About the Scandinavian Cultural Center
What is the SCC?
The Scandinavian Cultural Center (SCC) at Pacific Lutheran University welcomes you to explore Nordic-American traditions. Our center, located on the ground floor of the Anderson University Center, features a great hall, exhibition galleries, and a demonstration kitchen, all dedicated to celebrating this vibrant culture. We offer a variety of exhibitions, events, and programs for all ages.
The SCC is a gathering place for the Puget Sound’s Nordic-American community. Local Nordic groups are welcome to use our center for banquets, meetings, and events.
PLU's Scandinavian Heritage
Scandinavian immigrants and their descendants have had a distinct influence on Pacific Lutheran University. Since its founding in 1890 by Norwegian minister Bjug Harstad, PLU has nurtured its Nordic roots. Today, evidence of these strong Scandinavian ties is seen in the SCC and the Scandinavian Immigrant Experience Collection (located in the University Library). Strolling across campus, one encounters numerous buildings bearing Scandinavian names and works of art reflecting the University’s rich Nordic heritage. In addition, PLU has cultivated exchange programs with faculty and students from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden.
About the Council
Cultural Council
The Cultural Council consists of the members of the Executive Board, standing committee chairs and co-chairs, and at least one person of Nordic heritage to represent each of the five Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden). The Cultural Council meets monthly to plan and organize events and exhibits sponsored by the Cultural Center.
Gerda Hunter
The President presides at meetings of the Executive Board and the Cultural Council, performs such duties as ordinarily pertain to the office, and oversees the planning of the activities of the SCC.
Lisa Ottoson
The Vice President presides at meetings of the Executive Board and the Cultural Council in the absence of the President and performs other duties as pertain to the office.
Gerd-Inger McDougall
The Secretary records the minutes of the Executive Board and Council meetings, sends out notices of meetings, and preserves the minutes of all meetings.
Kate Emanuel-French
The Treasurer collaborates with the council and immediate supervisor to prepare the monthly budget and verify monthly financial reports, and is responsible for the collection of admission fees at SCC events.