Mie University Activity and 2007 Volunteer of the Year
Today we held an activity at Mie University. The numbers have
increased here since last month, and there are now 25 children
actively participating. Newcomers joined the regulars in their
creative projects, and the environment warmed gradually as everyone's
shyness faded.One great thing about the activities at Mie is that ALTs (Assistant Language Teachers) from the city of Tsu participate as facilitators. Indeed, intercultural communication is possible right here in Mie! So far, six ALTs have participated as facilitators and provided support for our children.
Today was also the last day for one of these facilitators, an ALT named Oriana Gatta. She is returning to the United States after two years in Japan, but has not missed a single day of activities since we began Pangaea in Mie. She has always used her exceptionally gentle demeanor and smile to bridge linguistic and cultural differences, showing kindness and compassion not only to students, but to the entire staff.
Oriana participated in more activities than any other Pangaea
facilitator last year. She has been awarded the 2007 Facilitator of
the Year Award for her efforts.
During the closing of today's activity, Oriana received the 2007 Volunteer of the Year certificate and a parting gift. The children also presented her with a collection of thank you notes. The gratitude she expressed for these gifts was truly heartwarming. She told us, "participating in Pangaea was very enjoyable, and I have learned so much from all of you." We at Pangaea feel the same way.
Thank you very much, Oriana!
I am pleased that Pangaea can continue to bridge connections among not only students, but our staff as well.
Takekazu "Hana-pooh" Hanada
Chief Administrative Officer
During the closing of today's activity, Oriana received the 2007 Volunteer of the Year certificate and a parting gift. The children also presented her with a collection of thank you notes. The gratitude she expressed for these gifts was truly heartwarming. She told us, "participating in Pangaea was very enjoyable, and I have learned so much from all of you." We at Pangaea feel the same way.
Thank you very much, Oriana!
I am pleased that Pangaea can continue to bridge connections among not only students, but our staff as well.
Takekazu "Hana-pooh" Hanada
Chief Administrative Officer
Posted by: kumakinoko | 1. Activity Report
