My name is Cindy Hatlevik. I currently serve on the MNLCP committee and have also been a long-time student.

Thinking back on how it all started, maybe it’s the same story as many of you.  My ancestry is Norwegian and I grew up with traditions and knowing just a few phrases.  But I wanted to learn more and maybe, if I was lucky…reconnect with relatives in Norway.  So, I took the first step and enrolled in language classes being held at the Sons of Norway headquarters on Lake Street.  Little did I know that by taking that first step how lucky I would be and how my life would be enriched and blessed. 

With my friends from class, we explored the Twin Cities Norwegian community and at the center of that was Mindekirken.  Mindekirken became my church home and a delightful immersion into Norwegian culture.  Over the years, I’ve served in many capacities and it’s where I met and married my husband Magne.  Together, Magne and I have been on many travel adventures throughout Norway, Scandinavia and the rest of Europe. 

And through it all, there’s been the language classes.  Vocabulary, grammar and interesting books – good brain exercises but am I really learning anything?  Yes, those ah-ha moments do happen!  Reading a book or letter without looking up words or, even more special - being able to visit and build ties with family and friends in Norway.   

I became a MNLCP committee member soon after the language program came to Mindekirken.  Our committee is small but everyone brings their expertise and skills and we work well together. 

The program has grown and evolved; always with the goal of providing the best learning experience possible for the students.

Taking Norwegian language classes has opened many avenues in my life and if you are thinking about taking classes, it might be the same for you!