会長挨拶

Wishing for the Continued Development of the Trusted Kasumi-kai

As the year 2026 begins, we have already entered the season of graduations and new enrollments.

On March 14, the 2025 Commencement Ceremony of Tokyo International University was held, and many students embarked on their journeys into society. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all those who graduated from both the undergraduate and graduate programs. In the valedictory address delivered by the student representative, a firm determination was expressed to contribute to society as individuals embodying the University’s founding principle of “public-mindedness.” This was truly encouraging, and I sincerely wish all graduates continued success in their future endeavors.

Furthermore, on April 1, the Entrance Ceremony was held, welcoming those who are beginning a new chapter in their academic lives. We look forward to seeing each of you learn and embody the spirit of public-mindedness during your time at the University and achieve significant personal growth.

From the affiliated Japanese language school, seven students were admitted to the University this year. Among them, three outstanding students were awarded the Kasumi-kai Scholarship on February 16 in recognition of their academic excellence.

This year corresponds to the Fire Horse in the traditional zodiac cycle, which occurs once every 60 years. It symbolizes strong energy and is often regarded as a time of opportunity to overcome stagnation and bring about positive change. With careful, rational, and practical consideration of what should be done, for whom, and for what purpose, we will continue to address the challenges before us.

In the annual New Year tradition, the Hakone Ekiden, our alma mater successfully completed the relay race. We commend their admirable performance and look forward to their advancement through the upcoming qualifiers and to even greater achievements in the 2027 competition. In addition, our strengthened athletic clubs have demonstrated excellent results, and Kasumi-kai will continue to enhance its organizational support system.

At the end of January this year, we held the Kasumi-kai New Year Reception, marking the 51st year since its establishment. We are deeply grateful to the many members who attended, as well as to the University officials for their presence and to all members of the organizing committee for their dedicated efforts.

This year’s Kasumi Awards were presented to Mr. Takuo Matsuzaka, recipient of the Yellow Ribbon Medal in the field of economics, and to Mr. Masanori Miyamoto, who achieved second place at the World Weightlifting Championships in the field of sports. In addition, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Kasumi-kai, awards were also presented to the following individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the development of the alumni association:

Mr. Nagahiko Otani, the first President;
Mr. Shintaro Kimino, the first President following incorporation as a general incorporated association;
Mr. Isshin Yamada, for his contributions to the development of our alma mater; and
Mr. Yoshikuni Saito, for his dedicated support of athletic programs.

We express our deepest respect and gratitude to all of them.

This year is also an election year for delegates and board members. While 106 delegates have already been confirmed, we recognize the declining number as an issue that must be addressed. We ask all those who intend to stand as candidates for delegate or board member to fully recognize their responsibilities and to devote themselves to the development of Kasumi-kai in the spirit of compliance with laws and regulations and sincerity and integrity.

Kasumi-kai exists to promote mutual friendship among its members and to contribute to the development of our alma mater. Grounded in a relationship of trust with the University, it must remain an organization that is reliably passed on to future generations.

The Secretariat is currently reviewing existing challenges and working to strengthen the organizational foundation and improve member services. Specifically, we are undertaking initiatives such as renewing our customer management system, updating our website, enhancing our network infrastructure, and establishing a support framework for athletic clubs. In addition, we are committed to the development of human resources.

Moving forward, we will continue to realistically and rationally examine the necessary projects and activities for the further advancement of Kasumi-kai and take on new challenges. We sincerely ask for the understanding and continued support of all our members.

役員紹介