Spring 2011 Newsletter

USJLP Delegates Join Disaster A special message from Relief Efforts in Iwate Prefecture George Packard I want to send deepest condolences to all who have been affected by the events of March 11 and afterwards. It has been a time of terrible tragedy for our Japanese friends and deep concern on the part of millions of Americans who have been touched by these events. Our US- Leadership network of Fellows, delegates and friends has generated a torrent of messages of concern and an extraordinary outpouring of sympathy and offers to help. If there is any silver lining to be found in all this, it is the reaffirmation of the value of our program, where Japanese and Americans have learned to communicate and share their deepest feelings with each other. We are determined to go forward, and we Laura Winthrop (11,12) surveys the devastation in Ofunato, Iwate. believe this summer's conference in , She and Spencer Abbot (10,11) share their experiences working with the U.S. government and with volunteer NGOs to assist Japan Hiroshima and elsewhere will be more in this unprecedented time of need. (Story on page 2) important and meaningful than ever before. You will meet in this newsletter the delegates An Outpouring of Support from the for 2011 - arguably one of the strongest classes ever - and I am pleased to note that fully one USJLP Community half of the new faces on each side are women! Within an hour after news of the Tohoku earthquake hit the On behalf of our foundation's board, I send world, USJLPers were online sending messages of concern, warmest congratulations to all the Fellows support, and information over who have blazed the trail to this point. You "In this time of crisis, the the USJLP mailing list. The first have created something special. Keep it USJLP network has one came in from Doug going and gambatte kudasai! proven to be a true Raymond (08,09), sending symbol of friendship information about a “person finder” site specifically created by Google to aid in between both countries." searching for those affected by the earthquake. - Yuka Uchida (05,06) Soon after, dozens upon dozens of messages flooded the list, many with prayers that our friends in Japan were all safe, all expressing the desire to help in any way Continued on page 2 1 Engaged Delegates Now Also towns in Iwate Prefecture. Spencer moved from his fellowship posting at the Japan Institute of International Engaged in Relief Efforts Affairs to the U.S. Embassy to contribute to the relief By Laura Winthrop (USJLP 11,12) and effort. Spencer Abbot (USJLP 10,11) On her first trip to Iwate, Laura helped All Hands Laura Winthrop and Volunteers conduct a Spencer Abbot were needs assessment and met engaged in late December with the local government 2010. In January 2011, they to establish a system for left their homes and jobs in assisting the local Washington, DC to move to communities. The mayor . Spencer began a of Ofunato, who had Council on Foreign spent a year at Harvard, Relations International Laura's alma mater, was Affairs Fellowship in Japan very welcoming of in February, and in early international assistance to March Laura was selected the relief effort, and since for the CFR-Hitachi then All Hands has been Fellowship as well. helping with clearing Laura and Spencer were The engaged couple met up in Ofunato in March while debris, sanitizing houses in Tokyo on March 11th Laura was there with All Hands, and Spencer was in and distributing food to 2011 when the 9.0 the region on behalf of the U.S. Embassy. survivors in the region. magnitude earthquake On Laura's most struck Japan. Following the quake, Laura began recent trip to Ofunato, she helped rehabilitate a dry working with an American NGO called All Hands cleaning business, spending two days mucking out Volunteers (www.hands.org) to aid tsunami victims in shoulder-high debris from the tsunami with the owner Ofunato and Rikusentakata, two of the hardest hit Continued on page 6 Outpouring Taka also reported to the message list that U.S. "USJLP is truly possible. “If there is anything Department of State-issued travel alerts had been one of the most that the USJLP community negatively affecting tourism in the Kansai area. In amazing can do,” came a call from response, both Joe Hurd (09,10) and Mark Vlasic organizations. Our David Motzenbecker (09,10) alerted their professional contacts at the State collective efforts (10,11) on the 11th, “please Department about the situation, suggesting that the bring big changes take the initiative to help.” previously issued travel alert should be revised. to the world." - The next day Rodney No gesture was overlooked by the community, Taka Kawakami Lewis (10,11) reported that including opening homes to those who may need a (08,09) the U.S. Air Force’s 4th Airlift place to stay. Ananda Martin (06,07) offered up the Squadron, which he guest room in her and Doug Raymond’s home in commands, had launched their first C-17 to fly in some Shanghai, as well as full access to their home on of the first responders to help with search Whidbey Island. Nelson Hernandez and rescue in the devastated prefectures. "I feel honored to be (00,01) in Ventura, CA, Terry Giles Taka Kawakami (08,09) offered his a part of this USJLP (00,01) in Los Angeles, and Tom services as a volunteer interpreter for the community that is Robertson (06,09) in Seattle all opened their respective spare bedrooms to U.S. military working for search and doing so much to either someone from Japan in need, or rescue. This offer was quickly relayed to help so many." - to a Fellow who needs a place to stay the Civil Affairs Advisor at the U.S. Naval Sarah White (10,11) Forces Japan by Steve Brock (06,07). Continued on page 7

