NIU’s very own anime club had its first meeting of the year this Tuesday, in the Preview Room of Cole Hall.

Amber Lewis, a senior studio art design major, became the president of the anime club this year. Michael Wright, a sophomore undecided major, is the vice president, while Omonike Ayorinde, a senior biological sciences major, will act as the anime club’s treasurer.

The anime club is a way to meet people who share a genuine interest in Japanese animation, better known as “anime.”

Wright introduced “Princess 9,” the first film that the organization watched.

This anime film surrounds Ryo Hayakawa and her incredible baseball pitching talent. This is the first of a number of animes that will be shown during the club’s meetings. “Full Metal Panic,” “Planetes” and “Fighting Spirit” will also be shown at this year’s gatherings.

Light discussion also took place at the first meeting regarding possible trips the club might be taking. In the past, the anime club has frequented Mitsuwa, the Japanese marketplace in Arlington Heights, as well as visits to Anderson Gardens, a man-made Japanese Garden in Rockford..

Individuals of many different ages, fields and backgrounds are involved in the club, so anyone interested in Japanese animation is encouraged to check it out.