.
He says his quest is to be the best of the best, doing it better
than anyone else.
This January, Kevin began managing his own AT&T store in
Shelby, N. C., following several years at an AT&T location
in Louisville, Ky. He now manages a team of seven sales
representatives, a sales support representative, and an
assistant manager.
“My responsibilities include, but are not limited to, staffing,
coaching, motivating, scheduling, merchandising, resolving
customer escalations, and managing a multimillion dollar
location to our audit compliance,” he explains.
What Kevin likes best about his position is the respect he gets
from others as he leads them to higher levels of success, along
with opportunities for personal and career growth.
“AT&T is a company that continues to grow year after year,
providing young people like me advancement
opportunities,” Kevin says. “It is the largest communication
company in the world. AT&T’s vision is to connect people
to their world, everywhere they live and work, and do it
better than anyone else. Our mission is to be the most highly
regarded wireless provider in the world, with a driving focus
on best-in-class sales and service.”
Prior to his current position, Kevin worked for AT&T as parttime
seasonal sales support, a sales representative, and an
assistant manager, as well as in sales for a small third party
company that was contracted by AT&T to market home
services.
He says his work presents an opportunity, each day, to be the
best of the best. His job comes with challenges, too,
including managing several different areas of the business,
and at the same time managing several different
personalities, all while maintaining a high level of results.
Kevin identifies opportunities for relationship building as a
major strength of the Finlandia Business program. “The
small classes at Finlandia help students learn to build
relationships and problem solve,” he says. “And the
internships I completed taught me how to build productive
relationships with people I didn’t know.”
“College helps people know how to think for themselves,”
Kevin adds. “It’s important to learn to find the answers
yourself, rather than relying on others to find them for you.”
For others who plan to pursue a business career, Kevin offers
this advice, “Keep focused and be patient with your career
early on. Sometimes you’ll question your own abilities, but if
you envision your success and work hard toward your goals,
you’ll do just fine.”
“When you first get out of school, you expect to be able to
make an immediate impact on corporate America,” Kevin
continues. “I’ve grown personally and professionally since I
graduated. I’ve learned that if you work hard and stay focused
on a goal, you'll make a major impact, but it does take time.”
Within five years, Kevin hopes to have his own AT&T sales
district. Then he wants to move into sales operations,
marketing, or advertising. Long term, he’d like to be a vice
president or senior manager of one of those departments within
AT&T. He plans to complete a master’s degree within ten years.
Kevin graduated from Houghton High School in 2002. He
played basketball, baseball, and soccer at Finlandia, and in
2006 completed a B.B.A. with a concentration in marketing.
He is the son of Evelyn Goke, Houghton, and the late Gary
Goke.
Kevin and his wife, Megan, recently welcomed a baby
daughter, Gracen, who was born October 29, 2009.
www.finlandia.edu 5

Finlandia University is pleased to
announce that the university’s Elementary
Education program has completed the second of three
steps leading to full program accreditation by receiving
probationary approval from the Michigan State Board of
Education.
“This is a major step forward for the program and, most
importantly, for our students,” says Judith Budd, dean of
Finlandia’s Suomi College of Arts & Sciences. “Finlandia
faculty members have worked tirelessly to move this program
forward toward accreditation.”
“This important step allows us to directly grant the bachelor
of arts in elementary education to our graduates,” adds
Budd. “Until now Concordia University, our mentor
institution, has conferred the elementary education degree
on our behalf.”
“The probationary approval means a great deal to me,
because instead of receiving a degree from Concordia, the
degree is from Finlandia University,” says Elementary
Education senior Justin Buzzo, Ontonagon. “I have put a
great deal of effort into the school, from school work and
field experiences, to many different clubs and organizations.
Finlandia has helped me grow into a person who can handle
teaching a classroom full of students. I wouldn’t want any
other university’s name on my diploma.”
Laurene Ziegler, chair of the Elementary Education program
since fall 2000, explains that probationary approval comes with
more responsibility, and allows the Elementary Education
program to operate independently. Among other things,
Lisa Harden, a Class of 2009 Elementary
Education graduate. Lisa is currently teaching
Kindergarden for Baraga Public Schools.
Finlandia now has the privilege of recommending our
graduates for Michigan Department of Education certification.
“The first two steps in the accreditation process have made
our program much stronger, and probationary approval
bolsters our image and credibility within the educational
community,” Ziegler adds.
Of course, the program could not have accomplished the first
two state accreditation steps alone. Ziegler says the ongoing
support of local public schools, particularly as student teaching
sites, has been critical to the sustained success of both the
Elementary Education program and the program’s graduates.
“The uncommon opportunities given to Finlandia students
in the local classrooms make our program unique,” says
Elementary Education senior Ally Tincknell, Negaunee. “I
have learned a lot of very key things about what teaching will
be like. I have taught in a classroom and loved every part of
it! I believe that I am ready to begin my teaching career
because I have actually done it. I can’t wait to have a
classroom and use what I have learned and experienced.”
Buzzo’s experience in the El Ed program has also been a great
one. “I have learned to use a curriculum, teach all the main
four subjects, assess students, and more,” he says. “My
graduating class is rather small at eight, but this allowed me
to become close to my teachers and my classmates.”
6 the Bridge • Spring 2010

“President Johnson has also been very
supportive of the program, especially in
regard to our technology needs,” Ziegler
notes. “One year after he became
Finlandia’s president, we had the
technology classroom we needed to move
forward in the accreditation process.”
“The integration of technology into our
classes has been growing since I have
been at Finlandia,” confirms Tincknell.
“This is very exciting because technology
is a huge part of the future and will be in
our future classrooms. The experience I
have gained working with technology to
create lesson plans will help me utilize it
in my future classrooms.”
Finlandia’s Elementary Education K-8
teacher training program was established
in the fall of 2001. To date, 63 have
graduated from the program, beginning
with the Class of 2003. The program
boasts a 93% overall passing rate on the
Michigan teacher certification test.
Currently, 31 Elementary Education
program alumni are employed in the
Upper Peninsula as teachers or in related
positions, such as AmeriCorps.
Fourteen of the graduates are employed
as teachers in other states, from
downstate Michigan and Minnesota, to
Arizona, Wyoming, and Alaska. Two
alumni have completed master’s degrees
in education, and three others are
currently pursuing advanced degrees.
Finlandia will be eligible to apply for full
State of Michigan accreditation in three
years. Upon final approval, Finlandia
must pursue and gain national
accreditation within five years through
one of two national accrediting bodies.
“The experience that I
have had with the
Elementary Education
program has been
wonderful!”
– Ally Tincknell
Ally Tincknell
“The experience that I have had with the
Elementary Education program has been
wonderful! I have been in the classrooms
interacting with children since my freshman year.
I taught a gym class my freshman year, observed in
classrooms three hours per week my sophomore
year, and taught one lesson per week the first
semester of my junior year. During the second
semester of my junior year, I had the uncommon
opportunity to teach full Tuesdays. In my senior
year I have had the opportunity to work with
special needs students. All of these experiences
have assured me that this is definitely the right
career for me, and they have taught me a lot about
what it will to take to be a successful teacher.”
Ally Tincknell, the daughter of Dale and Diane Tincknell, graduated from
Negaunee High School in 2006. Ally’s El Ed minors are English and
science. She is president of the Student Senate, co-president of the
Elementary Education Club, and captain of the women’s basketball team.
Her immediate career goals are to become an upper elementary teacher and
a girls’ basketball coach.
Justin Buzzo
“I feel well prepared to begin my teaching career,
because I’ve already been teaching in three
different school districts and I have worked
summers at Bay Cliff Health Camp. My first
classroom experience in my freshman year was an
eye opener, but after that I understood what it
took to become a teacher. The Elementary
Education methods classes have prepared me to
teach the four main subjects – social studies,
mathematics, science, and English – and in each
of our field experiences we taught at least four
lessons in each subject area. Teaching and writing
these lesson plans gave me a feel for the
preparation that is needed for each lesson.”
“Teaching and writing
these lesson plans gave
me a feel for the
preparation that is
needed for each lesson.”
– Justin Buzzo
Justin Buzzo, the son of John and Colleen Buzzo,
graduated from Ontonagon Junior/Senior High School in 2006. His
Elementary Education minors are social studies and mathematics. He has been
vice president of the Student Senate for two years, International Club
president for two years, and is co-president of the Elementary Education Club.
He is also a student representative on the university’s Campus Enrichment
Committee. Justin plans to pursue a master’s degree in special education. He
has spent the previous two summers working as a camp counselor, then a unit
leader, for Bay Cliff Health Camp, Big Bay, Mich., a health camp for children
with disabilities; this summer will be his third year there. Justin also works at
the MTU Canterbury House, Houghton, tutoring 11 international students
from Iran, Russia, China, Korea, Thailand, and Mongolia.
www.finlandia.edu 7

c a m p u s
n e w s
Jutila Center Dedicates New Suites
The dedication of newly renovated floors six and seven at the
Finlandia University Jutila Center for Global Design and
Business took place December 18, and the Certificate of
Occupancy permit for the two floors was signed December
29 —exactly four years after the EDA award contract was
signed December 29, 2005.
Up to 20 new suites are now available for lease on floors six
and seven of the small business incubator. New businesses
already in the suites include Ladybug Digital, printing
graphics and photography; Delta Business, accounting and tax
preparation; and SYR+ISM, a fashion design business owned
by Finlandia Art & Design graduate Pam Kotila (’10). The
Jutila Center is currently home to twenty small businesses.
“It has been a pleasure to see the old hospital building
become a vital resource in our community,” said Michigan
Representative and Finlandia board member Mike Lahti.
“Not only has the building been saved, Finlandia University’s
work with the EDA, in cooperation with local, state, and
federal agencies, has provided a good home for many startup
businesses in our community.”
Turnquist Featured in Professional Magazine
Finlandia University director of financial aid, Sandra
Turnquist, was the featured financial aid professional in the
December 2009 issue of Educational Loan Notes, a
publication of the Michigan Guaranty Agency (MGA).
Turnquist, who completed an associate degree in business at
Finlandia University in 1994, began work in Finlandia’s
Business Office as a work-study student. Since then, she has
held several positions in that office. In 2003 she was
appointed director of financial aid.
“This is well-deserved recognition for Sandy,” said Nick
Stevens, Finlandia’s chief financial officer and Turnquist’s
supervisor. “Sandy has always put students and their needs
first, which is exactly what Finlandia prides itself on.”
Left photo: Ellen Jensen (L) and Jennifer Wagner. Right photo: The
gakti displayed at the Ed Gray Gallery, Calumet.
Tornio Valley Gakti Discovered in Calumet
Ellen Jensen of Tromsø, Norway, and Jennifer Wagner of St.
Paul, Minn., recently visited the Finnish American Heritage
Center to research a newly discovered Sami gakti (traditional
clothing of the Sami) in Calumet. The gakti belonged to
immigrant Mary Kuusiniemi Hendrickson, who settled in
Calumet in 1880s. Until this discovery, there were no known
remaining gakti that originated from the Tornio Valley region
of Finland. The Tornio River is on the border between
Finland and Sweden. Many of the earliest Finnish immigrants
to the Copper Country came from this region.
Left to right: Moriah Baillargeon, D.C.
Wilson, J.R. DeMers, and Lauren Strong
Students’ Paintings
Exhibited in Japan
The artworks of Finlandia International School of Art
& Design Studio Arts students Moriah Baillargeon, J.
R. DeMers, Lauren Strong, and D.C. Wilson were
selected for the 2009 International Asian Sumi-E
Brush Painting Contest. ISAD Studio Arts associate
professor Yueh-mei Cheng encouraged the students
to enter the contest.
“It has become a new trend in the painting and
illustration field to explore sumi-e paintings,” said
Cheng. “Many students have shown great enthusiasm
in learning this oriental art.”
DeMers and Strong won honorable mention for their
paintings. All the selected paintings were published in
the 2009 exhibition catalog, and were included in a
series of touring exhibitions, including at three major
art museums in Japan. The Federation of Asian Culture
and Art, an international organization based in Japan,
organizes the annual contest and touring exhibitions.
8 the Bridge • Spring 2010

