Dr. Robert J. Birgeneau
Chancellor, University of California
at Berkeley

Since September 2004, when I became UC Berkeley’s ninth chancellor, I have learned much about our distinguished and unique institution. While all of us in the field of higher education have always known Berkeley's high reputation for teaching, research, and public service, it is nonetheless true that Cal's all-around excellence, pioneering spirit, and lofty aspirations can be fully appreciated only with firsthand experience.

I am especially pleased to lead a university that is both world-renowned for excellence and truly international-enjoying longstanding collaborations, partnerships, and friendships with individuals and organizations around the globe. Such relationships have been key to keeping Cal the most distinguished public teaching and research university in the world. We have also thereby made many contributions to global understanding and cooperation.

The University takes great pride in our thriving alumni community in Japan - the largest alumni community outside the United States. We are particularly grateful for the loyalty and commitment to Cal shown by members of the Japan Alumni Association. Founded over a half century ago, the Japan Alumni Association is one of the oldest, largest, and most active of all of our international alumni clubs.

I hope to have the opportunity to meet many of you in person in the coming years. In the meantime, I invite you to stay involved with Berkeley by:

• participating actively in the many engaging social, networking, and educational activities organized by the Japan Alumni Association;

• keeping abreast of international news and events by visiting our Web site at international.berkeley.edu; and

• joining our online alumni community at cal.berkeley.edu.

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 Updated Sept. 23, 2009. UCB Japan Homepage Committee. Page design: M. Andrade (Edu '90).