Pictured Above: Augustana University Alumni, Staff and Friends; Photo Courtesy of Dr. Mike Nitz
Augustana University joined five other colleges and universities in Oslo, Norway, on Thursday, May 15, to celebrate 100 years of Norwegian-American Educational Cooperation.
The six universities – Augsburg University, Augustana University, Concordia College, Luther College, Pacific Lutheran University and St. Olaf College – were all founded by Norwegian immigrants. For generations, these institutions have welcomed Norwegian students and maintained strong ties to Norway. With academics, diplomats, business leaders and guests from both countries, the celebration was a tribute to shared history, knowledge and future cooperation.
The Norway-America Association (NORAM) served as the local co-host, with His Majesty King Harald V, the association’s high patron, present as a guest of honor. Ine Eriksen Søreide, former minister of Foreign Affairs, minister of Defence and chair of the Norwegian Parliament’s Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defense, delivered the keynote speech during the official program.
“At a time when transatlantic relations are being challenged, it is more important than ever to strengthen student exchanges. The relationship with the United States is about more than trade and defence – it is also about knowledge, understanding and common values,” said Secretary General of the NORAM Hanne K. Aaberg.
Along with approximately 40 Augustana alumni, Dr. Michael Nitz, coordinator of Norwegian programs, and Donn Grinager, director of international admission, represented the university at Fanehallen at Akershus Fortress in Oslo, as well as at post-event activities.
Highlights of the event included the launch of a Norway-Alumni Network shared by the six Norwegian-American institutions — an effort led by Augustana alumnus Michael Tveter ‘13, of Norway. Tveter also organized and hosted an educational symposium on U.S./Norway higher education trends. Augustana alumna Julia Radtke '24, a Northfield, Minnesota, native, who received a Fulbright U.S. Student Program Award from the U.S. Department of State to study in Norway, also presented her work on Norwegian bird migration and nesting.
“This year’s event built on the great foundation laid by Augustana at last year’s 100 Years of Homecoming celebration in Norway. I am always energized by our Norwegian alumni. Whether it is hosting students for homestays, arranging field experiences for classes or connecting us with key leaders, our alumni always do an amazing job,” said Nitz, also a professor of Communication Studies and program director of International Studies at Augustana.
The commemoration also marked the anniversary of the first organized Norwegian emigration to North America – 200 years after the first emigrants left Norway.
