COLLEGE PARK, MD (August 2004) — College of Education Professor Barbara Finkelstein was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Golden Rays with Rosette on June 25 at a ceremony at the Ambassador’s Residence in Washington, D.C.

Professor Finkelstein and Ambassador Kato

Japan’s Ambassador Ryozo Kato presented the prestigious award to Finkelstein in honor of her efforts to foster cultural exchange between Japan and the United States. The award, conferred by Japan's Emperor Heisei, recognizes Japanese and foreign nationals for their contributions to promoting knowledge of Japan culture throughout the world.

Finkelstein is a faculty member in the Department of Education Policy and Leadership and is Director of International Center for Transcultural Education's Mid-Atlantic Region Japan in the Schools (MARJiS) Program. She was recognized for her work with hundreds and educators over the past 20 years, contributing to mutual understanding between Japan and the United States in the classrooms of both nations.

"We congratulate Barbara Finkelstein on this prestigious recognition of her work," said Edna Mora Szymanski, Dean of the College of Education. "Her longstanding commitment to global education is a true reflection of her dedication to her profession."

The Order of the Rising (Kyuokujitsusho) was the first order established in Japan, and the custom of often awarding foreigners for their services to Japan began in 1981.The Order of the Rising Sun is awarded to foreigners who have made outstanding contributions to promote foreign relations with Japan. Finkelstein is among a handful of women to be honored with the award.

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or contact Deborah Hudson, Assistant Dean for External Relations, at:dmhudson@umd.edu.