Students, Faculty Collaborate with Arts Center
The Copper Country Community Art Center (CCCAC), Hancock, is
in the planning stages of a major building renovation and several
individuals from Finlandia’s International School of Art & Design
(ISAD) have joined its 20-person-plus design team. The Arts Center
project is unique in its use of an integrated design approach, which
requires the designers, planners, and specialists to work hand-in-hand
and contribute equally at every stage.
In its renovation planning, the CCCAC is following LEED (Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design) guidelines, and has looked to the
ISAD for its sustainability and innovative problem solving foci. ISAD
associate professor Rick Loduha is the innovative re-use consultant to
the assembled multidisciplinary design team. Also on the team are
Finlandia faculty members Phyllis Fredendall and Fred Knoch,
Interdisciplinary Design student Amanda Moyers, and Interdisciplinary
Design alumnus Jordan Siegler.
Fathers 2 Dads: An Inside Look
Being a parent isn’t easy, and, unfortunately, when a
child is born he or she does not come with an
owner’s manual. With this in mind, the Finlandia
Fathers 2 Dads group found its beginning with the
phrase, “anyone can be a father, but it takes a special
man to be a ‘dad.’”
Mark Cavis The group is in its second year at Finlandia, and is
part of a collaboration between the university and
the B-H-K Child Development Board, Inc. It provides a venue for
fathers to become aware of different parenting styles, and supports
fathers through education and resources. The group is co-facilitated by
Buck Foltz (BHK Fathers 2 Dads coordinator) and Mark Cavis (TRiO
career services manager). The focus is to provide a place for interesting
discussion about issues and concerns that affect family life.
“The low key approach at the meetings is essential so everyone feels
comfortable sharing the experiences they have found successful in
helping to raise children, keeping in mind that no one has all answers to
every situation,” Cavis said.
Lack of father involvement can have a serious impact on a child’s life, as
cited by the National Fatherhood Initiative. “Father absent” children are
twice as likely to drop out of school, and they have a higher risk of
becoming juvenile offenders. More data about the effects of a fatherabsent
home is available at www.fatherhood.org.
June 2011 Trip to Finland
Finlandia University, together with Dr. Gloria Jackson, secretary of the
Finlandia Board of Trustees, is planning a June 2011 trip to Finland.
Details will be available soon. The itinerary includes a relaxed schedule
in Helsinki, culminating with a trip to the small village of Nivala to
attend the Finnish premier of the opera, Rockland, on June 9. In westcentral
Finland, Nivala is the birthplace of Gloria Jackson’s
grandmother. Finlandia friends and alumni interested in receiving more
information are encouraged to contact Doreen Korpela in the
President’s office at 906-487-7201 or doreen.korpela@finlandia.edu.
Faculty Publications,
Degrees, and Exhibitions
In 2009 artworks and writings by and about Yueh-mei
Cheng, associate professor of studio arts, appeared in several
periodicals, books, and exhibition catalogs, including in the
fall 2009 issue of Artlines published by the Women’s Caucus
for Art, the Derek Guthrie Exhibition Catalog published by
Finlandia University, and Ming-Dao Collections Since 1969
published by Ming-Dao High School, Taichung, Taiwan.
Paintings by Cheng appeared in two books: Michigan Masters
Invitational published by the Kresge Museum, Michigan State
University; and The Tsa-mo Art Festival - International Tsai-Mo,
Tu-Yia Painting Exhibition published by Taichung Municipal
Cultural Center, Taiwan.
Solo exhibitions of Cheng’s artwork appeared in 2009 and
2010 at the Community Arts Center, Hancock; the Frank
Lloyd Wright School of Architecture, Spring Green, Wis.; and
the Vertin Gallery, Calumet. In 2009 group exhibitions,
Cheng’s work appeared at the Kresge Art Museum, Lansing;
the Wisconsin Arts Board Gallery, Madison, Wis.; the Taichung
City Cultural Affairs Bureau gallery, Taiwan; and at art
museums in the Japanese cities of Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
The article, “Staff Nurses and Student Nurses: Learning From
Each Other” by Judy Crotty, assistant professor of nursing,
appeared in the March issue of NURSING 2010, a journal
that provides practical, hands-on information to nurses. Crotty
is working on a Ph.D. in nursing education through Capella
University.
Brian K. Foreman, instructor of human services and
psychology, won honorable mention in the fiction category
from the literary journal Kippis! for his short story, “Eevi,”
which will be published in a future edition of the Finnish North
American Literature Association journal. Foreman also writes
a monthly column, “Family Matters,” for the Daily Mining
Gazette of Houghton.
The article, “Phyllis Fredendall: Mining History in Felt,”
written by Daniel Schneider about the artwork of associate
professor of fiber arts Phyllis Fredendall, appeared in the
winter 2009 issue of the journal, SURFACE DESIGN. An
exhibit of Fredendall’s work was featured at the Brooklyn,
New York, gallery Urban Alchemist, March 6 to 26.
In November 2009, Diane Miller, assistant professor of
language and literature, traveled to the National
Communication Association convention in Chicago to receive
(continued)
www.finlandia.edu 9

Faculty Publications,
Degrees, and Exhibitions (continued)
an award in the ethnography division for her paper,
“Speaking of Community: Tensions of Empowerment,
Participation, and Common Good at the Co-op.” Also,
Miller’s article, “Neighborliness at the Co-op: Community
and Biospheric Literacy,” was published in the fall 2009
Community Literacy Journal.
Christine M. O'Neil, assistant dean, Suomi College of Arts
& Sciences, and assistant professor of social science,
presented her paper, “Impacts of Local Policies on
Agriculture in Urbanizing Environments,” at the 72nd
annual meeting of the Rural Sociological Society, August
2009, in Madison, Wis.
Brenda Parker, associate professor of nursing, completed
her doctorate of nursing practice from Oakland University in
December 2009. Her dissertation manuscript, “The
Continued Lived Experience of the Unexpected Death of a
Child,” has been submitted for possible publication.
In August 2009, Suzanne VanDam, assistant professor of
language and literature, completed a master of fine arts in
creative writing from the Stonecoast Creative Writing
Program at the University of Southern Maine. She is
currently working on a novel set in New Orleans.
The artwork of Denise Vandeville, dean of the International
School of Art & Design and associate professor of ceramic
arts, was featured in a solo exhibition February 2 to 27 at
the Copper Country Community Arts Center, Hancock. Her
installation, titled “Dignity,” then travels to the URBN
Gallery, Philadelphia, where it is included in a National
Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts exhibition. Also,
this February Vandeville presented a lecture based on her
MFA thesis, “Fractal Geometry and Human Aesthetic
Preference,” at Hibbing (Minn.) Community College.
Laurene Ziegler, professor of elementary education,
completed the second Rotary International vision facilitation
workshop in November 2009 and is now qualified to
provide strategic planning training for Rotary clubs. Ziegler
is the 2009-2010 president of the Rotary Club of Hancock.
Also, Ziegler and Justus Randolph, assistant professor of
elementary education, following training, recently served
on Michigan State Department of Education program review
teams for Spring Arbor College and Central Michigan
University to evaluate the colleges’ alignment with new
teacher training standards.
Monica Healy, superintendent of Hancock Public Schools,
and President Johnson share a handshake
Finlandia, Hancock Schools Close Deal
Ownership of the former Hancock Middle School and Condon Athletic
Field was officially transferred to Finlandia University March 26 pursuant
to the Campus and Community: Together for Good agreement among
Finlandia, Hancock Public Schools, and the City of Hancock. The two
properties are to be developed to house College of Health Sciences
programs and accommodate the growing NCAA Division III men’s and
women’s athletics programs. This academic year, 26 Class of 2009
Hancock High School graduates took advantage of the Campus and
Community “Hancock Award,” which offers them free or reduced
tuition at Finlandia for up to four years.
Finlandia Welcomes Archivist Kent Randell
Finlandia University has welcomed archivist Kent
Randell to the Finnish American Historical
Archive. Randell’s knowledge of the Finnish
language, Finnish history, and Upper Peninsula
history translate well to his work at the archive.
Randell specializes in local history and
manuscripts, genealogy, and web presentation.
“Working as an archivist for Finlandia
University combines my three major fields of
interest: working at a small archive—which
Kent Randell at
Heikinpäivä 2010
affords me the opportunity to work with researchers as well as process
collections—Finnish studies, and genealogy,” Randell says.
Randell’s first priority at Finlandia’s archive is to make available online
additional finding aids and other collection descriptions. “I want the rest
of the world to know about the vast and unique collection of
books––many of them rare––manuscripts, photographs, art, and material
culture objects which are held at the archive,” Randell says.
Randell is originally from Marquette, Mich. He received a bachelor of arts
in history from Northern Michigan University and lived in New England
for six years, working in the information technology field. He returned to
Michigan to complete a master’s in the science of information (MSI) from
the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.
10 the Bridge • Spring 2010

An article by Randell appeared in a recent issue of the
quarterly journal, The American Genealogist. The article,
“William Burnell of Boston. Eight Generations of Male-Line
Descendants in Boston and Nantucket, Massachusetts,” is
the first part of a two-part article concerning the history of a
colonial New England family.
Finlandia University Interim Provost Cameron Williams (left),
President Philip Johnson (center), and Gogebic
Community College President Jim Lorenson
Finlandia, Gogebic Forge Transfer Agreement
Finlandia University President Philip Johnson and Gogebic
Community College President Jim Lorenson publicly signed
a Memorandum of Understanding and Articulation
Agreement at a ceremony April 28 in Ironwood. GCC
students planning to transfer to Finlandia now have a
roadmap to follow that matches specific Gogebic classes to
the academic requirements for 11 Finlandia degree
programs, allowing students to minimize duplication of
academic requirements.
Kelly Poelstra (left) and Leann Macomber
at a Houghton Middle School student assembly
Finlandia Students Talk About Bullying
Finlandia University freshman Ben Klimczyk (Hancock),
senior Leann Macomber (Calumet), and sophomore Kelly
Poelstra (Baltimore, Ont.), along with MTU student
Anthony Sanit, shared videos and discussed their personal
experiences with middle and high school bullying at a twohour
student assembly April 22 at Houghton Middle
School. The assembly educated students about bullying and
raised awareness of what students themselves can do to
discourage or stop it. James Luoma, Houghton Middle
School principal, noted the college students’ courage and
honesty in relating their personal experiences, and believes
they made a significant positive impact on the middle
school students.
Soren Schmidt (left) with NGLS Bishop Thomas Skrenes
Terry Monson is
New Business Dean
Finlandia University has welcomed Terry
Monson as dean of the International
School of Business. Following a 31-year
career at Michigan Technological
University, Monson retired in 2008.
He served as a professor, interim dean,
and associate dean in MTU’s School of
Business and Economics.
Terry Monson
University Chaplain Installed
Finlandia University Chaplain Soren Schmidt was officially
installed as a licensed lay minister by Bishop Thomas Skrenes
of the Northern Great Lakes Synod of the ELCA April 24 at
the Chapel of St. Matthew. As a lay minister, Schmidt is
authorized to preside over word and sacrament at the Chapel
of St. Matthew.
Monson has a Ph.D. and a M.A. in economics, both from
the University of Minnesota-Minneapolis. He is the author
or co-author of numerous widely published articles and
research on international economics, economics education,
the iron ore industry, and related topics. Monson serves on
the Hancock Planning Commission and the Copper
Country Community Arts Center board. He and his wife,
Paula, live in Hancock.
www.finlandia.edu 11

