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Congratulations to all of you, the “Class of 2025” students, for your graduation!

Every June I have to prepare a number of special speeches for ceremonies and receptions. This time I would like to teach you how to master the toasting etiquette you will need during your university life.

After you enter Keio university this year or next year, all of you will be required to attend a number of receptions or simple get-togethers not only of your class or seminar but also of your circles mostly at the beginning and the ending of every semester. On these occasions, we should usually begin by raising a toast. When someone says “toast,” you have to raise your glasses and drink together in honor of a person or thing. This is a conventional form of celebrating someone or something.

Strictly speaking, toast is not a speech. However, it is often accompanied by a speech. Although the timing of the toasts depends on the structure of the event, Japanese toasts (乾杯の音頭) are usually given before luncheon or banquet, that is, before drinking or eating. This is the most important. If I’m not only a headmaster but also a toastmaster at this appreciation party, you are strongly demanded to do nothing until my toasting is completed.

You can find the most famous toast in the 1942 movie “Casablanca,” featuring the hardboiled hero Rick Blaine performed by Humphrey Bogart. When he enjoys reunion with his ex-girlfriend Ilsa performed by Ingrid Bergman and ends up by leaving her once again, Rick’s killer phrase is: “Here’s looking at you, Kid” (君の瞳に乾杯！) .

Of course, Japanese toast is much easier. You have only to say “Kanpai!”

So, please join me in proposing a toast to all of the Class of 2025” students, their parents and all of our faculty and staff. ”Kanpai!”