Meiji University Awards "Special Distinguished Service Prize" to Ski Jumper Nozomi Maruyama and Figure Skater Shun Sato
Key facts
- Meiji University Awards "Special Distinguished Service Prize" to Ski Jumper Nozomi Maruyama and Figure Skater Shun Sato
- Meiji University presented the "Special Distinguished Service Prize" to ski jumper Nozomi Maruyama (graduated 2021, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) and figure skater Shun Sato (4th year, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) on June 11th. Both athletes won medals at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, and their achievements were recognized with this award.
- Source: PR Times
- Date: June 13, 2026
Direct answer
Meiji University presented the "Special Distinguished Service Prize" to ski jumper Nozomi Maruyama (graduated 2021, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) and figure skater Shun Sato (4th year, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) on June 11th. Both athletes won medals at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, and their achievements were recognized with this award.
- Citation
- Meiji University Awards "Special Distinguished Service Prize" to Ski Jumper Nozomi Maruyama and Figure Skater Shun Sato (June 13, 2026), PR Times
- Source
- PR Times
- Date
- June 13, 2026
Meiji University presented the "Special Distinguished Service Prize" to ski jumper Nozomi Maruyama (graduated 2021, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) and figure skater Shun Sato (4th year, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) on June 11th. Both athletes won medals at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, and their achievements were recognized with this award.
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- 📰 Published: June 13, 2026 at 01:00
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From left: President Masao Ueno, Athlete Shun Sato, Athlete Nozomi Maruyama, Chairman Takashi Yanagidani
Meiji University presented the "Special Distinguished Service Prize" to ski jumper Nozomi Maruyama (graduated 2021, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) and figure skater Shun Sato (4th year, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) on June 11th.
Both athletes won medals at the 25th Winter Olympic Games (Milano Cortina Winter Olympics) held in 2026. Their achievements were recognized with the presentation of the Special Distinguished Service Prize.
At the award ceremony held at Meiji University's Surugadai Campus, President Masao Ueno, who is also the Chairman of the Athletics Association, presented the athletes with certificates and commemorative medals. President Ueno praised their accomplishments, stating, "This would have been impossible without strong 'individuals.' Your performances brought great inspiration to the world. You are the pride of Meiji University." Chairman Yanagidani also congratulated them in his address, saying, "Your continuous 'moving forward' is the true Meiji spirit and a model for junior students."
About the Meiji University Special Distinguished Service Prize
The Meiji University Special Distinguished Service Prize is awarded to individuals and organizations, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni, who have achieved outstanding accomplishments in fields such as academics, culture, and sports, and are recognized to have contributed to the promotion and development of Meiji University's education and research. Past recipients include Yu Aku, Senichi Hoshino, Takeshi Kitano, and Wakaba Higuchi, who won a silver medal in the figure skating team event at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. Nozomi Maruyama and Shun Sato are the 38th and 39th recipients, respectively.
■ About the Meiji University Special Distinguished Service Prize (Meiji University Official Website)
https://www.meiji.ac.jp/koho/information/award.html
Nozomi Maruyama (Graduated 2021, Faculty of Political Science and Economics)
A graduate of Meiji University's Ski Club. At the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, she won bronze medals in both the women's normal hill individual and the mixed team large hill events in ski jumping. She also finished 8th in the women's large hill individual. She achieved multiple medal wins in her Olympic debut.
Comment from Nozomi Maruyama
My four years at Meiji University were an invaluable time that allowed me to grow both as an athlete and as a person. While I struggled with balancing academics and sports, the guidance from my seniors and the presence of friends who strived for their dreams together became a great driving force.
In Milan, I poured everything into each jump, fueled by the passionate cheers from everyone. Encouraged by this award, I will continue to forge ahead with pride as a Meiji University alumna and with the spirit of 'moving forward,' aiming to deliver dreams and courage.
Related Article: MeijiNOW Nozomi Maruyama Interview "Two Medals Won at Her Olympic Debut After Overcoming Injury"
https://meijinow.jp/senior/interview/133653
Shun Sato (4th year, Faculty of Political Science and Economics)
A graduate of Meiji University's Skating Club. He has achieved results such as 3rd place at the 2025 GP Final and 2nd place at the All Japan Championships. At the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, he won a silver medal in the figure skating team event and a bronze medal in the men's singles.
Comment from Shun Sato
When the skating club coach informed me of the award, I was surprised and extremely happy. I am deeply honored to receive this prestigious award from the traditional Meiji University.
