The Leidecker Center for Asian Studies is excited to invite you to four enriching events over the next two weeks:
TALK BY DAVID JONES: LESSONS OF RECONCILIATION IN THE U.S.-JAPAN CONTEXT
Thursday, March 27 | 5–6:30 p.m.
Reception: Zen Garden, 5 p.m. (rain location: James Farmer Hall Rotunda), Lecture: James Farmer Hall 204, 5:30 p.m.
Registration link.
The year 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and offers an ideal time to reflect on how the U.S.-Japan relationship has transformed from enemies to close allies and friends. UMW’s Leidecker Center for Asian Studies will host a reception and guest lecture by David Janes ’94, Ph.D. Dr. Janes is vice president, North America, at the International House of Japan and also executive director of the American Friends of the International House of Japan.
Dr. Janes will present “Lessons of Reconciliation in the U.S.-Japan Context: Sadako Sasaki, John D. Rockefeller III, and Shigeaki Mori.” In sharing the stories of these three people, he will examine the role they played in building reconciliation between Japan and the U.S. A reception with light refreshments will be held (weather-permitting) in the Zen Garden next to James Farmer Hall at 5 p.m., with the lecture beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Room 204. This event is free to attend. Registration is requested, as spaces are limited.
EDUCATIONAL TRIP: SWAMINARAYAN AKSHARDHAM, ROBBINSVILLE, NJ
Saturday, March 29 | Day Trip
Explore the largest Hindu temple in the U.S.—a masterpiece of art, culture, and spirituality. We especially invite you to join us for the one-day educational trip to Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, NJ. Currently, 32 students have registered, leaving 20 extra seats available! We invite you (with your partner) to join us on this refreshing and enriching trip. Please e-mail Dr. Kalpesh Bhatt (kbhatt@umw.edu) if you would like to join.
Explore the Grandeur of Swaminarayan Akshardham—the largest Hindu temple in the USA! Join on a wonderful journey to BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, NJ—a modern marvel of spiritual, cultural, and artistic excellence. This breathtaking architectural marvel, built by 12,500 dedicated volunteers from the USA and hundreds of stone artisans from India, embodies centuries of Hindu art, culture, and spiritual heritage. Akshardham includes design elements from ancient
Indian culture including 10,000 statues and statuettes, carvings of ancient Indian musical instruments and dance forms. Experience intricate carvings, majestic stonework, and timeless traditions brought to life in this monumental tribute to peace, unity, love, and devotion. Do not miss this unique opportunity to witness a fusion of history, craftsmanship, and cultural splendor!
DRUMS OF THE DEVINE: TAIKO AND TRADITION
Thursday, April 3 | 7:30 PM | Heslep Amphitheatre (Rain location: Seacobeck 145)
A powerful performance by Nen Daiko celebrating Japanese Taiko drumming. Japanese Taiko Drumming – A Must-See!
On April 3, Thursday, experience the thunderous energy and religious rhythm of Japanese Taiko drumming with Nen Daiko. Please share this opportunity with your students—it’s a perfect blend of musical performance and tradition. Flyer attached.
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