Lakeland University Japan named finalist for 2026 PIEoneer Award
Lakeland University - Japan (LUJ) was named a finalist in the Partnership of the Year category at the 2026 PIEoneer Awards, recognizing its work to support higher education revitalization following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The PIEoneer Awards, often called the “Oscars of international education,” recognize innovation and achievement across the global education sector. The 10th annual awards ceremony was held Sept. 4 at London’s historic Guildhall.
LUJ was recognized for its partnership with Archipelago Education Consultancy, a Japan- and Philippines-based organization, focused on post-pandemic higher education revitalization.
The nomination recognizes LUJ’s response to the significant challenges facing higher education institutions around the world following the pandemic. In working with Archipelago Education Consultancy, LUJ developed strategies to support the university’s post-pandemic growth while strengthening its position as an innovative American university in Tokyo.
The Partnership of the Year category recognizes collaborations that demonstrate bold ideas, meaningful impact and fresh approaches to challenges facing international education. The award’s judging panel includes leaders from across the international education community.
The finalist recognition highlights the work taking place at LUJ and Lakeland University’s continued commitment to innovation and global education.
“Being recognized among the finalists for a PIEoneer Award is a testament to the work being done by our team in Japan and the strength of our partnerships around the world,” said Lakeland University President Beth Borgen. “LUJ continues to demonstrate how an American university can adapt, innovate and create meaningful opportunities for students in a global setting.”
Since its founding in 1991, LUJ has helped define Lakeland University’s global identity, bringing the Lakeland experience to students in Tokyo and serving students from more than 50 countries while strengthening the university’s connections around the world.
