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Pictured left to right: JIU Dean Maria Ichiyama, Board of Governors Vice Chair Lindsay Kearns, AV��Ʒ President Dr. Lane Trotter, JIU President Dr. Kenji Sugibayashi, and Hiromi Sugibayashi.

The Board of Governors Award for Innovative College Partnerships recognizes an individual or group in the external community who has demonstrated strong partnership values and who has an affiliation with the college. The award was presented at a special ceremony that took place on March 6 on the college’s Lansdowne campus.

“AV��Ʒ and Josai International University have a rich history,” says Tanya Clarmont, Chair of the Board of Governors. “For over 30 years, Camosun has received many students from Josai on exchange and Camosun has sent many in return. These exchanges have enriched our institution, creating a strong, lasting bond between us.”

"At a time when the world must overcome many challenges, we need to reach out and connect with global partners to solve problems that impact us all."

-Kenji Sugibayashi

The relationship between the two institutions started in 1990. Over the last two decades, over 300 students from Josai International University (JIU) have participated in long- and short-term programs at AV��Ʒ. Many of those students have maintained a relationship with Camosun, Victoria and British Columbia. Equally, over 20 Camosun students have benefited from the opportunity to study at JIU and have gone on to use that experience to enhance their personal and professional lives. This reciprocal exchange of knowledge and cultural understanding has been pivotal in nurturing the robust relationship between the two post-secondary institutions.

The bond between the two institutions was further strengthened as Camosun welcomed JIU alumna Ayako Moriya, formerly Princess Ayako of Takamado, for two years from 2013 to 2015.

“On behalf of Josai International University, it is an honour to receive the award,” says Kenji Sugibayashi, JIU President. “At a time when the world must overcome many challenges, we need to reach out and connect with global partners to solve problems that impact us all. We are proud of our partnership with AV��Ʒ.”