“My role is to help people succeed in their own work," says Janne Salminen, Professor of Public Law, who continues as the Dean of the Faculty of Law also under the new Rectorship. He wants to focus on the basics: high-quality research and teaching.
You started as the Dean of the Faculty of Law in January 2024 after the retirement of your predecessor Anne Kumpula. How was your first year as the Dean?
I had a great year in 2024, thanks to our community. We had many significant successes and our everyday work was at a high level. Most importantly, we spent time together and supported each other. The campus is alive with activity. It seems that doctoral researchers, in particular, have started to work on the campus. Our students are also enthusiastic. Of course, there is room for improvement. We did not achieve all our objectives. In my own research and teaching, I was able to work towards my goals productively.
How do you plan to develop the Faculty in the next five years?
We do things here together. I try to help people succeed and keep the focus on the basics: high-quality research and teaching as well as learning. Without them, we have very little. Work and student well-being also needs special attention.
What are the keys to the success of the Faculty and the well-being of its staff and students?
We succeed by investing in quality and in research and learning with an academic curiosity. By listening and trusting each other and working together, we can always do better.
What kind of a leader do you want to be?
My role in this community is to help people succeed in their own work as researchers, teachers and students. I think I know what my strengths are. I believe that each leader succeeds best by relying on their own strengths. I hope to remain calm, courageous, open and capable of making decisions.
What motivates you in the Dean’s work?
I am inspired by the enormous passion that people in this community have for what they do.
What are your interests besides law?
I’m interested in many things: Europe, contemporary art, theatre, music, cooking, forest, sports. You have to try to learn new things and gain experiences. That’s what supports your recovery and renewal.
