Friday, June 20
Presentation
3.45–4.45 pm, Viking Theater
“Fred Kavli: A Legacy of Innovation, Philanthropy, and Scientific
Vision,” with Petra Hand (The Kavli Foundation) and Hans-Olav Solli
(Romsdal Museum)
Reception for Exhibit Opening
5:00–6:15 p.m., Groot Gallery, Center for Art and Dance
Friday afternoon offers opportunities to
learn more about Norwegian immigrant
Fred Kavli and The Kavli Foundation.
First, join us for the presentation, “Fred
Kavli: A Legacy of Innovation,
Philanthropy, and Scientific Vision,”
presented by Petra Hand of The Kavli
Foundation and Hans-Olav Solli of the Romsdal Museum.
Immediately after the session, all are invited to a festive reception
sponsored by the foundation. Remarks begin at 5:30, and will include Hanne Monclair, Counselor of Science, Technology, and Higher Education at Royal Norwegian Embassy, Washington D.C.
The Kavli Foundation was established in 2000 by Norwegian-
American entrepreneur Fred Kavli with the mission to advance science
for the benefit of humanity. Dedicated to supporting fundamental
research, the foundation focuses on three frontier fields—astrophysics,
nanoscience, and neuroscience—areas that explore the big, the small,
and the complex. It funds leading research institutes, promotes public
understanding of science, and awards the prestigious Kavli Prize in
collaboration with Norwegian institutions. These biennial prizes
recognize groundbreaking scientific achievements that deepen our
understanding of the universe and ourselves.
Fred Kavli was born in 1927 in the village of Eresfjord, Norway,
where the beauty and isolation of the
natural landscape sparked a lifelong
curiosity about the world. After
studying applied physics and gaining
hands-on engineering experience
during World War II, he immigrated
to the United States and rose quickly
in the aerospace industry. In 1958, he
founded Kavlico, a company that
became a global leader in sensor
technology. Following its sale in
2000, Kavli dedicated his wealth to
science philanthropy. Until his death
in 2013, he remained actively involved in The Kavli Foundation, which continues to support transformative scientific research. To learn more about The Kavli Foundation, visit kavlifoundation.org .
The exhibit, Illuminating 200 Years of Migration: A
Centennial Exhibit of the Norwegian American Historical
Association, highlights the experiences of individuals and
communities who helped shape the cultural and physical landscape
while maintaining strong ties to their heritage. From wartime courage
to artistic and entrepreneurial achievements, these stories speak to
themes of resilience, identity, and connection. Through photographs,
letters, newspapers, and artifacts, visitors can explore how Norwegian
Americans built community, adapted to change, and contributed to
the shared history of the United States and Canada.
Marking the 100th anniversary of the Norwegian American Historical
Association, the exhibit draws from NAHA’s extensive archival
collections to reflect on two centuries of movement, memory, and
meaning. Every object—from handwritten letters to rare
photographs—offers a glimpse into the lives, struggles, and aspirations
of Norwegian immigrants.