Olav Thon’s work and interests were diverse. There were many who knew him better than I did, but in our many conversations, there are perhaps three perspectives that I want to highlight, which have meant a lot for the University of Oslo and for Norwegian higher education.
His visions inspire us all, writes UiO rector Svein Stølen about Olav Thon.
Gry Traaen, Olav Thon Foundation
Olav was concerned with people and ensuring that individuals had the opportunity to develop. Education was close to his heart. He was also a technological optimist with great faith in the power of knowledge, and he was uncompromisingly focused on quality. When the Olav Thon Foundation was established in December 2013, education and research were included among the charitable purposes to be supported.
The awards were somewhat innovative. A large international research prize and support for Nordic collaboration in medicine were complemented by national awards for outstanding teaching, support for education-related research, and support for student-active research. We truly need to celebrate top-tier research, but I believe we equally need to celebrate outstanding teaching and support innovative thinking both in education and student involvement. Additionally, Olav was a great enthusiast for Nordic studies and saw the value of and supported Nordic collaboration. This always led to wonderful Thon ceremonies in the university’s auditorium, where these various perspectives were highlighted and celebrated with a bit of pomp and circumstance — and with great and genuine joy.
Olav Thon was a pioneer and an example of how private individuals can make a significant difference in society. A philanthropist businessman who donated the wealth he had created through hard work to charitable purposes. Significant portions were donated to research and higher education; to knowledge. Knowledge that is important for individual human development and for society’s development as a whole. The effects of such awards are difficult to measure concretely, but for us who see how, for example, the focus on quality in teaching has received much more attention in recent years, and how we are constantly improving our ability to involve students in research, it is obvious that the effect is both large and significant. The resources for the leading research environments contribute to further developing these areas — and this is necessary in the fiercely competitive international arena that research is.
Our meetings and conversations were always good; they often revolved around the joy of hard, meaningful work — it does no good to lie idle. They dealt with education and research, but as much about shared interests such as mountain hiking, our recent history, about DNT, folk music, and not least the joy of robust choir singing. Olav supported The Norwegian Students’ Singing Association (DnS) both financially and morally. I last met him when DnS sang for our shared joy from the auditorium steps on May 17 (which they have done since 1864, except during the war years). I have also greatly enjoyed sharing several festive DnS song evenings with him. Life must be celebrated, and I believe Olav did both in such gatherings, but also in his modest way each day.
Olav Thon thought long-term in the commercial arena, and he certainly did so within research and higher education as well. His visions inspire us all.
My thoughts go to Sissel and all his friends and loved ones. A thousand thanks from the University of Oslo and the Norwegian university and college sector.
Svein Stølen, rector at the University of Oslo
How did Olav Thon’s approach to philanthropy differ from traditional models in education?
Interview: Olav Thon’s Legacy in Higher Education
Interviewer: Sofia Lind, Editor at Time.news
Expert: Gry Traaen, Olav Thon Foundation
Sofia: Good day, Gry, and thank you for joining us to discuss the incredible impact Olav Thon had on education and research in Norway. It’s evident from your reflections that his legacy resonated deeply at the University of Oslo. Can you share what made Olav such a unique figure in the realm of philanthropy and education?
Gry: Thank you for having me, Sofia. Olav was a remarkable individual, not just for his business acumen, but for his unwavering commitment to the development of people and education. He genuinely believed in the power of knowledge, which drove his passion for supporting educational initiatives. His vision for higher education was comprehensive; he understood the importance of quality teaching complemented by research.
Sofia: You mentioned his belief in “technological optimism.” How did this perspective influence his philanthropic efforts, particularly in the context of Nordic collaboration?
Gry: Olav’s optimism about technology stemmed from his understanding that advancements in knowledge could transform lives. He actively supported Nordic studies and believed in the value of collaboration among the Nordic countries. This was reflected in initiatives like the international research prize and support for collaborative projects in medicine. By facilitating partnerships, he fostered an environment where innovative ideas could flourish across borders.
Sofia: It’s fascinating to see the blend of ambition and support for education. You also highlighted that Olav celebrated teaching excellence, not just research. Why do you think this balance is crucial?
Gry: It’s essential because both teaching and research are intertwined; great teaching inspires students and propels them towards innovative thinking. By celebrating outstanding educators, Olav ensured that quality teaching received the recognition it deserves. This shift in focus has led to a remarkable improvement in student engagement and active learning—truly, it’s about nurturing the next generation of thinkers and leaders.
Sofia: Reflecting on his philanthropic model, what insights do you think other philanthropists could learn from Olav’s approach?
Gry: I believe the key takeaway is the importance of being hands-on and genuinely involved in the causes you support. Olav wasn’t just a funding source; he was present at events, engaged with the researchers, and truly cared about making a difference. His legacy teaches us that philanthropy is not only about financial contributions but also about inspiring passion and cultivating talent in the community.
Sofia: That genuine involvement indeed makes a significant difference. As we move forward, how can institutions continue to honor his legacy?
Gry: I think it starts with continuing to prioritize education and research quality, alongside fostering collaboration and support for active learning. Institutions can emulate Olav’s model by developing programs that celebrate both groundbreaking research and outstanding teaching. Moreover, creating opportunities for student participation in these spheres is essential.
Sofia: A commitment to both education and research indeed provides a promising future. In closing, Gry, what do you hope will be the lasting impact of Olav Thon’s contributions to Norwegian society?
Gry: I hope that Olav’s contributions will inspire a culture where education is seen as a lifelong journey, supported by both public and private sectors. His dream was to create a sustainable environment in which knowledge proliferates, ultimately benefiting society as a whole. If we uphold that vision while adapting to the modern world, I believe his legacy will endure for generations to come.
Sofia: Thank you so much, Gry. It’s inspiring to hear how Olav Thon’s ideals continue to shape higher education in Norway. Your insights into his legacy will certainly resonate with our readers.
Gry: Thank you, Sofia. It’s been a pleasure discussing Olav’s profound impact on education and society.
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End of Interview