About the Takadas

Karen Michael Takada, a retired media executive, returned to college in 2009 and completed a Bachelor of Science degree at Kennesaw State University in 2015. “Kennesaw State’s efforts to foster and nurture world citizens with their many global initiatives attracted me to KSU and kept me there!" Mrs. Takada completed three study abroad programs while attending Kennesaw State. Karen volunteers with Path-To-Shine a volunteer non-profit group that mentors children in Marietta, Georgia.

Before transferring to Atlanta over thirty years ago from his native Japan, Hideo Takada began his career as a Certified Public Accountant with an international firm in Tokyo. Hideo transferred to Atlanta in 1985 and began a specialized practice that catered to Japanese owned businesses. Mr. Takada began his own accounting firm in 2015. Hideo is a senior board member of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia and treasurer of Path-To-Shine.

Apply for Takada Scholarship

The application for the Takada Scholarship for International Education is now closed.

Hideo and Karen Takada

Scholarship Recipient Eligibility

  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
  • Must be a full-time undergraduate student
  • Participating in a summer education abroad program outside of Western Europe
  • Must be able to demonstrate financial need for the scholarship

Eligible Programs

The following programs are eligible for the Takada Scholarship:

Donor Intent & Vision Statement

The Takadas established this scholarship to give students in need of financial support, and who have not previously studied abroad, the opportunity to participate in an education abroad program outside of Western Europe. They hope to provide deserving KSU students with the opportunity to experience the same transformative cross-cultural immersion that has enriched their own personal, professional and intellectual lives.

“We have been fortunate to travel to many continents and meet many people all over the world. Travel brings joy and understanding to Hideo and me. We are excited to be a part of the Study Abroad programs at KSU and look forward to assisting students for years to come”

- Hideo & Karen Takada