The National Union of Students in Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences – SAMOK celebrated its 30th anniversary today, 6 June 2026, at Restaurant Töölö together with members, alumni, stakeholders and partners. At this point, we would also like to thank everyone who attended the celebration, as well as our event partners: Akava Students, JHL, STTK, Talentia, the Technology Industries of Finland, and the Union of Engineering Students.
Badges of merit and table banners were awarded to distinguished individuals and organisations at the anniversary gala.
One golden badge of merit was awarded, and it was presented to Member of Parliament Joona Räsänen. The justification for the award included the following: Joona is a former Vice President and over the years he has proven to be an active and valuable alumnus. Following his own term at SAMOK, he has been a prominent societal influencer in the political arena. Even though some time has passed since his term at SAMOK, he is always ready to attend various events and panels to represent and share his experiences of the student field, as well as to comment on current topics in student politics and society.
Four silver badges of merit were awarded to the following individuals based on the following grounds:
Elin Blomqvist-Valtonen: Elin is a former President of the union and deserves recognition for how she has been an invaluable support to many union presidents after her own term. She has also frequently been ready to help the union and board members with various issues, and she has also served as a mentor. Since her term, she has pursued a versatile career in both the NGO sector and politics, where she highlights investment in education.
Jouni Parkkonen: Jouni has served in the union as both an elected official and an employee. Following his own years at SAMOK, he has built a career in both politics and advocacy. In addition to a commendable career path, this reliable alumnus has served in various roles related to SAMOK, such as a performance auditor. As an alumnus, he has maintained a strong connection to the union and has supported our activities in many different ways over the years.
Anniina Sippola: Anniina has served as both an elected official and an employee of the union. She is an important part of SAMOK’s recent history and deserves recognition for her solid contribution to SAMOK for the benefit of the student movement. Since leaving the union, she has proven to be a committed alumnus who has also acted as a unifying force for the entire UAS sector.
Mikko Valtonen: Mikko is a former President and after his own term, he has continued his work in both the NGO sector and politics. Throughout all stages of his career, he has maintained close cooperation with SAMOK’s actors and promoted the interests of universities of applied sciences students. In his various roles, he has been active in educational policy issues and has worked strongly to raise the appreciation of university of applied sciences education.
Eight SAMOK table banners and certificates of honour were presented at the gala to the following individuals and organisations: Iiris Hynönen, Anette Karlsson, Kristiina Kokko, Anna Laurila, Olivia Löytänen, Miisa Tervala, as well as the Union of Professional Engineers in Finland and the Professionals of Business and Technology (Tradenomit). The table banners and certificates of honour were awarded on the grounds of work done for university of applied sciences students and the National Union of Students in Finnish Universities of Applied Sciences.
Further information:
Helena Maijanen, President
050 389 1000
[email protected]