NEWS

AY2025 Friends of ICU Awards were Awarded

Update: April 8, 2025

Left: Chizuru Tomita, Middle: Mieko Ishidate, Right: Akiko Nishizawa

The Friends of ICU Award was presented at the Spring Commencement Ceremony in the University Chapel on Tuesday, March 24. Each year, the "Friends of ICU Award" is conferred upon students, staff, faculty members, or members of the ICU community who have performed outstanding meritorious activities. For the AY2025, Iehiro & Chizuru Tomita (Dormitory Manager) and Akiko Nishizawa & Mieko Ishidate（ICU Nagauta Kenkyukai Instructors）were awarded. They would be awarded with a supplementary prize which is entirely supported by donations to ICU.

Iehiro & Chizuru Tomita (Dormitory Manager)

For over twenty years, Mr. Iehiro Tomita and Ms. Chizuru Tomita devoted themselves to supporting ICU students in numerous dormitories. Their journey has extended far beyond the duties of dormitory management, serving as a true embodiment of the "sincere and single-minded dedication to service" championed by our founding president, Hachiro Yuasa. Affectionately known as "Tomi-jii" and "Chiko-san", they have always remained closest to the residents, guiding them with both loving strictness and gentle warmth. Their sincere and unwavering dedication has touched the lives and shaped the growth of more than a thousand alumni. In deep respect and profound gratitude for your immense contributions, we are honored to present you with the Friends of ICU Award. Congratulations.

Akiko Nishizawa & Mieko Ishidate（ICU Nagauta Kenkyukai Instructors）

At International Christian University Nagauta Kenkyukai (Shamisen Club), Ms. Akiko Nishizawa has dedicated fifty years to teaching the Shamisen since its founding, and Ms. Mieko Ishidate has devoted thirty years to teaching Uta (Nagauta). Together, they have made immense contributions to the educational activities of ICU. Under the profound conviction that "those who stand on the international stage must be able to speak of Japanese culture," they have taught not only the art itself but also essential principles of etiquette and discipline. The legacy in fostering outstanding individuals who have gone on to thrive both in Japan and abroad is truly worthy of the highest praise. We express our deepest respect for the passion they have poured into cultivating the character and humanity of ICU students. In recognition of their distinguished service, we hereby present you with the Friends of ICU Award. Congratulations.

Previous Laureates of Friends of ICU Awards are listed in the Giving to ICU website.