Jen Burkhouse
When Jenifer (Murphy) Burkhouse, owner
of the Kukkakauppa Flower Shop, Hancock,
was enrolled at Finlandia University, four of
her eight children were also attending
Finlandia. It was a family affair!
In 2003 Burkhouse graduated from
Finlandia magna cum laude with bachelor
of arts in Rural Human Services and an
associate degree in Criminal Justice.
Her eight children are aged 12 to 28.
Christopher Gast, 28, graduated cum laude
from Finlandia’s Great Books, Great Voices
program in 2005 and is now an inventory
manager for Storm Tite, International, Inc.
in Mosinee, Wis. Kelly Gast, 26, attended
the Elementary Education program at
Finlandia and played on the women’s soccer
team. She now runs her own day care center,
Kelly’s Kids Child Care, on Pine Street in
Hancock.
Nickolas Gast, 23, is a senior studying material science and engineering at
Michigan Tech. Thomas Gast, 21, is a junior studying mathematics and
secondary education at Michigan Tech. Rebecca Gast, 18, was recently named
a Rotary International student of the month. She is currently triple-enrolled in
Houghton High School, Finlandia, and Michigan Tech, and graduates from
high school this May. Skip (Andrew) Gast, 16, is a sophomore at Houghton
High School, and Jenna Murphy-Gast, 13, is a Houghton seventh grader.
Lisa Gast, 25, took several criminal justice classes at Finlandia while she was in
high school and went on to complete a law degree at Notre Dame. Lisa credits
Judge Fraser Strom and retired Judge Phil Kukkonen, two of her Finlandia
instructors, as inspirations and role models. A corporate law specialist, Lisa was
recently promoted to a deputy attorney general for the Indiana Attorney
General’s office. She works in the Homeowner Protection Unit investigating
consumer complaints about fraudulent and deceptive lending practices.
“As a first year employee, she received a special bonus for exceeding her
boss’s expectations,” says Burkhouse of Lisa’s job promotion. “It is really
rare for a first-year employee to receive this commendation.”
Burkhouse and her family firmly believe in the value of community
service, and she attributes much of her children’s success to this way of life.
“Where there’s a need we try to jump on the bandwagon and help,
whether it’s stopping for an accident to help out, being part of a
community parade or event, or just neighbor to neighbor,” she explains.
“We do this without thinking that it’s community service,” Burkhouse
adds. “My kids just know that when you see someone who needs help,
you help them. I’ve brought them up that way, and pushed them to be
the best they can.”
Burkhouse and her family are involved in 4-H, Little Brothers Friends of
the Elderly, the Houghton County Fair, Relay for Life, and other
volunteer activities.
“Helping out doesn’t have to be flying off to help in a third world country
or donating thousands of dollars,” Burkhouse notes. “It can be as simple
as holding a door for someone, shoveling a sidewalk, or donating a can of
food to the food pantry. Every little service can brighten someone’s day.”
Burkhouse made an extraordinary donation to Finlandia’s Maki Library
several years ago. She was employed as a work-study at the library as
Finlandia’s Elementary Education program was being established. When
she realized the library didn’t have many children’s books, she “packed up
the ones that my eight kids didn’t read anymore and I dropped them off
at the library––all 3,000 of them!”
Former Finlandia business instructor Ruth Archer was an important
mentor for Burkhouse. “I fought tooth and nail that I didn’t need
business classes. I was going to work with families and kids, and not as
an administrator,” Burkhouse recalls.
But Archer patiently convinced Burkhouse of the importance of business
knowledge. “She is why I am the success that I am today,” Burkhouse says
of Archer and the growth of Kukkakauppa.
“Her demand that we think outside the box, go the extra mile, research,
and give 120% to a project is why the local banker said he hadn’t seen a
12 the Bridge • Spring 2010

usiness plan like mine in almost forever,” Burkhouse adds.
Burkhouse notes that Ruth Archer’s class made her think
hard about what to change and what to keep the same when
she and her husband, Dale Burkhouse, purchased
Kukkakauppa in 2005. Dale is the director of Portage Health
Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine.
“Our business has grown,” Burkhouse notes. “We have more
flowers than the original owners carried. We expanded the
showroom and made it warmer and more inviting, and we’ve
added U.P. items, including some that are made locally.”
The opportunity to draw on her creative side, while working
closely with people, has proven an excellent career path for
Burkhouse. “One of the reasons I love our flower shop is that
I can make people feel better by creating beautiful flower
arrangements,” she explains. “I am using my skills to make a
difference in other’s lives.”
On the surface, Rural Human Services may seem unrelated
to running a flower shop. But Burkhouse often draws on the
knowledge gained from her Finlandia bachelor’s degree.
“Whether it’s working with a stressed bride, a grieving
family, a nervous boyfriend, or a customer having a bad day,
my RHS degree definitely comes into use,” she explains.
Burkhouse is a “Sports Junkie” on WMPL (920 AM), a
program which airs live weekday mornings from 8:00 to
9:00 a.m. She says it gives her an opportunity to promote her
business while “mixing it up with the guys.”
“In today’s shaky economy, you have to be willing to think
outside the box and consider how to reach consumers of
every age,” Burkhouse says of the radio show and other
marketing methods she has pursued, including singing
telegrams, teaming up with other local businesses to
offer joint promotions, and social media promotions
on the store’s Facebook page.
As 2007-08 president of the Hancock Business &
Professional Association, Burkhouse helped revitalize
the 39-year-old organization. The HB&PA currently
has 65 business members, up from 30 members in 2006.
“Our purpose is to promote and preserve the business
and professional community by working cooperatively,”
Burkhouse explains. “If we’re going to build this
downtown, we need to get organized. We need to market
this town to encourage people to shop here and go to
college here.”
Since 1979, the HB&PA has hosted an annual downtown
Hancock Christmas Walk. Other annual HB&PA events
are a St. Patrick’s Day parade, a Canal Run spaghetti
dinner, the Bridgefest parade, and a Fall Festival, which was
started two years ago.
“Now we have goals,” Burkhouse says of the HB&PA.
“We’re looking at which events to put our time and money
into. It’s much more structured and things are actually
happening.”
Burkhouse is also a member of Finlandia’s Community
Partners group. “It’s something that is needed in Hancock,
somewhere we can all work together––the city, the
downtown area, and the university,” Burkhouse says of
Community Partners. “We’re all working to make this a
better and more viable place to live.”
Through Kukkakauppa, Burkhouse donates flowers for
Finlandia homecoming and other university events, and
extends a discount to all Finlandia students and employees.
“Many of out staff and delivery drivers have been Finlandia
students,” Burkhouse says. “It’s nice having Finlandia
students as employees. We find they are true assets to us
because of their creativity, their ability to juggle school and
work and other extra-curricular activities, and their polite
and warm personalities.”
Burkhouse and her husband completed floral school
certification at Koehler and Dramm Institute of Floristry,
Minneapolis, Minn., under the direction of internationallyknown
designer Ardith Beveridge.
Burkhouse is originally from Petoskey. She and her family
moved to the Copper Country in 1993.
Kukkakauppa was voted the #1 Copper Country flower shop
in the 2009 Daily Mining Gazette’s “People’s Choice” awards.
Visit Kukkakauppa’s website at www.coppercountryflowers.com.
www.finlandia.edu 13

Finlandia University awarded diplomas to 87 bachelor and
associate degree candidates at 2010 Commencement
exercises May 2, 2010.
Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania Bishop Alex Malasusa
gave the Commencement address and was awarded an honorary
degree, 1966 alumnus Marvin Kananen delivered the Alumni
address, and Class of 2010 Valedictorian Meisha Bray also spoke.
Degrees conferred to Finlandia’s Class of 2010 are: 4 Bachelor
of Arts (B.A.) degrees in Elementary Education, 5 B.A.s in
Liberal Studies, 1 B.A. in Liberal Studies: Arts, Culture, and
Environment (ACE); 5 B.A.s in Liberal Studies: Human
Services; 26 Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.S.N.) degrees;
11 Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) degrees; 14
Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) degrees; 6 Associate in Applied
Science (A.A.S.) degrees in Criminal Justice, 13 A.A.S. degrees
in Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA); and 2 Associate of
General Studies (A.G.S.) degrees.
Meisha identifies the biggest strength of Finlandia’s Nursing
program as the three years of clinical experiences that BSN
students complete.
“Clinical experiences helped prepare me the most for the work
I will do,” she says. “Classes teach, but the hands-on approach
that clinicals provide reinforces that and makes you think about
the situation as a whole.”
Meisha’s career plans include working in an ER and travel
nursing. Within the next five years, she plans to attend graduate
school to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist
(CRNA) or complete a master’s degree in Forensic Nursing.
Meisha has been active in Finlandia’s Student Nurses’
Organization. She also tutors high school students in math and
science for Finlandia’s Upward Bound program, and for two
years she has worked part-time at the Omega House hospice in
Houghton.
Meisha Bray
Class of 2010 Valedictorian
Finlandia University Class of 2010 valedictorian Meisha Bray
knew nursing was the right career choice following her first
clinical experience in a hospital emergency room. “It was
exciting and always changing. I didn’t want to leave after my
clinical day was done,” she explains.
She is also following a family tradition. Meisha was encouraged
by her grandmother, mother, two maternal aunts, and a sister,
all of them nurses.
Meisha graduates this spring with a perfect 4.0 GPA and a
bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). She also has a B.A. in history
from University of Tampa, Florida, and a B.S. in anthropology
from Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Mich.
“Finlandia’s small school feeling makes you feel like your
professors and other faculty members know you,” Meisha notes.
“What I liked best here was that my professors wanted to see me
succeed, and that the support was there to help me succeed.”
Originally from Haslett, Mich., Meisha now lives in Hancock.
She is the daughter of Meta and Michael Bray. Her mother,
Meta, is an assistant professor of nursing at Finlandia. Meisha
has two sisters, Mara and Micah. Mara received a BSN from
Finlandia in 2008.
Bishop Alex Malasusa
2010 Commencement Speaker & Recipient of Honorary Doctorate
Bishop Alex Malasusa was elected to preside over the
Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) Eastern and
Coastal Diocese (ECD) in 2004. In 2007, he was elected
bishop of the ELCT, while continuing his responsibilities of
the ECD.
Malasusa, 49, is the youngest presiding bishop in ELCT history,
and he represents a rising generation of African Lutheran
leadership. He studied theology at the Makumira University
College, becoming a pastor in 1994. He is married and has
three children.
14 the Bridge • Spring 2010

In its affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America (ELCA), and its location within the ELCA Northern
Great Lakes Synod (NGLS), Finlandia University and its
students have enjoyed many benefits of an 18-year partnership
between the NGLS and the ECD.
Bishop Malasusa’s leadership has been instrumental in
providing opportunities for more than 40 Finlandia University
students through the university’s Service and Learning in
Tanzania program. The NGLS also helped sponsor the
education of Salome Mnzava, an international student from
Tanzania who completed a bachelor’s in business administration
at Finlandia in 2009.
The ELCT is the fastest growing Lutheran church in the world
with 5.3 million members. Bishop Thomas Skrenes of the
NGLS and his wife, Luanne, who is a member of Finlandia’s
Board of Trustees, nominated Bishop Malasusa to receive an
honorary doctoral degree from Finlandia University.
Two Suomi College faculty members in particular have had a
lifelong influence on Kananen. Pastor (John) Simonson set him
on a Christian path, and Mrs. (Alma) Van Slyke taught him to
love English through her love of literature. “Both of them are
unforgettable,” he says.
Kananen attended Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma,
Wash., completing a bachelor’s degree in education in
1968. After teaching public school for several years in
Washington and the Bark River-Harris schools in
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, in 1975 Kananen completed a
master of arts degree in English at Oakland University,
Rochester, Mich.
God chose his career, Kananen notes. He says he doesn’t think
he would have chosen teaching otherwise. His teaching career
has taken him from Michigan and Washington State, to Sierra
Leone and Tanzania.
Marvin Kananen
2010 Commencement Alumni Speaker
Marvin Kananen, born in Laurium, attended Suomi College
from 1964 to 1966, graduating with a degree in Liberal Arts.
He lived in the Scott Hotel, and then Burritt House, his first
year at Suomi when the dining hall was in the basement of Old
Main and the highlight of each week was the cinnamon rolls.
He is the son of the late John Kananen, and Nelma Kangas
Kananen, who attended Suomi College in the 1930s. Two of his
aunts, Winnie and Eva Kangas, also attended Suomi College.
Kananen notes that what he remembers most fondly about
attending Suomi College was discovering how good it was to be
in school, how much he loved being in the U.P., and that it was
okay to be Finnish.
“My time at Suomi College shaped the rest of my life, for better
or worse,” Kananen says. “Mostly it was good.”
Kananen married Jean Wahlstrom in 1990 and taught English
at Trinity Lutheran College, Everett, Wash., until 1998, when
the couple began work with the ELCA Global Mission. For 12
years, they were missionaries and teachers at the Maasae Girls
Lutheran Secondary School, Monduli, Tanzania.
Kananen started the largest Alcoholics Anonymous group in
Tanzania, and the first Narcotics Anonymous group in East
Africa. “Since 1980 my life has been fueled by my fear of what
alcohol does to me,” he explains. “But I was and am a Christian,
even in my years as a drunkard.”
Kananen retired from his teaching career this January and he
and his wife are in the process of returning to their home in
Bellevue, Wash. For many years Kananen created crossword
puzzles, especially for Dell and Baker Book House. He and his
wife belong to St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church, Bellevue, Wash.
He says he has learned everything that he knows, plus what he’s
forgotten.
www.finlandia.edu 15

