Empowering the next generation of Japanese women leaders through education in the US
In 1871, at the age of 11, Sutematsu was sent to the U.S. as a member of the government mission. In 1882, she graduated from Vassar College as a valedictorian. She was the first Japanese woman to graduate from a college in the U.S. as well as in Japan. Upon returning to Japan, Sutematsu contributed to promote the educational and social status of the Japanese women.
Even after 100 years, women in Japan still face various obstacles in a social environment. We hope that Sutematsu scholars will embody the spirit of Sutematsu and demonstrate what she learned in the U.S. to empower more women to make a sustainable impact in the society.
Thanks to the leadership of Akiko Kuno (trustee, vice president of US Japan society, and a great granddaughter of Sutematsu), other founding members, and many supporters, we were able to raise 35 million yen, enough to fund the tuition for 4 years in a college in the U.S. The first Sutematsu scholar was selected. She has been admitted at Wellesley College.
Second year fund-raising status: 31 million yen, 87% toward the target of 36 million as of 4/5/24.
To help develop female leaders who will work to improve the social status of women;
To support Japanese women to study abroad to fully develop their individual abilities regardless of field and to grow as leaders who will contribute to the building of a prosperous and peaceful society;
To ensure that the spirit of Sutematsu is continued by future generations; and
To send and support at least one scholar each year on a continual basis to a traditional liberal arts women's college or university in the eastern United States. At least 36 million yen per scholar is needed to support study at these institutions in terms of tuition and fees for four years.
Destination The Sutematsu Scholars will have the opportunity to study for four years at one of the following six small, historic, residential, liberal arts college for women in the eastern United States known for fostering women leaders.
Vassar College (coeducational since 1969)
Barnard College
Bryn Mawr College
Mount Holyoke College
Smith College
Wellesley College
Scholarship
The scholarship will be awarded to one female Japanese high school graduate who will attend one of the above-mentioned colleges for four years ($65,000 per year).
Sutematsu Scholars will be entitled to all the privileges and benefits extended to Grew Bancroft Scholars, including preparatory support for college application, guidance during study abroad, and consultation on post-study career path.
Eligibility
Applicants must have Japanese citizenship and have graduated from a Japanese high school or have completed at least eight years of formal education in Japan.
The family income of the applicant must be no more more than 20 million yen.
The applicant must have self-recognition as a woman.