News and Stories | 51�Թ�

51�Թ�

News and Stories | Japanese

Leah Klaas '16, center right, assists with a high-level meeting with the City of Sapporo

For Leah Klaas ’16, Japan is a Career and Life Focus

A triple major in international studies, Japanese and anthropology at 51�Թ�, Klaas had always had a deep love for Japan. That passion has anchored her career and life choices in the years since she set forth from Pacific and Forest Grove.

The Class of '76 and Pacific's Early Connection to Japan

In 1876, 51�Թ� celebrated one of its early commencement ceremonies with a special distinction: Pacific became one of the first universities in the United States to welcome Japanese citizens to its alumni ranks.

'We All Treat Each Other Like Family'

Chika Matsumoto ’21 first started dancing because it’s what her friends were doing. But she never stopped. “It turned out to be a lifelong passion and hobby with me,” she said. “Dance has just been that one thing that stuck with me my entire life.”