Spotlights
Dr. Naoki Kanaboshi receives University's Internationalization Award
Dr. Naoki Kanaboshi, associate professor of criminal justice, has received the University’s Internationalization Award in recognition of his significant service, teaching, program development, international projects, and other contributions to the internationalization of the University and campus community. This well-deserved recognition has come after a disappointing year during which the coronavirus pandemic forced the cancellation of his study abroad program to Japan.
Starting in 2014, Dr. Kanaboshi had facilitated "Comparative Social Organization and Control: Japan and U.S." where students explore factors contributing to Japan’s lower rate of crime by studying culture and conducting visits to schools, courts, police facilities, and historic sites. David Bageris, a criminal justice student who participated in the 2018 study abroad program, says:
"Professor Kanaboshi chose to go the extra mile to make my study abroad something I will never forget. From the small island excursion in Lake Biwa to exploring Tokyo, he helped us through it all. Professor Kanaboshi never once complained about translating for us, or about the endless walking he endured so we could see everything Japan had to offer."
Although all study abroad programs have been postponed, Dr. Kanaboshi was able to continue with his internationalization effort within GVSU, particularly as co-chair of the of International Faculty & Friends (IFF). He encourages all faculty and staff to get out of their comfort zones and seek out exchanges with people of unfamiliar cultures and diverse values. Based on his own experience, Dr. Kanaboshi explains that “many [international faculty and staff] may face unique challenges, including language and cultural barriers, as well as social isolation created due to our background and a lack of family or friends nearby.” Dr. Felix Ngassa, chair of the University Academic Senate, endorsed Dr. Kanaboshi’s nomination for the Internationalization Award:
"He is a great colleague and someone who embodies the essence of what it means to be a servant-leader. His love for Grand Valley's mission of Internationalization is obvious to all that have engaged with him on PIC [Padnos International Center] initiatives or International Faculty and Friends (IFF), and is evident in the time and effort he puts into these endeavors."
Interest Area(s)
Criminal Justice
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