Japanese leader visits MU

By Campbell Massie

Published Dec. 4, 2007

Consul General of Japan Kenji Shinoda visited MU on Wednesday as a guest of Chancellor Brady Deaton and International Center Director James Scott to discuss the relationship between the university and schools in Japan.

Japan has an embassy in Washington, D.C., and has consulates in major cities as well. The consulate in Chicago is in charge of 10 states in its immediate area, including Missouri, Scott said.

Shinoda came to MU to promote more cooperation between MU and universities in Japan.

The consulate "came to see Chancellor Deaton and myself to see if there is an interest in collaborating," Scott said.

This student exchange promotes cultural understanding as well, he said.

MU is partnered with four universities in Japan that participate in exchange programs that give students study abroad options.

After the meeting Wednesday, Shinoda had to be taken to University Hospital.

"He did go to University Hospital to some tests," Scott said.

Scott declined to comment further.