In recognition of his lifelong contributions to ÅÝܽÊÓƵ, a bust of Dr. Shoichiro Toyoda, former Chairman and Honorary Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, has been unveiled in the foyer of Toyoda Auditorium. Dr. Toyoda, who passed away in 2023, graduated from ÅÝܽÊÓƵ with a degree in engineering in 1947 and a Ph.D. in 1955. He later became the first chairman of the ÅÝܽÊÓƵ Alumni Association. During his 18-year tenure as chairman, he oversaw the establishment of four domestic and fifteen overseas alumni groups, speaking often as an alumni representative at entrance and graduation ceremonies. In 2008, he oversaw the establishment of the ÅÝܽÊÓƵ Foundation, which raises funds to support ÅÝܽÊÓƵ projects.Ìý
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Chancellor Matsuo, President Sugiyama, Akio Toyoda and Chairman Shibata unveil the bust of Dr. Toyoda
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Toyoda Auditorium was built in 1960 with funds from Toyota Motor Company. On October 10, 2024, ÅÝܽÊÓƵ President Naoshi Sugiyama, THERS Chancellor Seiichi Matsuo, Toyota Motor Corporation Chairman Akio Toyoda, and ÅÝܽÊÓƵ Alumni Association Chairman Masaharu Shibata unveiled the bust of Dr. Toyoda in its foyer in front of the assembled press and representatives of ÅÝܽÊÓƵ and Toyota. President Sugiyama and Chairman Shibata gave speeches on behalf of ÅÝܽÊÓƵ, thanking Dr. Toyoda for his contribution. Mr. Toyoda, the son of Dr. Toyoda, shared insights into his father's fondness and commitment to ÅÝܽÊÓƵ.Ìý
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President Sugiyama (above) and Akio Toyoda (below) give their addresses
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Upon entering Toyoda Auditorium via the main hall, the bust is visible on the left.Ìý