The College Women's Association of Japan is already preparing for its 50th anniversary print show in October. Proceeds from this show each year are allocated to CWAJ's scholarship and education fund. Most beneficiaries are female graduates of different nationalities planning advanced studies in Japan or overseas. Some beneficiaries are men and women with visual impairment.
Takashi Kikuchi falls into this latter category. In 1999 he received a two-year CWAJ scholarship for the visually challenged to study abroad. He is now a research associate at the Royal College of Music in London. He is also a concert violist. He cannot speak too highly of CWAJ. "All the members are well educated and experienced. They come from many different countries, and have a wide range of background, language and occupation. They have humor. They have supported me linguistically, musically and financially for about 20 years," he said.
In turn, members of CWAJ cannot speak too highly of him. They acclaim his superior qualities of thoughtfulness, intelligence and articulation. He has a sharp memory, and admirable aspirations. With his guide dog, he is an international traveler, confident and able.