a d v a n c e m e n t
As we meet and talk with others, attend
events and performances, travel
someplace new, or read a book or magazine,
sometimes a particular experience makes a
lifelong impact. I’ve observed that these
meaningful experiences resurface from time
to time, guiding us, influencing our
decisions, and perhaps becoming part of our
core being.
Years ago, when my daughter was three or
four, I often read to her the children’s book,
The Little Engine That Could. Perhaps you are
familiar with this story in which a train
engine with a heavy load to pull over a big
mountain is unsure it can complete its
journey.
This simple children’s book provided me with a philosophy that I carry
with me each day.
In the train yard are several large engines that
apparently have the capability to easily complete
a trip over the mountain. But for various reasons
(excuses) these engines are not willing to take on
the journey. However, over in the corner of the
rail yard is a “little blue engine” whose main duty
is simply moving cars around the rail yard.
Despite his size, eventually the little blue engine
is asked if it will pull the heavy load over the
mountain. “I think I can,” says the little blue
DUANE AHO
engine as it leaps to action, connects itself to the
train cars, and starts forward. “I think I can. I think I can.”
So the little engine slowly chugs along, making progress little by little,
repeating, “I think I can. I think I can.” As the engine approaches the
crest of the mountain, however, it becomes more difficult for the engine
to maintain its momentum.
But the little blue engine perseveres, and as it begins to coast down the
mountain, it chugs joyfully, “I knew I could. I knew I could. I knew I
could.”
And so the little blue engine succeeds, delivering a payload the
apparently stronger engines were unwilling to take on.
In many ways, this story reminds me of Suomi College and
Finlandia University over the years. It’s a story about sisu.
Many years ago, as a student at Suomi College, the faculty and
staff I encountered helped me develop the important “I think
I can” attitude. Now as a staff member, I talk with so many
on campus who also embody this “can do” attitude and are
ready to tackle any problem. It’s exciting to be part of the
daily opportunity we have to make Finlandia University a
special place.
Delivering the “uncommon attention” that is the theme of
this Bridge issue is infectious and very satisfying. We have
a long journey ahead and many areas in which to make
improvements, but if I were a betting man, I’d bet on
Finlandia…the little blue engine that can.
If you are interested in encouraging the little blue engine on
its journey to the top of the mountain, please contact me
at 906-487-7349 or duane.aho@finlandia.edu.
16 the Bridge • Spring 2010

University Chaplain Soren Schmidt (right) presents a
plaque to Karen Richards (left) and Andrea McAleenan
April 1 at a cross dedication and lighting ceremony at the chapel
A C r o s s I l l u m i n a t e d
i n R e m e m b r a n c e
The cross atop the Finlandia University Chapel of St. Matthew has
great significance for a family close to the Finlandia University
community.
The cross was commissioned in 2001 by the daughters of Elaine
Halmekangas Hautala (1913-2000), a 1934 Suomi College
graduate, and installed in Elaine’s memory in 2002. Elaine’s ties
to Suomi College remained strong throughout her life.
This December, the cross was permanently illuminated in
remembrance of their father, Edward Henry Hautala (1914-
2009), and as an ongoing reminder of their parents’ spirits and
presence.
“This beautiful cross shining in perpetual light is a visual
reminder of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ,” said
daughters Andrea McAleenan of Santa Monica, Calif., and
Karen Richards of San Diego. “As it continues to glow through
the years, we hope it also will be a reminder to the entire
community of the significant history and ongoing mission of
Finlandia University.”
Edward and Elaine, both born in the Copper Country, passed
on the richness of their Finnish heritage to their two daughters,
five grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. “Their steadfast
walk with God laid a strong foundation and heritage for us,”
reflected granddaughter, Shaleen. “Grandma and Grandpa
exemplified the essence of sisu.”
Elaine’s love of books and learning were generously shared with
her children, grandchildren, and many others. Her special
ability to listen with empathy and understanding is another of
Elaine’s hallmarks, and many family and friends counted on her
words of encouragement and insight.
Edward met Elaine at a church youth gathering and courted
her via trolley car between Calumet and Hancock. They
were married in 1938 at the Franklin Street Finnish
Apostolic Church, where Elaine’s parents were
founding members.
For twenty years, Edward and Elaine lived in Detroit
and Jackson, Mich., where Edward worked for the
State of Michigan and Elaine was employed by the Beth
Moser Mental Health Clinic. They returned to Hancock
in 1970 and were active in the Zion Lutheran Church.
Edward was also proud of his Finnish heritage, and he found
great pleasure in singing and speaking the Finnish
language. In his booming baritone voice, he sang
Finnish hymns at nursing homes, church services,
and other Finnish gatherings. Edward was an
avid sports fan and played hockey into his midfifties.
His favorite place in the Copper Country
was the Lahti Retreat Center, Rabbit Bay, where
he worked on landscaping and construction
projects three days a week for 26 years, until he was 94
years old.
Edward and Elaine spent their winters in Lantana,
Fla., and were involved in the Apostolic
Lutheran Church and area Finlandia
University winter activities, including
“Michigan picnics,” Finlandia fundraising
activities, and hymn sings. Their ability
to speak, read, and sing in the Finnish
language brought into their lives
many friends.
The Chapel of St. Matthew
cross was designed by
Finlandia University
Art & Design alumnus
Craig Fish, who
attended Finlandia in
2001 and 2002.
www.finlandia.edu 17

William (Bill) A. Maki and Finlandia University are pleased to
announce the establishment of the Linda (Maki) Elliot Horton
Endowment Fund.
Linda (Maki) Horton, born in 1959, died in November 2006. Linda was
a beautiful person inside and out, recalls her father, Bill Maki, adding
that she was a smart and a skilled business woman and well on her way to
accomplishing her goal of retiring in her early 50s.
Linda had a particular love for her Finnish heritage and for Finnish music,
particularly the kantele. She studied Finnish music, learned to play the
kantele, and was inspired to teach others.
In a recent visit with Bill Maki at his home in Painesville, Ohio, Duane Aho,
Finlandia EVP for Advancement, noted that the loss Bill feels is still strong. “Bill told
me about a memorial display he established for Linda at the Finnish Heritage Museum Linda (Maki) Elliot Horton
in Fairport Harbor, Ohio,” Aho recalls.
Intrigued, Aho made the trip 10 miles north to get a fuller sense of who Linda was. “The display included many of
her personal belongings, including her flute, at which she was very accomplished,” Aho says.
“The display and museum are a fitting tribute,” Aho notes. “The museum’s setting on the shores of Lake Erie, and the
memorial from a father who spent his life on the water as a merchant marine and Coast Guard veteran, is very moving.”
“Life was fun for Linda,” says a memorial written by her family to mark her 48th birthday. “She traveled a lot, trained
her dachshund buddies, and loved her work and friends.”
Through this endowment fund, it is Bill Maki’s wish that others can experience many of the things Linda enjoyed
about life. Maki intends to provide annual gifts to the fund and, through his estate, add to it upon his death.
“Finlandia University is very grateful for the establishment of this endowment and will ensure it is used to enrich
student’s lives in those activities that made life enjoyable for Linda,” Aho said.
Thank you, Bill.
If you would like to contribute to this endowment, please send gifts to: Finlandia University,
601 Quincy St., Hancock, MI 49930. Please note on your check that your gift is for the Linda
(Maki) Elliot Horton Endowment Fund.
FINLANDIA INTRODUCES EGIVING
Finlandia University is pleased to introduce eGiving. Now university supporters
have the option of giving a gift to Finlandia through the convenience and
privacy of a personal computer. “eGiving is a safe, secure, and easy method for
donors to make a recurring or one-time gift to Finlandia,” explains Ross
Rinkinen, director of the Finlandia Fund. Online gifts can be made using most
major credit cards. The first 25 eGiving donors of $100 or more will receive a
Finlandia University tote bag or stadium cushion. To find out more or to send
a gift, link to www.finlandia.edu and select the eGiving link on the home page.
18 the Bridge • Spring 2010

The first time Finlandia University hockey student-athlete Dan Grille ice skated, he
ended up with a bloody face and a headache. He told his mom he’d never skate again.
“Obviously, I ended up loving it,” Dan says. “At age six, I started skating lessons, and at
seven began playing organized hockey.”
Dan has played AAA Midget league hockey for the Northeast Wisconsin Junior
Gamblers in Green Bay, Midget Hockey for the Marquette (Mich.) Electricians, and in
2007-08, Junior league hockey for the San Antonio (Texas) Diablos.
A Liberal Arts major at Finlandia, Dan played center position on the men’s hockey team.
This spring he completed a bachelor of arts with concentrations in religion and
philosophy, and corporate communications.
In summer 2007 Dan began work as personal trainer at AdvantEdge, an Athletic
Republic franchise location in the Harbor Hills Business Plaza, Marquette.
“It took me back to what I loved when I was little,” Dan says of starting work as a
personal trainer. “It put me in touch with the whole concept of wanting to improve
oneself, and I could bring my expertise to others.”
This spring, Dan will be working full-time for AdvantEdge, directing hockey operations
at a new location the company will open. He’ll soon travel to Park City, Utah, for
training in the use of the various sport-specific methods used within the Athletic
Republic franchise.
For his Liberal Arts senior capstone project, Dan created a business and marketing plan
for this professional opportunity. He’ll also graduate a year early to take the job.
On Dan’s capstone project committee are business management instructor
Marilyn Clark; Dan’s academic advisor, René Johnson; and head men’s hockey
coach, Chris Salani.
The three instructors on the committee represent three different perspectives.
“Marilyn Clark is helping me with the business component. Chris Salani
contributes information about exercise science, and René keeps me level-headed
and reminds me to maintain the right perspective,” Dan explains.
Dan says it’s like being part of a team at Finlandia. “Staying in such close contact
with teachers would be harder at a bigger school,” he explains. “I can e-mail,
talk, or visit with them pretty much anytime. It’s also helpful hearing their real
world experiences. It helps me apply what I’m learning.”
“I’ve been in contact with so many students in various programs at Finlandia, too,”
Dan adds. “They are people from many different perspectives in life. Everyone on
campus knows, or at least knows of, each other. It’s fun, and there is a lot of
support here.”
In 2009, Dan participated in the Service and Learning in Tanzania program. He says
the experience drastically changed his perspective on life and made him more fully
appreciate and feel content about his own opportunities.
A few years ago, Dan rediscovered faith as a Christian and feels comfortable and strong
in that identity. “I feel like God has blessed me with excellent opportunities, including
coming to Finlandia,” Dan notes. “I have really appreciated my experience here.”
Dan sees himself in the future with a position in which he can even more directly serve
others, perhaps in the military as chaplain.
Dan graduated from Stephenson High School in 2005. He is the son of Marc and Peggy
Grille, and has two older sisters, Ruth and Joanna. Dan lives in Marquette and Hancock.
If you’d like to contact Dan, he invites you to e-mail him at dangrille@gmail.com.
Top photo
Dan Grille with students in Tanzania
Bottom photo
Dan Grille (right) on the ice
www.finlandia.edu 19