2 Shaken But Safe By Takeo Takuma, Vice President, US-Japan Foundation, Tokyo Office We have been very touched by so many caring friends from the U.S. as well as Japan extending their concern and support to us after the 3/11 earthquake in Japan. Thank you very much. Please know that all of us at the US-Japan Foundation's Tokyo Office and our family members are safe. Each staff member The USJF Tokyo Office staff, from left: Yuko Mochizuki, happened to experience the quake at different places: Takeo Takuma and Aya Mizushima Takeo Takuma was participating in a symposium but evacuated the place quickly and tried several times evacuees from the same building) a police officer to call the Tokyo Office. All phone lines were busy, advised them to evacuate to the parking lot of the Hotel however, and he finally managed to leave a message Okura, which was unusually crowded with other on the office answering machine, instructing staff to evacuees from the neighborhood. Eventually, Aya and evacuate and take necessary precautions. Yuko got back to the Office, and found out on TV the Aya Mizushima was at a nearby travel agency to extent of the quake and that train services had been purchase train tickets for an upcoming business trip halted. when the quake struck, and soon made her way safely Takeo instructed Aya and Yuko to leave for home back to the office. as soon as possible by taxi. They tried to hail a taxi at Yuko Mochizuki was working at her computer in a street corner but to no avail, and then waited in line the Tokyo Office, and suddenly, a powerful temblor at a nearby hotel, but no taxis came. Eventually, Yuko swung open a number of file cabinets and knocked was able to get in touch with her husband, Yosuke, down vases and other objects. She safely escaped who kindly offered to pick Yuko and Aya up. After the building immediately. riding many hours in the ever-so-jammed traffic, Aya returned to meet Yuko at the Office, and then, thankfully they made their way safely back to their as they were standing outside the building (with other homes. TK Nakagaki (02,03) Leads Multi-faith Services for Japan After attending countless memorial services in the days and weeks after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, TK Nakagaki (02,03) was a firsthand witness to the important roles religious leaders play in offering solace during chaos. Drawing upon this lesson, TK moved swiftly in the days after the March 11 Tohoku earthquake to organize ceremonies which would give New Yorkers a time and place to memorialize those lost in the disaster and pray for hope and recovery for Japan. The first was a multi-faith service held on March 18, the one-week anniversary of the tragedy, with a candlelight vigil near the United Nations. "In spite of the time factor, it looked like a well-planned ceremony," TK stated to the press [1]. TK then coordinated with Muslim, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu and Christian leaders to organize a service titled "Interfaith Time TK Nakagaki leads New Yorkers in a candlelight vigil for Japan of Reflection for Japan" at the Riverside outside of the UN Church Center on Friday, March 18, 2011 Church on March 27. Close to 200 people

3 representing the ethnic and religious diversity of the city attended. The two-hour ceremony included a haiku reading, shakuhachi performance, silent meditation, and reflections by three representatives of the prefectures most acutely affected by the natural disasters. "As the lead organizer of the events,Nakagaki emphasized the importance of conveying to the Japanese just how much New Yorkers stood by them during their On March 27, Tk Nakagaiki (far right) led an Interfaith Time of darkest hours," Kyodo News reported [1]. Reflection for Japan at the Riverside Church in Post-9/11, TK served his local community in a his interfaith peers have also sought to bring material variety of ways, including volunteering as a chaplain at assistance to the earthquake victims. The March 27 ground zero. As a result of his firsthand experiences service was both a memorial and a benefit event for with 9/11 survivors he is deeply concerned about the Japan, with donations collected going to various well-being of the Japanese survivors struggling to charities including the Humane Society International reassemble their lives, as well as their relatives who and the Religious NGO Network on Humanitarian may be living in New York or elsewhere. Support [2]. "A lot of people talk about fundraising, but what Sources: [1] Magee, S. (4/13/11). Buddhist priest uses 9/11 experience to help victims. . Retrieved from: http:// about a cure for the hearts and minds?" TK asked search.japantimes.co.jp/; [2] Semple, K. (3/28/11). Prayers for Japan during a press interview [1]. Reflect City’s Diversity. The New York Times. Retrieved from: http:// cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/03/28/prayers-for-japan-reflect- In addition to working for spiritual relief, TK and citys-diversity/

