Reminder: A Special Evening with Visiting Faculty – April 17

You are invited to a special evening with visiting faculty and administration Lawerence Larson (Dean, School of Engineering), Matthew Gutmann P’14 (Vice President for International Affairs), and Geoffrey Kirkman ’91 (Regional Director for International Advancement). The event will take place in the intimate atmosphere of the home of Meg McCreery ‘87. Please join us to welcome them to Japan and to get an update on Brown’s International Affairs as well as some of the exciting plans at Brown’s School of Engineering.

Dinner will be served
Date: April 17, 2012
Time: 7-9pm
Location: 4-12-8 Shirogane, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Cost: Free (donations welcome to contribute towards the dinner)
RSVP: Event@bucj.org Maps will be sent to those that RSVP.

Here’s a bit on the speakers. (Click on the links above for more information.)

Larry Larson was named inaugural dean for School of Engineering in March 2011. Prior to coming to Brown, Larson was chair of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department in the Jacobs School of Engineering at the University of California–San Diego. Larson has stated that “Engineering in the 21st century is undergoing a fundamental transformation, as the barriers between traditional disciplines disappear and engineers work to solve the complex global challenges in energy, the environment, health care, information technology, and economic development.” “Engineering at Brown is uniquely positioned to lead this evolution on a national and global scale, thanks to its tradition of world-leading research, broad intellectual and social engagement, and entrepreneurial leadership.”

Matthew Gutmann was named VP for International Affairs in August 2009. He is also a Professor of Anthropology and has been described as an insightful observer and interpreter of social, political and cultural change. In Gutman’s words “The world may appear to be a smaller, closer place now, but that apparent closeness has not eliminated global challenges. Brown University, with its particular strengths at collaboration across boundaries of all kinds, can find new, productive ways to address these challenges while enriching the academic experience of faculty and students alike. I am eager to help expand and enrich programs through which the University community engages with the people and nations of the world.”

Geoffrey Kirkman joined the International Advancement team as regional director in September 2011. He works primarily with alumni/ae, parents, and friends in Canada, Japan, Korea, Latin America, and Portugal. Prior to joining International Advancement, Kirkman was deputy director of the Watson Institute for International Studies for eight years. He earned a master’s degree in public policy from the Kennedy School at Harvard University and has extensive international experience, including several years at the World Bank in Latin America. Kirkman has also taught in Brown’s C.V. Starr Program in Commerce, Organizations, and Entrepreneurship (COE) and advised students for many years.

Chozenkai Zen Meditation at Engakuji in Kamakura, Sunday, April 1 (ongoing series)

The Chozenkai series organized by the Harvard and Brown Clubs is a great opportunity to experience the Zen meditation experience at one of Japan’s most storied Zen temples.

The afternoon begins with an explanation of sitting technique, followed by three meditation sessions of approximately ten minutes each. The meditation will be followed by a Q&A conducted in English and Japanese with interpretation. Participants are welcome to tour Engakuji before and after the session.

Date & Time: Sunday, April 1, 12:30 at Engakuji Kojirin (Meet at 12:30 at Kita-Kamakura station to walk there).
The sessions will end by 15:00 and participants who leave then should make it back to Tokyo station by about 16:30.
Admission: 1500 Yen

Please RSVP to jonathan@jonathanharlow.com

PLACE: [MAP]
ADMISSION: 1,500 yen
REGISTRATION: Please register by e-mail to address below.
e-mail: jonathan@jonathanharlow.com

Brown University Club Hanami Party – April 7, 2012 – Open to all Ivy(+) Alumni

Greetings from the Brown University Club of Japan,

Although it’s been a cold and rainy March so far, before we know it the sun will peak out and great billowing clowds of pink and white cherry blossoms will herald the start of Spring. Which means it’s once again time to invite you, your family, and friends to the BUCJ 5th annual Hanami Party. It’s a great time to get out into the fresh air, reconnect with friends, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company. We get a great turnout every year so this one event you do not want to miss.

About the Location (same as last year):

Komaba Koen is the site of the former Toshinari Maeda mansion, built in 1929. The lawn in front of this gorgeous Tudor style mansion is surrounded by about 150 cherry trees. During hanami, you can expect a smaller, less raucous crowd than the more famous hanami spots around town.

Komaba Koen is an 8 minute walk from Komaba Todai Mae Station on the Inokashira line (3 min. from Shibuya).

Place: Komaba Koen, Meguro-ku, Tokyo. See here for detailed directions.
Date: Saturday, April 7, 2012
Time: 11:00-15:00

Cost: Free. BYOB (bring your own bento!, and one of those plastic sheets to sit on would also be helpful)

RSVP’s would be appreciated, but are not necessary. Participation is unlimited.

Contact: Kevin Sholes & Taro Ikai
Email: hanami@bucj.org

Day of event contact:
Kevin Sholes
Tel: 090-6305-0952
or, Taro Ikai
Tel: 090-5332-5337

This event will be canceled in the case of rain.

Sincerely,

Kevin Sholes
Brown University Club of Japan