Houston Tomonkai

About the Houston Tomonkai

The Houston Tomonkai was established in September 2024. Since Houston is often called as “The energy capital of the world”, many alumni have worked in energy-related fields at companies and universities. We have not only been interacting with each other, but also have held several golf events with the Houston Mita-kai even before the Tomonkai launch. The Houston Tomonkai aims to widely connect alumni beyond those working in the field of energy. So we hope to expand our network through various events and get-togethers to deepen ties between members and contribute to the local community. We currently have approximately 40 members, and we strive to welcome new members and help new Houston residents integrate smoothly into the community. Join our activities to share wonderful experiences together.
Masatoshi Nishi（Graduated in 1990, School of Science and Engineering, Graduated with a Master’s degree in 1992, Graduate School of Science and Engineering）

The attractive points of Houston

Houston, located in southeastern Texas, is the fourth largest city in the US, following New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Known as the center of space exploration and research, the city is home to NASA’s famous Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. Space Center Houston is a major tourist attraction where you can tour astronaut training facilities and mission control. There are also many cultural facilities, such as art and natural science museums, that allow you to have unique experience of art and science. Additionally, Houston offers a diversity of gourmet food and is famous for its Texan barbecue, steak, and craft beer. The city also has many parks and green spaces where you can enjoy nature.

Houston is known as the center of the energy industry, with the headquarters of many large companies. This highly diverse city offers visitors many benefits. Throughout the year, numerous events are held, including the famous Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, which is held annually from the end of February to mid-March. It is a major local event, and you can enjoy rodeo competitions, concerts, and carnivals. Sports is also popular in Houston, which is home to professional teams, such as the MLB Houston Astros (baseball), NFL Houston Texans (American football), and NBA Houston Rockets (basketball). Their games attract local fans and tourists.
Masatoshi Nishi（Graduated in 1990, School of Science and Engineering, Graduated with a Master’s degree in 1992, Graduate School of Science and Engineering）

Message from the Chairperson

I would like to extend my greetings as the chairperson of the Houston Tomonkai, launched in September 2024. Although the Tomonkai is still new, Houston is the fourth largest city in the US, and there have been, and are, many alumni. I am sincerely grateful for your cooperation and support during the launch.

Our Tomonkai regularly holds events and gatherings to provide networking and information-sharing opportunities and promote further interaction and exchange between the alumni around Houston. Since its launch, we have been deepening our ties at various events, such as the summer party, the Waseda-Keio golf competition, and the New Year’s party. Through these activities, we strive to share the spirit of Waseda University and contribute to the local community. We will continue to offer opportunities for enjoyable interactions and expand our network in the Houston area. We sincerely look forward to your participation and support.
Masatoshi Nishi（Graduated in 1990, School of Science and Engineering, Graduated with a Master’s degree in 1992, Graduate School of Science and Engineering）

Messages from the Members

I am delighted at the establishment of the much-awaited Houston Tomonkai. Thanks to the Houston Tomonkai, I could interact with people from different industries and ages, and build good relationships both within and outside my profession. I will continue to actively participate in the events to ensure that the Tomonkai remains a friendly network and gathering place for everyone.
Yutaro Arita（Graduated in 2018, School of Law）

I am glad to have the opportunity to help preparing and establish the Houston Tomonkai. In Houston, there are still many alumni who have not joined the Tomonkai but are active in various fields. Many may be reluctant to flock together, which is quite Waseda-like, but I hope the Tomonkai will also involve such people and develop gradually and sustainably.
Kazuya Sasaki（Graduated in 1992, School of Science and Engineering）

Houston, the energy capital of the world, became a new home to the Tomonkai. In this scorching southern region, alumni with the Waseda spirit gather while enjoying great beer and delicious Texan barbecue. Although the occasional departure of members is sad, the Tomonkai always provides a magical sense of home. We aim for more liveliness, driven by Texan vitality and Waseda’s spirit of progressivism.
Fumiko Nakagawa（Graduated in 2019, School of Advanced Science and Engineering）

Covered in Waseda Gakuho, August 2025 Issue

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