Staying on Top With Twitter: to 7.5 million users during March 7-13 compared to the previous week [2]. After the earthquake struck, Nori’s Feed Catches Fire! voice access on many mobile phones was restricted but people were able to text and use data services - resulting in a surge of activity in the seconds after the earthquake when Japanese citizens took to social networks to exchange information as well as to search for friends and family [1]. The Prime Minister's office (@JPN_PMO) is aware of the reach and effectiveness of using new social media, especially when giving an English voice to the government. Nori's own Twitter handle (@norishikata) Given that Japan is one of the top markets for has over 11,000 followers and was listed as one of Twitter with an estimated 10 million active users, or the Wall Street Journal's top two Twitter feeds to follow about one out of every 10 people online [1], it comes for information on Japan [3]. Since the disastrous events as no surprise that the Japanese government has also on March 11 his feed has been on fire as he jumped on the social media bandwagon. However, continuously sends out information, in 165 characters when the top Google search return for "Noriyuki or less, on everything from Prime Minister Kan's public Shikata" - our own USJLPer (01,06) and the current statements, to words of encouragement and even Director of Global Communications for Prime Minister instructions on how to navigate daily life in the Kan - yields a link to his Twitter profile, the magnitude aftermath of the earthquake - such as how to withdraw of the Twitter revolution in Japan comes into focus. money from banks after losing one's official hanko Figures released at the beginning of April show that (personal seal). millions flocked to sites like Twitter following the As spokesman for the Japanese government, in the earthquake and tsunami. According to Nielsen week following the earthquake, Nori could be NetRatings Japan, Twitter's audience grew by a third frequently seen and heard conducting interviews with

4 numerous English media outlets including CNN, earthquake he sent out, on average, 30 tweets per CNBC, BBC and Fox News. Nori has also been day - funneling the most important and accurate presiding over all foreign press briefings, which have information to the public. been held almost daily since the beginning of April. On March 17 there came this message over his Between giving press interviews and statements feed and simultaneously updated his status: Nori has kept tweeting. In the days right after the "Thank you. I will go to bed now. RT @moui @norishikata Won't you take some rest, sir?" After a week of keeping the global community accurately informed on the aftermath of a triple disaster, Nori’s reply certainly deserves multiple clicks of the “Like” button.

Sources: [1] Preston, J. (3/13/11). After Quake and Tsunami, Japanese Citizens Flock to Social Media for Information. New York Times. Retrieved from http://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/03/13/ after-quake-and-tsunami-japanese-citizens-flock-to-social-networks- for-information/; [2] Associated Press (4/1/11). Japan Disaster Sparks Social Media Innovation. Retrieved from http://www.npr.org/templates/ story/story.php?storyId=135004019; [3] Koh, Y. (3/18/11). Following Japan: A Twitter Cheat Sheet. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved from Noriyuki Shikata (01,06) presiding over one of many http://blogs.wsj.com/japanrealtime/2011/03/18/following-japan-a- foreign press briefing at the Prime Minister’s office twitter-cheat-sheet/?mod=wsj_share_twitter Taro Kono Has Long Been a Critic of Nuclear Power Note: The following is a brief summary of an interview conducted by ABC Australia's Monica Attard with Taro Kono (00) on March 24, 2011. The full interview can be read, and heard, at: http://www.abc.net.au/sundayprofile/ stories/3172834.htm Japan, with 55 reactors providing 35-percent of the country’s energy needs, is the third-largest nuclear power user in the world. However, since entering March 17, 2011: Taro Kono (00) interviewed on CNN parliament in 1996, Taro Kono’s public message has about the nuclear reactor situation in Fukushima been consistent: nuclear energy does not have a future of negative media is a contributing factor as to why in Japan. only 15-percent of the Japanese population is opposed A thoroughly corrupt relationship between the to nuclear energy. In the wake of the Fukushima power companies and the government has been at the reactor disaster, Taro advocates that the power core of Taro’s criticism for many years. According to industry should be prohibited from sponsoring the Taro, the government is heavily backed by the power media so that a free debate on energy policy can finally companies' union and typically ex-bureaucrats sit on take place. the management board of TEPCO and other power Also serving as a member of the LDP's counter- companies. “Both parties are captive to the power disaster relief committee, Taro has stated that Japan is companies, and they follow what the power companies now at a crossroads, as the unfolding situation in want to do,” stated Taro in the New York Times on Fukushima has finally spurred a true debate on whether April 27. Neither the Nuclear and Industrial Safety or not Japan should stick with nuclear energy, or switch Agency, nor METI, can publicly criticize TEPCO when to renewable energy sources. "We have many choices, their senior people are sitting on the board, thus creating but…in the long run, what would be the most feasible what Taro refers to as a "very unholy triangle." alternative to nuclear (power) is renewable (energy)," Taro also explains that, "even the media is bought says Taro, as he continues his crusade to convince his and paid for by the power industry… (and the media colleagues in the LDP to relinquish their support of is) never allowed to criticize ( their) sponsors." A lack nuclear power in favor of renewable energy sources.

