This event marks the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, highlighting the extraordinary recovery of the Tohoku region. This recovery was possible through the dedication and continuing commitment of both local and global communities.

Despite facing immense challenges—including tsunami risk mitigation, recovery from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident, and ongoing population decline—Tohoku has continued to move forward. This event brings together inspiring individuals and organizations who remain deeply committed to the region’s revitalization. Through a panel discussion, speakers will share initiatives ranging from reimagining tourism and strengthening STEM education to advancing environmental monitoring and creating new business opportunities.

Join us for a meaningful conversation that highlights hard-won progress and explores practical lessons for building resilience and achieving long-term recovery from both natural and human-made disasters. 

Please RSVP here.

Agenda

5:00 – 6:30 PM: Panel Discussion

Moderator: Christine Pilcavage (MIT, MISTI)

• Eiichi Kato (Representative of Tourism Rias, storyteller and former CEO of Hotel BOYO, Kesen-numa): Rebuilding tourism industry and engaging after 3.11

• Miho Mazereeuw (MIT, DUSP): Building a framework to design/prepare for next disasters

• Marwa AlAlawi (MIT, MechE, PhD candidate):  Reimagining STEM education in rural regions

• Haruko Wainwright (MIT, NSE/CEE): Informing environmental recovery from a nuclear disaster through data science

• Sho Hayashi (Fukushima Bu): Creating new opportunities in Fukushima

6:30 – 7:15 PM: Light reception (with food from the Tohoku region) and further discussion