As a Meiji University student, I will continue to strive for a balance between skating and university life while actively taking on new challenges. I will use this experience as strength and aim for the gold medal next time.
Related Article: MeijiNOW Shun Sato Interview "Two Medals Grabbed by Believing in Myself – Fueled by Teammates' Cheers"
https://meijinow.jp/senior/interview/131967
Meiji University presented the "Special Distinguished Service Prize" to ski jumper Nozomi Maruyama (graduated 2021, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) and figure skater Shun Sato (4th year, Faculty of Political Science and Economics) on June 11th.
Both athletes won medals at the 25th Winter Olympic Games (Milano Cortina Winter Olympics) held in 2026. Their achievements were recognized with the presentation of the Special Distinguished Service Prize.
At the award ceremony held at Meiji University's Surugadai Campus, President Masao Ueno, who is also the Chairman of the Athletics Association, presented the athletes with certificates and commemorative medals. President Ueno praised their accomplishments, stating, "This would have been impossible without strong 'individuals.' Your performances brought great inspiration to the world. You are the pride of Meiji University." Chairman Yanagidani also congratulated them in his address, saying, "Your continuous 'moving forward' is the true Meiji spirit and a model for junior students."
About the Meiji University Special Distinguished Service Prize
The Meiji University Special Distinguished Service Prize is awarded to individuals and organizations, including students, faculty, staff, and alumni, who have achieved outstanding accomplishments in fields such as academics, culture, and sports, and are recognized to have contributed to the promotion and development of Meiji University's education and research. Past recipients include Yu Aku, Senichi Hoshino, Takeshi Kitano, and Wakaba Higuchi, who won a silver medal in the figure skating team event at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. Nozomi Maruyama and Shun Sato are the 38th and 39th recipients, respectively.
■ About the Meiji University Special Distinguished Service Prize (Meiji University Official Website)
https://www.meiji.ac.jp/koho/information/award.html
Nozomi Maruyama (Graduated 2021, Faculty of Political Science and Economics)
A graduate of Meiji University's Ski Club. At the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, she won bronze medals in both the women's normal hill individual and the mixed team large hill events in ski jumping. She also finished 8th in the women's large hill individual. She achieved multiple medal wins in her Olympic debut.
Comment from Nozomi Maruyama
My four years at Meiji University were an invaluable time that allowed me to grow both as an athlete and as a person. While I struggled with balancing academics and sports, the guidance from my seniors and the presence of friends who strived for their dreams together became a great driving force.
In Milan, I poured everything into each jump, fueled by the passionate cheers from everyone. Encouraged by this award, I will continue to forge ahead with pride as a Meiji University alumna and with the spirit of 'moving forward,' aiming to deliver dreams and courage.
Related Article: MeijiNOW Nozomi Maruyama Interview "Two Medals Won at Her Olympic Debut After Overcoming Injury"
https://meijinow.jp/senior/interview/133653
Shun Sato (4th year, Faculty of Political Science and Economics)
A graduate of Meiji University's Skating Club. He has achieved results such as 3rd place at the 2025 GP Final and 2nd place at the All Japan Championships. At the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, he won a silver medal in the figure skating team event and a bronze medal in the men's singles.
Comment from Shun Sato
When the skating club coach informed me of the award, I was surprised and extremely happy. I am deeply honored to receive this prestigious award from the traditional Meiji University.
As a Meiji University student, I will continue to strive for a balance between skating and university life while actively taking on new challenges. I will use this experience as strength and aim for the gold medal next time.
Related Article: MeijiNOW Shun Sato Interview "Two Medals Grabbed by Believing in Myself – Fueled by Teammates' Cheers"
https://meijinow.jp/senior/interview/131967
FAQ
What is the "Meiji University Special Distinguished Service Prize" awarded to Nozomi Maruyama and Shun Sato?
It is an award presented to individuals or organizations who have achieved outstanding accomplishments in academics, culture, or sports, contributing to the university's development. Both athletes were recognized for winning medals at the Winter Olympics.
What specific achievements did Maruyama and Sato accomplish?
Maruyama won two bronze medals in ski jumping, and Sato won a silver and a bronze medal in figure skating.
What is the significance of this award for the university?
The university highly values student achievements in sports, aiming to enhance its brand image and boost student motivation.
Who are some notable past recipients of this award?
Past recipients include lyricist Yu Aku, former professional baseball manager Senichi Hoshino, film director Takeshi Kitano, and figure skater Wakaba Higuchi.
Does Meiji University focus on supporting sports?
Yes, the university supports numerous sports clubs through its Athletics Association, and this award is part of its efforts to encourage student athletes.