The Danish American Heritage Society presents its third international conference in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This time we will focus on understanding both contemporary and historical innovations characteristic of Danish and Danish-American society.
In Denmark these days the word “innovation” is prevalent in many areas of society. Most notably we see it in the focus on alternative energy, where Denmark today holds one of the world’s most ambitious national plans for production and consumption of renewable energy. Therefore the United Nations Climate Council will be hosted in Copenhagen this year 2009, leading to a follow up on the Kyoto Protocol.In the realm of architecture and design Denmark is also attracting attention with an esthetic of simplicity, a sensuous use of materials and a strong focus on usability. All striking innovative ideas will find its place in history, and looking back in time there are many people and ideas rooted in Danish culture having made their impression on the world. To name but a few Tycho Brahe, the renaissance astronomer and Niels Bohr, the 20.th century scientist, are renowned for their discoveries and scientific breakthroughs. H.C. Andersen not only entertains with his fairytales, but feeds the avid reader with psychological and cultural truths. Piet Hein who wrote the quirky, funny and wise Grooks, was a multifaceted artist and designer set on changing people’s everyday lives.As the program reveals we will hear about all of these issues, and more.
Noted speakers:
Denmark’s Ambassador to the United States, Friis Arne Petersen, a distinguished diplomat in the Danish Foreign Service will give us a preview of the highest political priority for the Government of Denmark at the moment, hosting the United Nations conference on climate change, COP15.
Ambassador Petersen is joined by Jorgen Mads Clausen, former President and CEO of Danfoss, now Chairman of the board of Sauer-Danfoss. A prominent innovator in business and industry, he is known for his style of management valuing social and environmental responsibility.
Marianna Lubanski, Executive Director of Innovation Center Denmark in Palo Alto, will talk about the political changes and innovations within the Danish business and industry sector.
Finally Janet Crowle, Victor Borges daughter, will present a film shedding new light on the extraordinary life of her father.
The program will focus on a range of topics covering history, politics, technology, science, art and culture, including a presentation on the new research funded by DAHS scholarships.
Furthermore we will have a special session “Building the Future”, where all Danish organizations in America are invited to explore new ways of working together.
