As Executive Director, I oversee all aspects of our Program both in the U.S. and in Stockholm. I started The Swedish Program while I was a professor at Hamilton College in 1987. I first went to Stockholm in 1984 to do research on workplace democracy at Swedish companies, such as Volvo, Ericsson, Saab, and Electrolux.
I sincerely believe that studying abroad is a transformative experience. Our students are fortunate to study in a country that practices the values of global citizenship: tolerance, diversity, solidarity, and international understanding.
I enjoy golf, cooking, gardening, and finding new restaurants to visit with friends and family. I am an avid Celtics and Buffalo Bills fan!
Ph.D. in Sociology, in 1982 from the University of Pittsburgh
I’m responsible for all work related to student acceptance, program bookkeeping, and coordinating all communication with our staff in Stockholm regarding acceptance, housing, arrivals, and any other issues that may arise. I also assist in the recruitment of our students.
Prior to working for the Program, I owned and operated a child daycare for fifteen years. I have obtained an Associate Degree in Office Technology and a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications.
I enjoy family time, skiing, exercising, soccer, vacationing, and just relaxing by the poolside in the summer months.
My goal is to help students explore their unique personal and academic goals for study abroad and examine how they align with the curriculum and philosophy of the Swedish Program. You’ll see me at campus events, in your Education Abroad office, or virtually in a Zoom info session. I also work collaboratively with advisors and our Consortium Members to support their efforts in promoting study abroad.
I was introduced to the Swedish Program as a study abroad advisor, while at Penn in 2011, and have remained closely connected with The Program through the years. My professional journey through international education was inspired by my experience teaching English in Yamanashi, Japan and the many faces and places in between.
I enjoy nature and hiking, traveling, volunteering at a neighborhood community garden, visiting pick-your-own flower fields, and spoiling our sweet kitties.
As Director of The Swedish Program, I’m responsible for all aspects of the program in Stockholm. Once students arrive, the team and I are dedicated to making them feel welcome and supporting their transition into Swedish culture and academic life. With a background in academia, I take pride in the quality of our courses and am passionate about continuously developing our curriculum and teaching philosophy. What I enjoy most is connecting with students – hearing their stories, supporting their growth, and learning from them in return.
Originally from Germany, I moved to Sweden in 2014 and understand the joys and challenges of adapting to life here. I joined the Swedish Program in 2025 after many years of university teaching, research in psychology, and clinical work. My academic interests include emotion psychology, attachment theory, and psychotherapy research. I teach the Swedish Program course, “The Psychology of Emotion and Relationships.”
Outside of work, I enjoy time with family and friends, yoga and meditation, audiobooks, and cheering on my son’s soccer team. I also love music and art, and look forward to sharing those experiences with students during our events and trips.
Ph.D. in Psychology from Stockholm University, Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Psychotherapist
My passion for working in an international learning environment is deeply rooted in my own experience as an international student, where walking in the shoes of our student body has fostered my commitment to helping students navigate the daily challenges and opportunities they face during their study abroad experience.
My responsibilities include organizing program activities and trips, student apartments, and supporting students during their time in Stockholm.
Born and raised in Stockholm, I moved to New York City in 2013, where I earned my BBA in General Business from Berkeley College in 2017. Since then, I have mainly worked in the global mobility field, until I joined the program in August 2023.
In my free time, you’ll likely find me relaxing on a boat in the archipelago, reading a mystery novel, or trying out a new pasta recipe.
My goal is to help students get the most out of their experience in Stockholm. My primary areas of responsibility are student health and safety, policies and communication, and local partnerships such as our internship and contact family programs. I joined the Swedish Program in 2016.
I’m originally from Milwaukee, WI, where I earned my master’s degree in Sociology. I moved to Stockholm in 2012 and have since become a naturalized Swedish citizen. In my free time, I enjoy reading, playing the drums, and walks with my senior dog.
With over three decades in the program, including many years steering the ship in Stockholm as admin manager, I’ve now stepped into a part-time controller role. I look forward to helping the new administrative team when needed, but my focus now will be on the financial side of the Program in Stockholm
These days, when I’m not working, I’m likely exploring the world, swinging a padel racket, crafting silver jewelry, or enjoying good company with family and friends.
The Swedish Program (formally “The Swedish Program in Organizational Studies and Public Policy”) is incorporated as a non-profit organization. We are affiliated with the Stockholm School of Economics and sponsored by a consortium of American colleges and universities.
Amelia is a Swedish Program alum and has been a Trustee since 2022. A graduate of Colgate University, Amelia started her career in the international education field working with high school study abroad programs. Today, she supports recruiting and performance across Bain Capital’s Investor Relations, Sustainability and Impact, Operations, and Communications functions.
Jim has worked on international education and foreign policy issues in higher education, government and non-governmental organizations, with a focus on the Middle East and North Africa.
Deb advises boards and senior executives on executive compensation, governance, and related regulatory and legal matters. A Swedish Program alum (89’) with legacy (Caprice, her daughter, 24’), she maintains close ties with Scandinavia, having recently opened a Nordic importing store in the Hudson Valley.
Tony is the author of numerous books on American gothic writers, primarily on Edgar Allen Poe and Stephen King. Tony also has published books on poetry.
Philip works at the intersection of growth, marketing, and media sales at his creative studio Lightmile Media based in NYC. Philip is an alumnus of The Swedish Program, and studied Economics at Harvard University.
The long days of Swedish summer linger into the early fall months. Visiting the seasonal markets, viewing the lights of the city, and sampling traditional holiday treats leave our Fall students with lasting memories.
Prior research interests included the sociology of food and organizational development at various Swedish companies.
"The Swedish Program gave me an incredible opportunity to spend four amazing months in Sweden. From getting picked up at the airport to my last night out, everything was perfect, and I am truly thankful for the Program. The staff was amazing, giving us every opportunity to explore the city, become part of the culture, and giving me a home."
