Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions, which proudly sponsored the 20th Annual Japan Center Essay Competition Awards ceremony on Sunday, May 4, at Stony Brook University. The partnership continued to highlight Canon’s commitment to empowering students and supporting education, as 221 high school and college students submitted essays for the competition.

Organized by the Japan Center at Stony Brook, the contest honored students for work that demonstrates their awareness and understanding of the Japanese culture. The competition aims to inspire the students to think creatively and critically about their lives in relating experiences to aspects of Japanese culture and also to broaden their horizons and promote global citizenship through the writing of thought-provoking essays.

"We are proud to partner with Canon U.S.A. on the essay competition, providing students with the opportunity to deepen their understanding of diverse cultural perspectives by thoughtfully exploring any aspect of Japan," said Dr. Iwao Ojima, the President of Japan Center at Stony Brook University. “We congratulate the winners and every participant for their great work."

For their entries, the contestants were asked to discuss one or more aspects of Japan, including art, culture, tradition, values, philosophy, history, society, politics, business, and technology in relation to their personal experiences, views, and future goals.

A panel of qualified judges selected the winners, who received awards including a Canon product. Isao “Sammy” Kobayashi, president and CEO of Canon U.S.A., Inc., was an honorary judge of the competition.

Kiyoshi Oka, executive vice president and general manager, Marketing Strategy Unit, Canon U.S.A., Inc., was in attendance for the ceremony.

“It is a privilege to continue to partner with this great program and help support the Japan Center and all the great work they do in helping to foster better understanding of Japanese culture,” Oka said. “All the students did a commendable job in writing so eloquently about their experience, and we congratulate the winners on their tremendous accomplishments.”