UNM will be honored in an acknowledgement ceremony today by a former student for the kindness he was shown and the education he received.
Yutaka Miyagi, an Okinawan student, attended UNM from 1950-51 and studied economics while enrolled in the business college.
His attendance at UNM was part of an educational program established by the Institute of International Education and sponsored by the United States Army Garrison Command in Okinawa.
The program was initiated during the post-World War II U.S. occupation of Japan and continued through 1972 when Okinawa reverted back to a prefecture of Japan.
As part of the ceremony, which will observe Okinawan custom, Miyagi will present two Shi Shi dogs as a token of appreciation and in acknowledgement of his association with the University. Vice President for Advancement Judy Jones will accept the gift on behalf of UNM.
"We appreciate the fact that he has such fond memories of the time he spent at UNM," Jones said. "We are honored that he has chosen to visit the University."
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Shi Shi dogs are mythical statues originally used as guardians to the entrances of buildings, preventing evil spirits from entering. Today, they are seen as symbols of good luck and fortune.
Jones said she is always pleased to see individuals who have graduated from UNM go on to see success in their lives.
"We are pleased that he has regarded his education at UNM so highly," Jones said.
Miyagi will be stopping at UNM as part of an eight-city tour to acknowledge various universities that have had an impact on his life, including institutions in Vancouver, Canada and Honolulu, Hawaii.
During the International Education Program's 20 years, more than 1,000 Okinawans traveled the United States to attend state colleges and universities.
Miyagi was one of the participants in the program who wanted to prepare themselves as civic leaders and directors and managers of companies. The concept of the program was that after receiving an education within the United States, students would return to Okinawa and help rebuild their country's war-torn economy.
Prior to his retirement, Miyagi was the executive vice president of the Okinawa Economic Association.
The ceremony will be at 2 p.m., in the Bobo Room in Hodgin Hall. It will be open to the public.
