Going Viking Honorees

Going viking, despite English propaganda, is very much alive. Anglicized historians who say it is over are simply stuck in the tenth century, in a narrow, outmoded definition. Going viking today and in more recent history has a broader though not entirely different meaning from the spirit of the Vikings— “to be venturesome, explore, discover; to exert oneself, aspire; to take a stab at, have a go or crack or whack, or shot at; to pursue hard, bold, dangerous, or important undertakings.” Going viking, a vital characteristic of the Nordic culture and civilization, is a mix of endeavor and a thirst for adventure. A sustained proclivity of Nordic Americans, it is a force energizing American culture as well.

Honorees

2011
Libby Larsen – Composer
Rep. Jim Ramstad – U.S. Congressman
Eric Utne – Journalist, educator and social entrepeneur

2010

Dr. Peter Agre – Augsburg College
Dr. Joyce Nelson – Augustana College
Greg Mortenson – Concordia College
Dr. David Preus – Luther College
Gary Gandrud – St. Olaf College

Read more about our 2010 Honorees »

2009
Margaret Anderson Kelliher
Betty McCollum
Roger Moe
Al Quie
Martin Olav Sabo

2008
Earl Bakken
Ken Dahlberg
Janet Dolan
Carl Platou
Winston Wallin