ANGOLA, Ind.—Tri-State University will host a delegation of thirty dignitaries from Tochigi, Japan on their way to the 2006 Midwest U.S.-Japan Association Conference in Indianapolis, Ind. Led by the Governor of Tochigi, Honorable Tomikazu Fukuda, the delegation will include other leaders of Indiana’s Japanese sister state, such as the Director of Commerce, Industry, Labor and Tourism, International Affairs, and Chairman of the Federation of the Tochigi Prefectural Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Leaders from major industries and members of the Tochigi Prefectural Assembly will also be present.     

The purpose of the Japanese visit is to establish a mutual educational exchange program between Tri-State University and Tochigi Prefecture education institutions. Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., president of TSU, will be announcing a special scholarship for the students of Tochigi Prefecture that will provide students the opportunity to live, work, and study on the Tri-State University campus.

“We consider the visit from Governor Tomikazu Fukuda and his delegation a great honor,” said Brooks. “Our hope is to continue strengthening the tie between our two countries in order to afford opportunities to both our students and students from Tochigi Prefecture. This cultural exchange continues to enrich the lives of all parties involved.”

The visit is the result of a trip to Tochigi last November by Michael R. Bock, Vice President of Student and University Affairs; Gary Nielander, Executive Director of Steuben County Economic Development Corporation; and June Julien, Director of Steuben County Tourism. While in Japan, the group traveled 2,500 miles in ten days visiting industrial prospects, chambers of commerce, and educational facilities, marketing the resources and quality of life found in Steuben County.

Governor Fukuda and his delegation will be greeted by TSU students at 4:45 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8 near the Trine Welcome Center. The event will include various presentations from TSU faculty, followed by a tour, reception, and dinner.