Sauna Lost in Translation: Restoring Finnishness to a Global Tradition
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FINGER LAKES FINNS WELCOME EERO KILPI,
FINLANDIA FOUNDATION NATIONAL LECTURER OF THE YEAR
On Sunday, May 18th, 2:00 PM, at the Newfield Fire Hall, the Finger Lakes Finns will host Eero Kilpi, Finlandia Foundation National Lecturer of the Year.
The public is invited to hear Mr. Kilpi’s lecture, “Sauna Lost in Translation: Restoring Finnishness to a Global Tradition,” which explores the history of global bathing cultures, from Lakota sweat lodges to Japanese onsen. Eero delves into how Finnish traditions can reclaim their central role in sauna culture in the United States, offering a thought-provoking journey through the past and future of this cherished practice.
Eero Kilpi is a Finnish native with over 26 years of experience in New York, combining expertise in business, cultural promotion, and innovation. Holding a PhD in Business Administration from Aalto University, his career includes leadership in private equity, international trade, and marketing management, with a strong focus on fostering meaningful connections between Finland and the world.
As founding member and Chairman of the North American Sauna Society, Eero has championed the Finnish sauna tradition for over two decades, bringing its wellness and cultural significance to prominence across North America. His work has been featured in The New York Times and Forbes, and he currently co-hosts The Upper Bench podcast, exploring sauna culture in-depth.
Eero serves as President of the Finlandia Foundation New York Metropolitan Chapter, leading efforts to celebrate and preservice Finnish heritage in the U.S.
This Lecturer of the Year Presentation is made possible thanks to grants from Finlandia Foundation National and Tompkins County Tourism.
