First-year Undergraduates to Receive Free Tohoku University-branded Face Covering

As part of the student support project “Stand By You” promoted by the Tohoku University Alumni Association and the Tohoku University Fund, first-year undergraduate students who enrolled on 2020 will receive a care package containing a letter book and a university-branded face covering.

The book is a collection of encouraging letters and messages which the university received from alumni members earlier this year, at a time when all four campuses were temporarily shut down to protect students, faculty and staff from the coronavirus.

Strict COVID-19 prevention measures in the spring and summer had required all students to stay home, refrain from social activities and take classes online. And according to feedback received by the university, first-year undergraduates were among the most adversely affected by the isolation.

With the recent easing of restrictions, students have gradually been able to attend classes on campus, and take part in some extra-curricular activities.

To further encourage safe interaction, the university has produced a limited edition face covering in collaboration with Japanese sporting brand Mizuno. The face covering is made of the same fabric that Mizuno uses for swimsuits and athletic wear. It is stretchable, soft to the touch and has “Tohoku University” printed on the side.

The care packages will be sent out to all first-year undergraduates in late December.

December is Alma Mater Support Month
While the university-branded face coverings are not for sale, alumni members can get one by participating early in the Alma Mater Support Month this December.

The fund raising campaign, hosted by the Tohoku University Alumni Association, calls on graduates to help support university activities for current students. The first 100 alumni to donate 10,000 yen or more, will receive a Tohoku University face covering.