The History of the Waupaca International Cultural Exchange Committee
Over 30 years of Friendship with Japan
We invite you to learn about the history of WICEC from the beginnings of an idea in 1994 to the most recent news of the club today.
Our Beginnings
In 1992, Nio Town drew-up guidelines to begin a program which would enable its citizens to take part
in international exchange. 0ur hopes were to help develop our education, culture, and industry through an exchange with other cultures.
"We feel that the hopes for the future rest in today's youth. This is why we chose to focus on promoting the idea of internationalization beginning with our junior high school students. They are more able to accept new ideas and are more open to establishing ties with other peoples, especially those of their same generation. This is how we strive to acquire an international sense within our community." (From the Summary of Mr. Tsuj i' s, the Deputy Mayor. speech)
From August 1993 to July 1994
Ms. Jennifer Blum went from Waupaca to Japan to work as an assistant English teacher within Mitoyo County's Junior High SchooI District. During Jennifer's visits, she and Mr. Asano had a chance to discuss the possibility of conducting a homestay program with Jennifer's hometown, Waupaca. Nio Board of Education hoped to send a smaII group of Junior H.S. students to America in the near future.
From May 22th to May 25th 1994
Mr.Asano, Superintendent of Nio Board of Education, paid a visit to Waupaca in hopes of enacting the homestay program previously discussed.
From July 20th-July 23rd, 1994
Ms. Jennifer BIum and her parents - Mr. Bart BIum and Mrs. CoIIeen Blum visited Nio for the first time. They brought a symbolic message of friendship from Mayor Lewinski.