Margaret Catt and Katie Sell, the Keiko Fukuda Judo Scholarship recipients of 2006, have written to express their thanks. Please enjoy their letters below. The scholarships were awarded in April 2006, at the Banquet celebrating Fukuda Sensei’s 93rd birthday and Kodokan 9th Dan.
Through the Banquet, and thanks to the generosity of many in the judo community, the Fukuda Scholarship Committee was able to reach its goal of doubling Fukuda Sensei’s original endowment to the Scholarship Fund, ensuring that the Fukuda Scholarship can be presented to two women judo players each spring.
The spring 2007 scholarships will be presented to kata players. Application information and forms are available for download.
Dear Fukuda Scholarship Committee,
Thank you very much for awarding me with the 2005-06 Fukuda Scholarship. It was truly an honor to meet Professor Keiko Fukuda at this year's Senior Nationals. I will always do my best to live up to the high standards your scholarship represents.
Sincerely,
Kathleen (Katie) Sell
August 7, 2006
Dear Mrs. Shepherd and the Keiko Fukuda Judo Scholarship Committee
I am writing to express my sincere gratitude to you for making the Keiko Fukuda Judo Scholarship possible. I was thrilled to learn of my selection for this honor and I am deeply appreciative of your support.
On July 28th, I completed my Master of Arts Degree, from Ball State University, in the area of Physical Education. The financial assistance you provided was very helpful in paying my educational expenses. But more importantly, as I stood next to Fukuda Sensei, to receive my award, I had a moment to reflect on the many achievements women have made and will continue to make in the years to come. I look forward to the contributions I might make as I pursue my teaching endeavors.
Thank you again for your generosity and support.
Sincerely,
Margaret Catt