Abilities like critical thinking, communication, time
management, and interpersonal skills are essential for
everyone working to begin or advance a career. But these
professional behaviors can’t always be learned in the classroom.
“We can’t teach these behaviors,” confirms Hilary Sproule,
associate professor and academic coordinator of clinical
education for the Finlandia University Physical Therapist
Assistant associate degree program. “Instead, we try to make
the student aware of expectations in the physical therapy
field and help them rate their own behaviors against those
expectations. When a student’s ranking indicates a deficit,
we encourage reflection on the student’s abilities and assist
the student in developing a goal and strategies for personal
change.”
When the program began in 1998, PTA faculty noted that
each semester a few students would experience some
difficulties during academic sessions and clinical experiences
that were not based on their cognitive ability to learn.
So in 2002, when Sproule and her associates became familiar
with assessment learning research that tracked behaviors that
made physical therapists successful or unsuccessful, they
adapted a related learning model called the generic abilities
self-assessment.
“The six generic abilities we identified for physical therapist
assistants —commitment to learning, interpersonal skills,
communication skills, critical thinking, stress management
and professionalism—are the building blocks for physical
therapy’s core professional values,” Sproule explains.
“Self-assessment is one tool to prepare students for the
professional environment,” she adds. “It gives us a method to
identify potential problems, often before students begin their
on-site clinical experiences.”
The self-assessment process is introduced in PTA 101,
Introduction to Physical Therapy, through class discussion of
images and films illustrating professional behavior.
Knowledge of the behaviors is enhanced when the students
prepare for clinical practice. The students rank themselves
on a generic abilities continuum, select one professional
behavior to improve, and begin a two-way e-mail dialogue
with PTA instructors to develop appropriate goals and
methods to measure their progress.
Following their first clinical experience, students reassess
their professional behaviors and adapt their goals and
strategies according to the progress they have made. This
process is repeated for the second and third clinical
experiences. By the third clinical experience, Sproule says
students fully realize the value of setting and achieving goals.
20 the Bridge • Spring 2010

“For most students, early self-assessment goals are
communication-related,” Sproule notes. “For example,
students develop strategies and measures to improve how to
speak with the PT, or how to translate medical terminology
into layman’s terms when speaking to a
patient. During the second and third
clinical affiliations, goals are typically
centered on critical thinking and
reasoning skills, skills that are central to
the PTA’s work.”
“Students are sometimes reluctant to
self-assess their behaviors,” Sproule
adds. “This is hard. It takes people out
of their usual paradigm. But the focus is
not on ‘did you make the goal,’ but
rather on the progress and growth the
student experienced.”
Clinical instructors, who work on-site with PTA students
during clinical placements, are central to the student selfassessment
process. Goals and strategies are discussed weekly, if
not daily, and the clinical instructor arranges specific learning
opportunities to help the student improve a targeted behavior,
in addition to practicing specific physical therapy skills.
“The clinical instructors are made aware of each student’s
self-assessment goals, along with the student’s strategies, the
specific behavior targeted for improvement, the
measurement to verify improvement, and the date by which
the goal is to be reached,” says Sproule. “The instructor
regularly evaluates student progress and provides
constructive feedback.”
During her first clinical affiliation, PTA sophomore Erin
Johnson, Calumet, worked on developing her
communication skills with certain patients and health care
professionals. “I found it difficult because I didn’t know what
to expect of myself,” she explains. “But now I have a better
idea of my performance capabilities.”
“I value the generic abilities more now than when I first
started working with them,” Johnson adds. “It really helps
me stay on top of areas needing improvement. It helps me
come face-to-face with my weaknesses.”
Johnson believes that becoming comfortable with and
mastering each generic ability will help her become a
successful, well-rounded professional.
“Assessing my own behavior seemed somewhat awkward at
first,” agrees sophomore Ted Testolin, Waucedah. “Imagine
having to give yourself a grade on a major school project. Of
course, you would like to give yourself an ‘A’ …but, do you
really deserve an ‘A’”
“The end result is,
I’m a better
clinician and the
patient receives
better care. That’s
what it’s all about.”
“It wasn’t until I had the opportunity to utilize the selfassessment
process for a full semester—target a specific ability,
identify a specific behavior and appropriate strategies, and see
it all through to the end—that I realized its full potential,”
says Testolin. “I now consider it an
extremely valuable tool.”
To improve his critical thinking, one
goal Testolin and his instructors
identified was to accurately analyze
patient response to intervention(s) and
identify appropriate opportunities to
progress the patient’s program within
the scope of the patient’s plan of care.
“The goal required a measurement to
verify improvement, which I chose to
be a rating by my clinical instructor of
80% or above on specific performance criteria on the
evaluation tool used by our PTA program (Clinical
Performance Instrument),” Testolin explains. “I also
established a time frame and developed strategies to help
attain the goal.”
Testolin’s strategies included: (1) to observe patient responses
to therapies, and recognize any differences in patient
response to treatment, (2) to identify modifications or
alterations to therapies performed within the scope of the
plan of care to the PT and/or to my clinical instructor, and
(3) to observe other PTs and PTAs and recognize the
interventions provided to patients, the patient’s response,
and any modifications the PT or PTA may have chosen to
progress the patient’s program.
Following evaluation by PTA faculty, Ted’s advisor suggested
a fourth strategy: to identify the rationale for any goals set by
the PT and the interventions chosen.
“As you can see a lot of thought and preparation goes into the
entire process,” Ted notes.
So how much does the self-assessment process help
“The self-assessment process has helped me to improve my
professional performance. I’m now continually developing
strategies for improvement as a result of the assessments,”
says Testolin. “The end result is, I’m a better clinician and
the patient receives better care. That’s what it’s all about.”
The Finlandia University Physical Therapist Assistant
program began in 1998; 126 students have completed the
program; 62 students are currently enrolled; and 14 PTA
students graduated this spring.
www.finlandia.edu 21

a t h l e t i c s
n e w s
MEN’S HOCKEY
Thirteen men’s hockey players were named to the Midwest
Collegiate Hockey Association (MCHA) 2009-10 All-
Academic Team. They are: Charles Benik, sophomore;
James Brey, sophomore; Ryan Donovan, junior * ; Daniel
Grille, junior * ; Christopher Hendrickson, senior; Nemanja
Jankovic, sophomore; Matthew Marchel, senior; Quinn
McIntosh, senior * ; James Neitsch, sophomore; Eric
Schultz, senior * ; Bryan Solander, senior # ; Brandon
VanAcker, senior # ; and Matthew Wylie, junior * . Note: * Twotime
All-Academic member; # Three-time All-Academic member
Left to right: Women’s hockey seniors Jessica Jones, Kendra Benson,
Katie Fredianelli, Emily Marcotte, and Katelyn McLean
WOMEN’S HOCKEY
Three members of the women’s hockey team were honored
by the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA) for
academic excellence. Seniors Emily Marcotte (Marquette)
and Jessica Jones (Winnipeg, MB), and junior Katie
Fredianelli (Hancock), were named to the 25-member
2009-2010 All-NCHA Women’s Hockey Team. Marcotte
has a 3.66 cumulative GPA and graduated this spring with a
bachelor of science in nursing. Jones, a three-time selection,
graduated this spring with a 3.34 cumulative GPA in the
Elementary Education program. Fredianelli carries a 3.51
cumulative GPA in Liberal Studies.
Women’s hockey senior forward Katelyn McLean
(Houghton) and freshman goaltender Stephanie LaMore
(Dexter) were honorable-mention selections to the 2009-
2010 All-NCHA Women’s Hockey Team. McLean scored 11
goals and tallied 5 assists for 16 total points this season. She
scored five of her goals on the power-play, including one
game-winning goal. LaMore started 11 games in net with a
2-8 record. She had a 3.39 goals-against-average and a .911
saves-percentage.
Three women’s hockey team members were named to the
2009-10 NCHA Women’s All-Academic Team. The Finlandia
scholars, with their year, position, hometown, major, and
GPA, are: Katie Fredianelli, junior, forward, Hancock,
Liberal Studies, 3.51; Emily Marcotte, senior, forward,
Marquette, Nursing, 3.66; and Jessica Jones, senior, defense,
Winnipeg, MB, Canada, Elementary Education, 3.34. This is
the third year Jones has been named to the all-academic team.
The NCHA named senior forward Katelyn McLean
(Houghton) the women’s division Player of the Week,
November 17, 2009. McLean tallied four points in a
weekend split with Hamline University, November 14 and
15. She had two goals and an assist in Saturday’s 5-3 loss, and
a crucial power play goal on Sunday afternoon in Finlandia’s
2-0 victory. McLean is a Sports Management major.
MEN’S SOCCER
Three members of the men’s soccer team were honored by
the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC).
Tim Carron (St. Clair Shores) and Will Williams
(Romulus) were named to the 22-member All-WIAC Men’s
Soccer Team, and Nic Polzin (Duluth, Minn.) was named to
the five-member All-Sportsmanship Team. Carron, a
sophomore forward, led the Lions in scoring this season with
6 goals and 2 assists for 14 points. He had one game-winning
goal and one penalty kick score. Williams, a senior forward
studying Business, finished tied for second in scoring with
three goals and two assists for eight points. His .273 scoring
percentage was a team high. Polzin, a senior forward
studying Business, was honored for his exemplary
sportsmanship throughout the season.
Finlandia Soccer
Welcomes New Coach
Finlandia University welcomed
Chris Perez as head men’s and
women’s soccer coach in March.
Perez has more than 15 years
professional experience coaching
Chris Perez and developing soccer programs.
Most recently, he coached soccer at
the University of Wisconsin-Superior.
Perez has a bachelor of science in sports management
from Salem (W.V.) International University. He holds
numerous soccer- and sports-related certifications and
diplomas, and his teams and players have received
multiple athletic and academic awards.
“Chris’s demonstrated success and work ethic at UW-
Superior is a great model for Finlandia as we work to
expand our men’s and women’s soccer programs,” said
Finlandia athletic director Chris Salani.
22 the Bridge • Spring 2010

WOMEN’S SOCCER
Junior midfielder Hayley Laban (Houghton) was named to
the 2009 Association of Division III Independents Women’s
Soccer Second Team. Laban was one of three players to start
all 15 games for the Lions in 2009. She tied for the team lead
in shots with 18, and tied for second in total goals and
points. Laban is a Graphic Design major.
CROSS COUNTRY RUNNING
Freshmen Darryl Brown (Detroit) and Michelle Wood
(L’Anse) were named to the Association of Division III
Independents 2009 Men’s and Women’s Cross Country
Teams. Brown, a Second Team selection, finished the season
with the fastest time in the 8K run for the Lions men’s team.
He is a Business major. Wood, an Honorable Mention
selection, was the Lions top female runner in both the 5K
and 6K races. Wood is pursuing a bachelor of arts.
WOMEN’S VOLLEYBALL
Sophomore middle blocker Kara Rastello (Calumet) was
named to the 2009 Association of Division III Independents
Women’s Volleyball Second Team. Rastello led the Lions in
kills (260), kills per game (3.30), blocks (79), and blocks per
game (1.0) this season. Rastello also excels in the classroom
with a 3.36 GPA in the Physical Therapist Assistant program.
Left to right: Tuulia Terinkoski, Rebecca Ward,
Riku the Lion, Sara Spangler and Cayla Raymaker
MEN’S BASKETBALL
Senior Tyler Gordon (Red Cliff, Wis.) is the 2010 NCAA
Division III statistical champion for steals-per-game.
Gordon also led the NCAA Division III in steals-per-game
in 2009. In recognition of his national NCAA standing, he
will receive a plaque from the NCAA.
Gordon and senior Erik Bresette (Red Cliff, Wis.) were
named to the 2009-2010 Association of Division III
Independents (AD3I) Men’s Basketball Team. Gordon was
named to the first-team, averaging 21.9 points, 6.4
rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 3.6 steals this season. Bresette, an
honorable-mention selection, averaged 10.5 points, 6.5
rebounds, and 2.2 assists. Both Gordon and Bresette are
Business majors.
Tyler Gordon was also named the AD3I men’s basketball
Player of the Week, January 4, 2010. In a 95-93 loss to
Albion College on December 30, Gordon scored a careerhigh
47 points, including 33 in the first half. He shot an
amazing 85% from the floor (17-of-20) and 85.7% from
beyond the arc (6-of-7). He also chipped in six rebounds,
five assists, and three steals in the narrow defeat.
Left to right: Women’s basketball seniors Jillian Dolkey, Jodi Riutta,
Ally Tincknell, Janna Daavettila, and Becky Kangas
WOMEN’S BASKETBALL
Finlandia seniors Ally Tincknell (Negaunee) and Jodi
Riutta (Houghton) were named to the 2009-2010
Association of Division III Independents (AD3I) Women’s
Basketball Team. Tincknell was selected for the first-team,
averaging 13.2 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists this
season. Riutta, a second-team selection, averaged 14.6
points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.95 assists.
Tincknell and Riutta both surpassed the 1,000 point plateau
this season. Tincknell and Riutta are both four-year starters
for the Lions, amassing 1,249 and 1,190 career points,
respectively. Tincknell averaged a team-leading 12.6 points
and 9 rebounds per game this season, while Riutta averaged
12.7 points and 6.6 rebounds per game. The women are also
outstanding students. Tincknell, an Elementary Education
major, has a 3.72 cumulative GPA and is president of the
Student Senate. Riutta will graduate this spring with a degree
in Business; she carries a 3.51 cumulative GPA.
Senior center Ally Tincknell was named AD3I women’s
basketball Player of the Week, January 18, 2010. Tincknell
led her team to a 2-1 record on the week and averaged 21.7
points and 7 rebounds per contest. She shot a blistering
75.7% from the floor (28-of-37), including an 84.6% effort
(11-of-13) in which she posted a double-double with 26
points and 11 boards.
www.finlandia.edu 23

