Juha Hiltunen Named HAMK Alum of the Year 2025

Juha Hiltunen, Integration Manager for City of Riihimäki and Director of International House Riihimäki, has been chosen as HAMK Alum of the Year 2025. He is a bold innovator who explores and tests new approaches to promote integration and internationalisation. His pioneering work in this field and close cooperation with HAMK make him an exemplary alum.

Juha Hiltunen serves as Integration Manager for the City of Riihimäki and the Southern Häme Employment Area, as well as Director of International House Riihimäki.

He graduated in 2020 with a Master’s degree in Development and Management of Social and Health Care Services from HAMK. His career path is an excellent example of how a Master’s Degree can open doors to leadership roles and multidisciplinary expertise.

“Master’s studies at HAMK gave me not only a higher education qualification but also the tools to work as a leader and a developer. Even though my path led outside the social and health sector, the basics of leadership remain the same regardless of the environment. In my current role, we are still very close to the social and health interface and work closely with the wellbeing services county. So thank you HAMK for these tools!” Hiltunen comments.

Hiltunen leads Riihimäki’s extensive and inclusive internationalisation programme. Its aim is to attract and retain international talent in the region, strengthen community spirit and renewal, and recognise the skills of immigrants. The programme includes concrete actions that support two-way integration and enhance the vitality of the area.

HAMK and the City of Riihimäki work closely together on internationalisation. This cooperation has included joint recruitment, internships and a mentoring programme. It has also strengthened Finnish language learning and community building.

Juha Hiltunen’s example shows that internationalisation requires action, not just words. His leadership and diverse collaboration with HAMK are tangible examples of how a city and a university can work together to build regional vitality and sustainable internationalisation.

“I am deeply grateful for this recognition, but I want to emphasise that this achievement is not mine alone – thanks go to my team, the leadership of Riihimäki, and HAMK’s Head of International Affairs and team. Together we have already achieved a lot, and the journey continues towards a more international and vibrant Riihimäki and Kanta-Häme,” Hiltunen envisions.