Expansion into Japan

DKG Welcomes Kochi, Japan

October 14 was a historic day for The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International. While the international executive board voted in July to expand to Japan, the 60 Japanese educators did not become members of the Society until the impressive initiation ceremony that was held in Kochi, Japan on October 14, 2012.

My heart was thrilled when, as the installing officer, I watched sixty key women educators from Kochi, Japan become members of our great organization. They varied in age from 25 to 70+ , and in positions from classroom teacher, nursing instructor, administrator, and university professor to teacher of the fine art of Kimono dressing. Personally, I have never witnessed an initiation ceremony with 60 initiates from the same chapter, at any one time. Perhaps, this is even a first for the Society?

Only one of the original potential members was unable to be present for the ceremony. She is to be initiated soon, along with, Hiroko Minami, the chair of the Board of Directors and President of the University of Kochi and Kochi Junior College.

Dr. Fusa Nakagawa is the state organization's first president. With her enthusiasm, wisdom, dedication and graciousness, she will lead continued expansion in our 18th country. Fusa will be joined by the other eleven founders, as well as the additional 48 members in  extending to other distinguished educators in Kochi and other Prefectures, the gift of membership in our Society.

What an honor it was for me to be the international president and represent our Society. Corlea Plowman, Executive Director, and members from Hawaii, Washington, Arizona and California shared the joyful and historic occasion with me.

Arigatou (Thank you very much, in Japanese) for the ways in which many of you have welcomed Fusa and the other 59 members to our outstanding organization.

Yours in DKG.