From Belgrade, Serbia, Nemanja Jankovic, 22, arrived in
Canada in 2004 to play hockey for the Bradford
(Ontario) Rattlers, a Junior A Hockey League team, staying
with that team four years while completing high school at
Summit Christian Academy, Toronto.
When he arrived in North America, Nemi didn’t speak a
word of English. “It was a fight the first couple of years,”
Nemi says. “It has been a long and bumpy road to get here,
but that makes it more valuable.”
In addition to league games, the Rattlers compete in
exhibition games against NCAA teams. It was at one such
game in 2004 that Nemi was introduced to Finlandia.
Now a sophomore Business major, Nemi, 5'9", started at
Finlandia in fall 2008. He plays the right wing position for
the Lions. Nemi is also a resident hall assistant. He describes
his Lions teammates as long lasting friends and says that his
teachers at Finlandia have offered great support.
Mirko Vilicic, of Toronto, has also been a great friend to
Nemi during his time in North America.
“Kitti Loukus is a saint,” he adds, referring to Finlandia’s
associate director of admissions. “She is seriously available
24/7 for whatever we need.”
Nemi began to play team hockey at six years old—with
players who were mostly four or five years older. But that
didn’t stop him. As soon as he stepped on the ice, he says he
couldn’t be dragged off. That’s when he got his nickname,
which, roughly translated from Serbian, is the Tasmanian
Devil or “Taz.”
One of the reasons Nemi loves the game of hockey is the
speed. And, of course, scoring is a thrill. “In hockey you
must react quickly,” he notes. “On the ice I can tell what’s
going to happen a couple seconds before it happens.”
“You meet some funny people in hockey,” Nemi notes.
“They’re a unique bunch. The unwritten rules of
hockey are totally different than the way the wider
world operates.”
Nemi estimates that 90% of hockey players have
extensive routines they carry out before going on the ice.
His routine is to eat a chocolate bar—a Reese’s
Nutrageous—and he has a photo of himself and his brother
which he touches after he puts on his jersey. He always puts
his left skate on first.
“My routines are much less that most guys,” Nemi says.
“Some guys are extreme. Even the smallest thing could be the
wrong thing to do.”
His brother, Dusan Jankovic, 33, is the most important person
in Nemi’s life. “As much as it is my accomplishment to be here,
it is his, too,” he says. “Without him I wouldn’t make it. I grew
up next to him. He was looking after me and my mom.”
Dusan owns and operates a small café/bar in Belgrade called
Bistro Lumiere. It was opened in summer 2009 and is
furnished in a classic Hollywood theme.
Nemi was selected to represent Serbia on the men’s national
team for this year’s IIHF World Championship tournament.
The tournament took place in Tillburg, Netherlands, April
19 to 25, 2010. He will played in Division 1, Group A, with
teams from Austria, Japan, Lithuania, Serbia, and Ukraine.
“It’s a huge deal and extremely exciting,” Nemi says of this
opportunity. “Putting the jersey on for my country was a great
honor. I was on the ice with some extreme professional players.”
As a Serbian, Nemi feels he has to fight a little harder and prove
much more. He says he strives to present himself and Serbia as
positive and valuable. “I am proud to fight for Serbia,” he says.
Nemi says his years away from home have been toughest on his
mother, Mirjana. “She is definitely missing her baby, although
she is used to it a little,” he says. They stay in touch often.
When he’s not playing hockey or
studying, Nemi enjoys racing,
music, and shooting. He wants
to play professional hockey.
24 the Bridge • Spring 2010

Everyone on campus, in both large and small ways,
contributes to the “uncommon attention” students enjoy
at Finlandia University. The work of the following three staff
members, in particular, is central to student success.
As director of residence life, Kelley Martin ensures that
residential life provides a co-curricular education. She arranges
programming in health and wellness, diversity, and life skills
development, and encourages an environment of informal
learning. Martin also supervises six resident assistants.
And as director of student affairs, Martin advises the Student
Senate and the student newspaper, the ROAR, oversees the
conduct and judicial system, and participates in the
development and implementation of student activities. She
also oversees Campus Safety and Security.
Each of Martin’s job responsibilities directly influence how
students build and perceive their residence hall community.
“Students learn a great deal about themselves and others during
their day-to-day interactions in Finlandia Hall,” she says.
“It’s important to meet students where they are individually,
then encourage and support them in developing to the next
level,” Martin adds. “I am always watching for those
‘teachable moments.’”
As director of academic support, Kellie Raffaelli advises atrisk
students. As director of disability services, she advises
students with disabilities, and manages their
accommodations. Raffaelli operates the university Testing
Center, oversees the Teaching Learning Center (TLC), and
teaches UNS 103, Finlandia Success.
“The sole purpose of my position is to directly and positively
influence student academic performance,” Raffaelli says. “I
track their progress, check in with students who are falling
behind, and counsel them on how to improve.”
Raffaelli, along with Finlandia, is in the business of helping
students succeed. “Every day I speak with students who talk
about how particular staff and faculty have helped them. The
people who work at Finlandia are willing to go the extra mile.”
Raffaelli says her philosophy is based on tough love. She is
direct with students about what they need to do and the
steps they should take to reach their goals.
“I hold all students to a high standard, but at the same time
give them the caring support they need to meet those
standards,” she explains.
“I love my job. I love working with students and helping
them reach their goals,” Raffaelli says. “Although challenging
sometimes, it’s the student success stories that make it all
worthwhile.”
Rob McTaggart administers and manages TRiO Student
Support Services. TRiO is a federally-funded program that
annually serves 180 low-income, first generation, and
disabled students in the areas of academic support, career
guidance, personal counseling, and financial aid assistance.
McTaggart and his staff influence student success through
advising and counseling, offering a layer of general support
to the guidance they receive from faculty. He notes that some
students might not reach their educational goals without this
extra layer of services.
“When students complete an evaluation of the TRiO
program, and tell us that they simply would not have made
it through without us, it speaks volumes,” McTaggart says.
“When a student regularly utilizes the professional and peer
tutoring staff and, in turn, earns the minimum (or higher)
grade requirement in a critical class, their pride and gratitude
are obvious,” McTaggart adds.
“Students typically decide to stay enrolled at an institution
where they feel that they fit in, are developing, and are
validated,” notes McTaggart. “When TRiO students fully
take advantage of what we offer, they can’t help but
experience these three things.”
McTaggart says he never misses and opportunity to
physically walk a student to an advisor’s or instructor’s office.
“The student never forgets that,” he says. “Why Because
with that simple act the student begins to understand that
they are important enough to take the time for – the student
is validated right then and there.”
www.finlandia.edu 25

The Joseph Cornell “Art Kit”
Jessica Eichhorn (left) and Jill Codere
As 2009-10 Coleman Faculty Fellows, International School of
Art & Design instructors Fred Knoch (’09) and Ronda Jones
(’08) are engaging in activities to advance self-employment
education on campus and expand entrepreneurship
education in non-traditional curricular areas.
“The ISAD has always had a strong connection with
business and entrepreneurial learning, and the projects
Ronda and I are working on further advance that mission,”
says Knoch, who is also the director of corporate relations
at Finlandia’s Jutila Center. “A Coleman Foundation
Faculty Entrepreneurship Fellows Grant awarded recently
to Finlandia is helping to fund some aspects of this work.”
“Made at Finlandia University”
“If you were to hire a Finlandia Art &
Design graduate, what would they bring
to the table” Fred Knoch muses.
To the already rich mix of entrepreneurial
and fine art experiences ISAD students
take with them into the wider world,
Knoch wants to add the experience of
Fred Knoch
marketing fine arts items through a retail
store/design studio concept he calls the FUEL Studio.
FUEL stands for Finlandia University Entrepreneurial
Learning. At the heart of this innovative idea is encouraging
fine arts students to pursue learning projects that will result
in products they can produce in ISAD studios and sell on
campus and in the community.
Through the FUEL studio, and in conjunction with ISAD
project-based and art business courses, students will engage
in researching target markets, identifying potential
competition, networking with manufacturers, fabricators,
and suppliers, and developing business plans.
Knoch envisions the FUEL Studio as both a student design
space and a retail space. “When people come to the Jutila
Center to work, shop, or eat, they’ll also experience the
vibrancy of the Jutila Center campus,” he explains.
“The FUEL Studio could look like a professional design
studio,” he adds. “Visitors might see students working on
projects, and a retail sales space could allow them to purchase
student-produced fine art, Finlandia merchandise, and
perhaps selected books and Finnish design merchandise.”
Knoch and ISAD dean Denise Vandeville are also talking
with Michigan Technological University about
collaboratively teaching an ISAD projects class with MTU
engineering students.
“I’ve discovered that this is the perfect time to advance
entrepreneurship in academics,” Knoch says. “Everyone I’ve
talked with is eager to participate.”
Art Boxes: A Pilot Project
ISAD Graphic Design juniors Jessica Eichhorn, Wallace, and
Jill Codere, Hancock, completed a pilot FUEL Studio
project in Fall 2009 for their Project Management class
(ARD 329), which was instructed by Fred Knoch.
The students’ “client” was the Copper Country Community
Arts Center (CCCAC), Hancock. Their Arts Center liaison,
Ronda Jones, is the Arts Center education coordinator and a
dedicated volunteer. The goal of the pilot project was to
create youth “art kits” to be sold to raise funds for the nonprofit
Arts Center.
26 the Bridge • Spring 2010

