UWF receives Japanese Foreign Minister Award
University of West Florida (UWF) President Judith Bense recently received the Japanese Foreign Minister Award on behalf of the institution. The award symbolizes the close relationship between UWF and Japan and recognizes the contribution of cultural exchanges and goodwill between the two countries.
Upon receiving the news, Bense said that she was deeply grateful for the award and proud of the strong ties between UWF and Japan.
“Cultural exchanges and relationships pave the way to preparing our students,” said Bense. “They provide a broader understanding of a culture different than our own, enriching their lives. These partnerships are symbolic of two nations that are closely linked through respect and friendship.”
UWF’s long-standing ties with Japan began in the late 1980’s. The Japan House was established in 2004. UWF’s Japan Center accommodates the Japan-America Society of Northwest Florida, Florida-Japan Linkage Institute and the Jikei-American Center. On March 30, 2012, UWF celebrated the 100th anniversary of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, commemorating the gift of cherry trees given by Japan to the U.S. UWF was selected as the official site of the festival for the state of Florida.
The award was presented at the Florida-Japan Summit Reception on Thursday, June 14 in the Japan House on the UWF Pensacola campus.
