It is with great honor and pleasure to announce that I, Masako Fujita have been appointed as chairman of Sato International Scholarship Foundation, marking a new beginning for the organization.   Since my father, Yo Sato established the foundation 13 years ago, I have served as a member of the board for 13 years and have worked in unison with the many exchange students.  If the past 13 years can be described as the foundation’s first stage of “growth”, the next can be defined as the second stage of “enrichment”. Being at your side at all times--during times of joy, sorrow and worry, is one of our major responsibilities as a scholarship foundation and we find fulfillment in sharing these moments with you.  Of course, it goes without saying that there are far more joyous times!  Unfortunately however, over the past year, we have been confronted with a radical change in the economic and social environment.  As students from overseas, you are faced with a tremendous change.  Nevertheless, it is at such times that you should especially hold steadily on to your dreams of studying overseas and envision your future with passion.  This will enable you to focus even more and it is our sincere and earnest hope that you realize your dreams as soon as possible so that you may embark on a new chapter in your life.  It is the mission of Sato Foundation to not only support with funding but with our sincere hearts and with our mutual understanding, we hope to create an even better environment for you to pursue your studies.  Supporting you dynamically and academically is our motto. 

April 1,2009     Masako Fujita