“It was a social entrepreneurship opportunity,” explains
Jones. “Not only did Jessica and Jill develop a professional
relationship with the Arts Center and apply many of the
business-related tools they have learned, they were successful
in an entrepreneurial endeavor that benefited a non-profit
community organization.”
During eight weeks of intensive work, the students designed
and produced three separate youth art kits, assembling a total
of 60 kits. Each kit includes both an illustrated lesson in art
history and a hands-on fine art activity for children aged six
to nine.
“The students did an excellent job researching the featured
artists and creating attractive and practical packaging,” says
Cynthia Cote, director of the CCCAC. “Each kit includes a
write up about the artist and an art activity that is wellmatched
to the lesson.”
More than half of the kits have been sold since December
2009, which completely covers the cost of the materials, so
sales of the remaining kits, priced at $15 each, will directly
benefit the Arts Center.
The artists featured in the kits are Alexander Calder, Henri
Matisse, and Joseph Cornell. Each kit includes a lesson,
pictures of the artists’ work, and instructions to complete a
fine art project. The Calder kit features a project to build a
mobile; the Cornell kit creates a memory box; and the
Matisse fine art project is a collage, a medium in which
Matisse worked later in life.
“The art kits are very original, and they serve a need for us,
as we’re always trying to reach out to our younger members,”
notes Cote. “Ultimately, we hope to develop a whole line of
the art kits.”
“It’s always a great experience working with students, and
these two especially,” Cote says. “They covered all the bases
and with Ronda as a liaison, everything went smoothly.”
“We had a lot of fun and I’m really happy how they came
out,” notes Jessica Eichhorn. “Ronda provided valuable
critiques, encouraged us to stick with more sustainable
supplies, and kept us within our budget. Without her we
wouldn’t have gotten it done.”
Jill Codere’s nine-year-old daughter, Sophie, loved the
memory box, especially. “Kids collect things that are
meaningful to them,” Codere says. “Sophie jumped right on
the Joseph Cornell kit!”
Finlandia also received a Coleman Foundation grant in 2005
through their Entrepreneurship Excellence in Teaching
Colleges program. This $150,000 grant funded expansion of
the ISAD Design Entrepreneurship program, which focuses
on the “Finnish Model” of design education where design and
business education are combined to create a cross-discipline
curriculum with a strong focus on entrepreneurship.
“It’s easy to break even,
but hard to get ahead.”
You wouldn’t want to play a
game without learning the
rules. Artists—and everyone—
have to play the money game.
Don’t you think you should
Ronda Jones
know the rules
“I feel strongly that everyone needs basic business
knowledge and skills,” says Ronda Jones, a
Finlandia dual-degree graduate (Business and Art
& Design). “It’s so heartbreaking to watch a
really great artist fail in business because they
didn’t have all the info they needed. Financial
survival is more important now than ever before.
If you pay attention at 22 years old, instead of at
32 years, it can make a huge difference.”
In two Finlandia courses, Jones teaches business
skills to student artists. Art Business, BUS 125,
introduces students to industry standards,
portfolio preparation, and proposal writing.
In Art Entrepreneurship, BUS 325, Jones covers
topics related to business start up, including
taxes, retirement options for artists, intellectual
property rights, writing business plans, and
personal finance.
“Most students are reluctant at first,” Jones says.
“But it is gratifying at the end of the semester to
hear them say, ‘I realize that I really need to know
this. I’m so glad I understand this now.’”
Jones is meeting with faculty members and deans
in all disciplines to encourage dialogue about
how to embed entrepreneurship principals within
regular curricula.
An Entrepreneurship Certificate
Jones is also developing a proposal for a one-year
Entrepreneurship Certificate. The fast-paced,
content rich, 25-credit program would present
the most pertinent advanced business
communications, ethics, and law concepts.
“Entrepreneurship Certificate participants will
learn everything about starting a business. This is
a program for people who are 100% serious
about starting and running a business,” Jones
explains.
www.finlandia.edu 27

Each and every issue of the Bridge is brilliant and
enjoyable. It never fails to please me. In the winter 2009
issue, I found the “Safe At Suomi During WWII” story really
interesting. In the photo I located the faces of dear friends
from the past, many of whom are now gone.
The Wargelins stand out and are recognized instantly, along
with Dr. Viljo Nikander. But the real friends and
inspirationalists in my life are at the top and include Rev.
Leslie Lurvey, distant cousin Rev. Henry R. Kangas (with
whom I spent the summer of ‘58 with at Suomi), and Rev.
Melvin Hagleberg for whom I drew a picture of a Great
Lakes straight-decker iron ore carrier when I was about 12
years old. From what I understand, he had that drawing
framed and kept it forever.
Behind Rev. Hagleberg is Rev. David Halttunen (who later
changed his name to Hartman) and next to him is Rev.
Robert Hetico. Halttunen became pastor at Ashtabula's
Bethany Lutheran Church and on arrival began the task of
building a new church for us. He was in his early 20s, and I
believe was ordained at 21 years old. His brother, Bill, comes
to town every summer. Did you know the Halttunen family
owned a coal mine
I also see Elsa Kesatie from Conneaut, Ohio, in the photo.
She became a very talented artist. I believe Pastor Rudy
Kempainen is in there somewhere. Even at this age in his
life, he remains very popular and highly regarded. He
conducted a funeral service in Lake City, Mich., for
Aileen (Rosted) Davenport. A Christmas
greeting received here today pointed out
what a wonderful pastor he has always been.
Before coming up to my computer room/art
studio, I wrote out a check for Finlandia
which is to be used as a memorial for David
Taito Sakari Halkola. David, while not a
relative, was about as close as anyone not of
our family could be to us.
When my wife, Dorothy, and I were
students at Suomi (1956-1958), I, at least,
spent way too much time sharing my
talents. I both built and painted the stage
sets for “Amahl and the Night Visitors”
(1957) and “Abe Lincoln of Illinois.” I also
spent a ton of Suomi’s money on darkroom
supplies, film, developer, and other
chemicals, and spent many hours in the
old darkroom which was above the
entrance to Nikander Hall where the coal
chutes were. I was an artist and
photographer for two yearbooks, 1957
and 1958.
Suomi/Finlandia is a marvelous place filled
with exciting goals and dreams, and surely a
place of memories. I truly love what
Finlandia has become, and I will always do
whatever I can to help our school.
28 the Bridge • Spring 2010

Paintings by Charles Altonen
Charles Alan Altonen (’58) of Ashtabula, Ohio, is an artist at heart. His interest in
creating art began in sixth grade, and for 60 years he has been drawing and painting.
Following his graduation from Suomi College, Altonen earned a bachelor’s degree at
Northern Michigan University, with the intention of becoming a pastor. However, he
never finished seminary, instead pursuing a number of employment opportunities. He
was involved in Chicago politics for a few years, and for five years served on a Chicagoarea
public school board of education. He was a writer, working first for the Maywood
Herald in metropolitan Chicago. He owned and operated a print and graphics studio.
He drove a taxi on weekends. He worked in the mechanical industry with heating, air
conditioning, piping, and refrigeration. He was an assistant candy buyer at a
department store, and an account and cost analyst in the cosmetics industry.
In 1981, he returned to his hometown, Ashtabula, and published a small weekly
newspaper for seven years, then worked for the Gazette Newspapers. Altonen retired
at age 62, immersing himself in his art and boating on Lake Erie in his 1948 allmahogany
Chris-Craft runabout. He was the instigator of FinnFest USA 2007 in
Ashtabula, rendering the logo for that year’s festival.
Altonen and his wife, Dorothy Ann (Halonen) Altonen, have been married 50
years. Dorothy also graduated from Suomi College in 1958. She recently retired as executive
director for Goodwill Industries in Ashtabula where she had been employed for 27 years.
They have two sons, three granddaughters, and a lovable “I rule the house” Basset Hound.
Chuck Altonen has self-published a book of his artwork, “Paintings and Drawings Old
and New,” a copy of which is in the Finnish American Historical Archives. He says of
Finlandia University, “It’s my favorite place in all the world,” adding that “it’s one of the
best things that came to life for Finnish Americans, and today it is a mighty school
exactly as our forebears conceived it.”
Above: a caricature of
Chuck and Dorothy
Altonen drawn by an
artist at Union Station
in St. Louis, Mo.
www.finlandia.edu 29

Lucy Regits
Lucy Regits is a cancer survivor. At eleven months old she
was diagnosed with a stage three brain tumor. Her
doctors didn’t think she would survive. But at age two she
was cured.
At Finlandia University Commencement May 2, Lucy
proudly received a bachelor of arts in Human Services. Lucy
wants to work with children – perhaps with cancer patients
and their families – or at a special needs camp.
“A lot of my doctors didn’t think I could go to college,” Lucy
says. “Well, I showed them!”
Lucy’s first year at Finlandia was not without difficulty. At
the end of the 2003-04 academic year, her GPA was only 2.0
and she was placed on academic probation. She says it was a
wake up call.
“I haven’t always had this much self-esteem,” she explains. “I
came up here on my own and I had to self-navigate. But I got
to know people over the years. I’m not alone up here like I
felt I was at the start.”
“If you ask me, Lucy is the embodiment of the Finlandia
mission,” says Kellie Raffaelli, director of Finlandia’s
Disability Student Services (DSS) and the Teaching and
Learning Center (TLC). “Her grades were low her first two
semesters here, but now her overall GPA is 3.0.”
“When I was a freshman I was afraid to go there,” Lucy says
of the TLC. “But once I started going, I loved it. They’re
really smart and they can help you. They don’t judge you. No
question is a stupid question at the TLC.”
“Kellie is like my mom, my mentor, up here,” Lucy says of
Kellie Raffaelli. “She would go out of her way to help me.
She always makes sure I’m okay. Of course, she’s supposed to
do that, but she goes above and beyond in her job.” Lucy
often babysits for Kellie’s daughter, Fiona.
“My mom said once, ‘Everywhere I go I find an angel,’” Lucy
says. “It’s true. In college, I found Kellie. Kellie is my angel
at Finlandia.”
“Everyone is different, but for me I’m no longer afraid to
raise my hand and ask a question with one minute left in
class,” Lucy notes. “If you actually go to the teachers, they’ll
help you. I’m not afraid because I know I need help.
Everyone needs help in some way.”
“I’ve never given up on something that was feasible,” Lucy
adds. “I’m stubborn like my dad. I don’t give up. I’ll read the
instructions again, or go to the TLC.”
Don Wells, TLC lead professional tutor, has helped Lucy
with writing papers, understanding various subjects, and has
been an especially big help to her in math. “Even when I was
taking a math class off-campus, Don Wells and Jeff Vader,
another Finlandia tutor, helped me, sometimes on Sundays,”
Lucy says.
Lucy also worked with TRiO Student Support Services
where Mark Cavis was her mentor. He helped her put
together a professional profile and apply for jobs.
“Mark Cavis was new to me this year, but he helped me with
some personal struggles,” Lucy says. “I felt like I could go to
him and talk.”
“My parents, my brother, and my friends have also been a
huge help in pushing me to fulfill my dreams,” Lucy adds.
Lucy is active in many community service opportunities.
Locally, she volunteers for Little Brothers Friends of the
Elderly, Habitat for Humanity, and Michigan Adopt-A-
Highway litter pick up. She twice participated in Finlandia’s
Alternative Spring Break trips, which assisted Hurricane
Katrina victims in New Orleans and Mississippi.
At home, Lucy volunteers for the Make a Wish Foundation,
and for eight years she has been involved in Relay for Life – in
2009 she was captain of her team. For five summers, Lucy has
worked as a church camp counselor, and in the summer and
on breaks she sometimes works at a grocery store in Pinckney.
Lucy graduated from Pinckney High School in 2005. She is
the daughter of Ken and Luann Lonnee Regits of Pinckney.
She has one brother, C.J., who is 19 and attends Grand Valley
State University. Lucy is a member of Pinckney Community
Congregational Church. Her mother and father own
Advanced Electronics and Communications in Brighton,
which sells and installs phone, alarm, and audio systems.
“My time at Finlandia has helped me to become an
individual, an adult. I’m ready for anything,” Lucy concludes.
30 the Bridge • Spring 2010

