(Posted November 8, 2023)

Kei Takahashi ’24, center, was honored by Diversity Abroad as a recipient of the 2023 Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion in International Education (EDIIE) in the Global Student Leadership Award category.    

Kei Takahashi ’24, center, was honored by Diversity Abroad as a recipient of the 2023 Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion in International Education (EDIIE) in the Global Student Leadership Award category.    

HUNTINGDON, Pa.—Diversity Abroad announces Juniata College student Kei Takahashi ’24 as a recipient of the 2023 Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion in International Education (EDIIE) in the Global Student Leadership Award category.    

“Each year, Diversity Abroad recognizes institutions, organizations, and individuals implementing strategies that tackle underlying inequities in global education and striving to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of global education. We congratulate the 2023 EDIIE Award recipients for their tireless efforts to advance access to and sense of belonging in global education for the students they serve,” said Lily Lopez-McGee, executive director of Diversity Abroad.   

Takahashi was one of 10 students worldwide selected to participate in the Nobel Dialogue Week, a high-impact scholarship program focused on preparing future world leaders. He has studied abroad in Sweden and The Gambia and serves as an International Education Assistant within the Center for International Education at Juniata College.    

“I left my home in Japan and started college in a small town in Pennsylvania. That’s my home now, but I wanted to challenge myself and left there for Sweden. When it was time to return, I didn’t want to leave that home,” Takahashi said. “So, I went to The Gambia. It was so different from everywhere else I’d been in my life, but again, I call it home now. Home is wherever I go. I believe international education makes it possible for us to build a home and hope for anyone and everyone.”   

He exemplifies Juniata College’s commitment to partnering with students as they magnify their interests and talents, learn to navigate the global community, and design lives of meaning and happiness.   

“Kei embodies all aspects of international education at Juniata College as both an international student and study abroad returner,” said Jamie Weaver, dean of international education. “He truly has found his home and passion on campus, serving as a student leader in the Center for International Education and co-president of the Study Abroad Club. We are thankful every day for Kei’s hard work and enthusiasm. He is bound to do great things in the future, and we are excited to be a part of his story.”  

Takahashi was recognized for his work during the annual Awards Gala and Dinner at Global Inclusion 2023, the 11th annual Diversity Abroad Conference.     

“Kei is a remarkable individual and asset to the Juniata College community, particularly through his work in the Center for International Education, commitment to diversity, academic excellence, study abroad, ISSS, and active campus engagement. His servant leadership has touched many lives and will leave a legacy,” said Kendall Brostuen, vice president of academic affairs, EF Study Abroad. “Kei is the true definition of a global citizen, serving as an ambassador between multicultural groups. He actively seeks new opportunities to help others around the world, and his passion and curiosity are contagious. We are so proud of him for his accomplishments. Kei will go far in any path he chooses.”   

About the EDIIE Awards:

Through the Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion in International Education Awards, Diversity Abroad celebrates outstanding institutions, organizations, individuals, and students who have developed inclusive practices that increase access, foster diversity and inclusion in international education, and promote an inclusive environment for international students on campus.    

About Diversity Abroad:    

Diversity Abroad is the leading membership organization that inspires and supports educators, policymakers, industry professionals, and other stakeholders in leveraging global educational programs to support the academic success, interpersonal development, and career readiness of students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds.  

Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.