a l u m n i
n e w s
Do you have minute, or
maybe a little more
Finlandia University has thousands of
alumni—all over the globe! Whether
you attended Suomi College or
Finlandia, I am certain every one of
you have fond memories of your time
on our Hancock campus.
Perhaps you still remember a professor
Cheryl Ries who spent extra time to help you
understand a particular subject. That
“Eureka!” moment is seldom forgotten. Or maybe you recall
a crazy all night study session for an important exam.
Are you wondering what happened to your college friends Do
they, too, remember those late night chats when you thought
you’d die laughing, or that beautiful fall day at McClain State
Park And what are the odds that your Finlandia roommate
still has that wicked hook shot
Back then, it seemed that your lives would forever be
intertwined. But life happens after graduation! You and each
of your classmates embarked on their own life journey.
Here’s the “perhaps a little more” part… Would you take a
few minutes to share some highlights of your life journey In
turn, I’ll share your news with other alumni in the Bridge.
Who knows, a few minutes today may lead to some new “old
friends.”
Please call, e-mail, or write me a letter. The coffee’s on. Let’s
chat!
Cheryl Ries
Director of Alumni Relations
Phone: 906-487-7317 or 800-682-7604
E-mail: cheryl.ries@finlandia.edu
Paul Salsini (’55), Milwaukee, Wis., has published the
third novel in his “A Tuscan Trilogy” series. Dino’s Story:
A Novel of 1960s Tuscany describes a boy coming of age
during the terrible 1966 flood in Florence, Italy.
Salsini was born in Hubbell. He received the Suomi
College Alumnus of the Year award in 1981. He was a
reporter and editor of the Houghton Daily Mining
Gazette from 1953 to 1955, and a
reporter and editor at The
Milwaukee Journal from 1959 to
1995. He now teaches journalism
courses at Marquette University,
Milwaukee. Contact Salsini at
psalsini@execpc.com.
Dan Hakala (’66) retired this spring
from Northern Michigan
University, also stepping down as
Scoutmaster of Troop 360 after 21
years. He was honored with a
surprise party to celebrate his years of scouting. Dan is
looking forward to spending more time with his wife of
30 years, Mickey. They live in Marquette.
Wayne DeCloux (’74) was a firefighter/paramedic in
Missouri for 22 years. He has retired from the fire service
and now works as a communications specialist for
AT&T. Wayne has two grown children and two mostlygrown
children.
SAVE THE DATE!
June 25-27 2010, is the next
Finlandia University/Suomi College
all-school reunion. If you would like
to participate in planning, or would
like more information, please contact
cheryl.ries@finlandia.edu or (906)
487-7317.
Joseph Crandall (’91) lives an hour north of Detroit and
works as an arson investigator for the Detroit Fire
Department. He has been married for eleven years and
has three children.
Soren Schmidt (’94), and his wife, Rebekah, welcomed a
baby girl, Olive Elizabeth, March 10, 2010. Soren is the
university chaplain at Finlandia.
Melissa Maki (’05) and Daniel
Niemi were engaged Dec. 31,
2009. A July 17, 2010, wedding
is planned. Melissa works for
Portage Health Home Services,
Hancock. Daniel works for
PepsiCo, Houghton.
Diana Evans (’06) and Matthew
Olkowski, engaged on Dec. 3,
2009, will be married June 26,
2010. Both Diana and Matthew
are employed at Ponsse North
America, Inc., a Finnish forestry machine company,
Rhinelander, Wis.
Kasey (Engman) Nerone (’06) was nominated for the 2010
State of Minnesota Teacher of the Year Award. She serves
on the board and teaches Kindergarten at the Emily O.
Goodridge-Grey Accelerated Charter School in
Minneapolis, Minn.
www.finlandia.edu 31

Jamie Pennell (’06) lives in North Carolina and is an outdoor youth
counselor, family liaison, and a qualified professional for youth
mental health clients. Jamie remains grateful for all she learned from
former Human Services instructor Mary Tormala, and still uses
Tormala’s techniques today. While at Finlandia, Jamie received the
Lion Award for her play on the women’s softball team.
Ryan Jay Wakeham (’08) completed training at the Federal Law
Enforcement Training Center, Artesia, N.M., in January 2010,
receiving a certificate to serve as a U.S. Border Patrol Agent.
Wakeham and his wife, Jomarie, will be stationed in Arizona.
Inklings Issues Sought ––––––––––––––––––––––
The Finnish American Historical Archive is seeking past issues of
Inklings, a Suomi College student newspaper published from the late
1930s until the late 1950s. If you have copies of the Inklings
newspaper you would like to donate to the archive, please contact
James Kurtti, director of the Finnish American Heritage Center, at
906-487-7302 or james.kurtti@finlandia.edu.
Reino “Ray” Manninen (’37),
age 92, died Dec. 30, 2009, in Hancock.
Ann A. (Gray) Sved (’41),
age 91, died Jan. 19, 2010, in Milwaukee, Wis.
Harold L. Kemppainen (’70), age 88, died
April 15, 2010, in Hancock.
Eleanore B. (Brunell) Lehti,
age 87, died Jan. 11, 2010, in Grayling.
Pastor George Archer Bush,
age 85, died Nov. 5, 2009, in Big Bay. Bush
served on the Suomi College board of trustees
in the 1960s.
Wes Lematta,
age 83, died Dec. 24, 2009, in Vancouver,
Wash. Wes was a member of the Finlandia
University Finnish Council in America.
John M. Plowe (’48),
age 82, died Jan. 10, 2010, in Crystal Falls.
Aarne Armas Holmio (’48),
age 79, died Oct. 17, 2009, in Escanaba.
Nisha Lyn Boda (’88),
age 40, died Dec. 10, 2009, in Marquette.
Pictured above – front row, center – is Judy Benney Nurkkala, a 1956 Suomi
College graduate, with her family on Christmas Day 2009. Nurkkala
purchased the sisu shirts from Finlandia’s North Wind Books and shared this
photo with the bookstore. She lives in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.
2010 ALUMNI EVENTS CALENDAR
Friday, June 25 to Sunday, June 27, Hancock: All-school
reunion on the Finlandia University campus
Saturday, July 17, Hancock: 35 th Annual Hancock Canal Run
July 28 to August 1, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario: Finn Grand Fest
Saturday, July 31, Appleton, Wis.: Timber Rattlers baseball
game and alumni gathering hosted by Allen and Julie Fries
Saturday, August 7, Copper Harbor: Aspirus Keweenaw
Copperman Triathlon
David T. Halkola (’41),
age 86, died Dec. 8,
2009, in Houghton.
Halkola taught history
at Suomi College from
1948 to 1954, and
served as president of
Suomi College until
1959. In 1960 he
joined the faculty at
David Halkola Michigan Technological
University as an
assistant professor, retiring in 1988 and earning
the rank of professor emeritus. Halkola made
countless public appearances on television and
radio and was an active participant in various
national, state, and local historical societies.
For nearly 10 years, he co-hosted the weekly
program, “Current Topics” on WGGL-FM
public radio. He was a member of Gloria Dei
Lutheran Church, Hancock. Halkola is
survived by his wife, Viola, two sons, three
daughters, and numerous grandchildren and
great-grandchildren.
32 the Bridge • Spring 2010

A Copper Country Blessing
“Scott Dickson was quiet, sincere,
unassuming, and a trusted confidant
who spent 45 years giving to our
community,” writes Dave Jukuri of
Hancock in a January 2, 2010, letter
Scott Dickson
to the editor in the Daily Mining
Gazette, Houghton.
“Whether it was the Hancock Fire Department, Quincy
Mine Hoist Association, The Salvation Army, Rice
Foundation, Finlandia University, the Houghton County
Department of Social Services, or the Houghton County
Medical Care Facility, he fulfilled his duties as an employee
or officer of these organizations with dispatch and a desire to
get the job accomplished quickly.”
Scott J. Dickson, age 72, died November 19, 2009, in
Hancock. Scott was born October 23, 1937, in Chicago, Ill.,
to Scott and Mayme (Oikarinen) Dickson. He and his family
moved to Hancock when Scott was a young child. Scott
graduated from Hancock High School in 1955 and attended
Suomi College where he played basketball, was Student
Council president, and took part in drama activities. Following,
he earned a bachelor’s degree at
Northern Michigan University.
Scott was a longtime member of the
Finlandia University Alumni Board
(IAB), serving as its president for
several years. He was an active
member of the Hancock Volunteer
Fire Department for over 40 years,
and an active member of Gloria Dei
Lutheran Church, Hancock. Scott
worked for the state of Michigan for
32 years, managing two social
services offices and a 197-bed skilled
nursing home. He retired in 1997.
Memorials & In Honor Gifts
Scott Dickson (center) confers with fellow Suomi
College Student Council members Arne Henderson
(left) and Sylvia Saari (Fleishman) in 1958.
“Scott Dickson was dynamic; he exemplified Finlandia,” says
Charlene Ahola (’65), a member of the IAB. “Scott knew
that education changed lives and he loved and believed in
Finlandia and its alumni. As president of the IAB, he gave us
guidance and direction and believed that the Board, by
showing its support, would help Finlandia grow and develop.
His faith, humor, kindness, and respect allowed us to reach
goals and achieve more. He will be missed by all of us.”
Sylvia Fleishman (’58), Finlandia Board of Trustees
president, was Scott’s classmate at Suomi College in the late
1950s. “He was very active in student government,”
Fleishman recalls. “Even when he was a student, one could
see that he would become a community leader. My memories
of him are all positive. He was the kind of person that when
I saw him again, it was easy to pick up where we left off. He
was comfortable to be with, and honest, sincere, and
genuine. I consider myself blessed to have known him.”
Scott is survived by his wife of 44 years, Martha (Patterson)
Dickson, a daughter and a son, and a granddaughter, among
others. The family suggests memorials in Scott’s name to Gloria
Dei Lutheran Church, Hancock, or Finlandia University.
“A great leader never asks for accolades. Scotty didn’t either,”
Jukuri concludes his letter to the editor. “We have had a great
loss to our community. When you see his wife, Martha, or his
children, please thank them for
sharing their husband and father
with us. He truly blessed the
Copper Country with his deeds.”
If you would like to contribute to the
Finlandia University Scott Dickson
Memorial Scholarship Fund, please
send your check to the President’s
Office at Finlandia University, 601
Quincy St., Hancock, MI 49930.
Please indicate on your check that
your gift is for the Scott Dickson
Scholarship.
MEMORIALS
11/1/09-3/31/10
Syme Vaataja Atkyns
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Becvar
George A. Bush
David Dearmyer
Scott Dickson
Anna Holmes Esala
Dolores (Sormunen) Fennell
Charles Gebhardt
Rev. Melvin Hagelberg
David T. Halkola
Dr. Bernhard Hillila & Esther
Halttunen Hillila
Dr. Armas Holmio
Linda Susan Elliot Horton
Kim I. Poikonen Jarvi
Veikko Jarvinen
Edward Johnson
Bessie Kangas
Phyllis Kangas
Dr. Paul E. Karvonen
Aune Koski
John & Tilda Koski
Marion F. Kuehn
Rev. Wayne Kuusisto
Helvi Leino
Aileen & Wesley Leppanen
Pekka Leppanen
Dr. John J. Linna
Taimi Maki
Voitto Mutka
Rev. K.V. & Impi Mykkanen
Kaarlo W. Nasi
Emil & Maria Puotinen
Judy Puotinen
Rev. Dr. E. Olaf Rankinen
Helen Toivonen Reichardt
Rev. Robert Richardson
K.A. Ruona
Mr. & Mrs. John Saukkonen
Mr. & Mrs. Russell Simmerer
George B. Soobus
Alli Suik
Rev. Wilbert Tormala
John Raymond Tuuri
Dr. Robert S. Wilch
Ila Wuorinen
IN HONOR
11/1/09-3/31/10
Siblings of Rev. Dr. & Mrs.
Antti Lepisto
Dan Maki
Mr. & Mrs. Phil Michel
Edith Niederer (birthday)
Ken & Lois Seaton
Robert & Jean Seaton
Colleen Smith
Richard Smith
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Finlandia University
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Michigan’s Columbus: the Life of Douglass Houghton, by Steve Lehto
The name “Houghton” is well-known to Michiganians. It graces a city, a county, a lake, waterfalls,
schools, and more. But what made Douglass Houghton such a “star” This is his story. As the
fledgling state’s first geologist, he discovered more than any explorer before him–from salt
springs to gypsum. His reports helped launch a “rush” to the Keweenaw Peninsula’s Copper
Country. He was also elected mayor of Detroit and taught at the University of Michigan, all before
the age of thirty-six. Momentum Books, 2009.
Paperback ..........................................................................................................................$19.95
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Almanac, by Ron Jolly and Karl Bohnak
This is a comprehensive guide for every resident, visitor, and student of Michigan’s Upper
Peninsula. The almanac covers every acre of the wild and beautiful U.P., including information on
businesses, tourism, agriculture, sports, weather, casinos, and other topics that will keep you
referring to the book time and again. University of Michigan Press & Petoskey Publishing, 2009.
Paperback ..........................................................................................................................$27.95
Walking Paths & Protected Areas of the Keweenaw
This 80-page, one-of-its-kind guidebook describes 22 nature sanctuaries and preserves in
Houghton and Keweenaw counties. Each description in this easy-to-use guidebook includes
driving directions, a trail map, unique plants and animals, a description of the geology, the
conservation history, along with color photos of each site. Michigan Nature Association, 2009.
Paperback ..........................................................................................................................$14.95
One Child, One Planet, by Bridget McGovern Llewellyn
Children of all ages will be captivated by this loving tribute to Mother Earth, her gifts and her
greatest concerns. Young or old, everyone’s actions make a difference. Loose-rhyming text and
awe-inspiring photography are woven into a family treasure that will inspire excitement and
responsibility toward the planet. Emerald Shamrock Press, 2009.
Hardcover ..........................................................................................................................$19.95