5 USJLPers Commune Together After Quake Report by Kenneth Cukier (USJLP 09,10) The first informal USJLP get-together following the quake, tsunami and nuclear crisis took place on April 9th at a brunch hosted by Kenneth Cukier at his residence in Tokyo. Pictured (from the left) are Yuuko Iizuka (00,09), Kenn, Yu Miyaji (10,11), Nobumasa Akiyama (09,10), Maki Nakayama (08,09) and Laura Winthrop (11,12). Not pictured are A pot-luck brunch brings USJLPers together in Tokyo Spencer Abbot (10,11), who left the brunch before the photo was taken to work at the U.S. Embassy on relief efforts, and Kota Yamaguchi (07,10), who came with his wife and four-month old daughter. Laura spoke about her experiences on a relief operation in Ofunato, a destroyed city where Yu, a writer for The Shimbun's weekend magazine and Kenn, a correspondent for The Economist, had both gone to report. Nobu, a nuclear proliferation expert, discussed Japanese perceptions on nuclear power. An Unusual Engagement Disaster Assistance (OFDA), as well as members of of the local dry cleaner. The hours in this kind of work the British and Canadian Embassies. are long and physically draining and the living conditions Spencer and his colleagues delivered relief supplies are basic (Laura stays on extra space on the floor of to a local Self-Defense Force unit and municipal officials an evacuation center when she is in Iwate), but the All in Onagawa and Kesennuma, and assessed local needs Hands model is to provide a meaningful job to anyone in support of the US military's Operation Tomodachi. who can get themselves there and wants to help. Spencer was also detailed to the Embassy's Bilateral As Japan Country Representative for All Hands Assistance Coordination Cell (BACC), an interagency Volunteers, Laura has also worked to ensure that All group commissioned by the U.S. Ambassador to Hands has the funds it needs to be able to continue to coordinate with the Japanese government regarding provide relief to the communities in need. She played support for Japanese efforts to manage the nuclear a key role in organizing a fundraiser for All Hands in crisis at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant. Tokyo in mid-April, which was attended by several Laura has recently begun her CFR Fellowship, other members of the USJLP family including Yuka which she will initially carry out with the U.S. Embassy Uchida (05,06), Moriyasu Ito (05,06), Akira as well. Laura is working on the public-private Yoshida (05,06), Maki Nakayama (08,09), coordination initiative to assist Japan's government and Kenneth Cukier (09,10), and Spencer Abbot. In a business communities with the recovery and single night, All Hands raised over ¥20,500,000 (over reconstruction effort, an initiative announced by $250,000) to help with the Japan relief and recovery Secretary of State Clinton during her April visit to effort. Japan. Laura and Spencer plan to live in Japan for at Laura and Spencer were able to meet up briefly in least the next four years, and Spencer will begin a Ofunato in March, while Laura was there working with command tour with an FA-18E Super Hornet All Hands, and Spencer was working in the region on squadron in Atsugi in June 2012. behalf of the U.S. Embassy. Spencer and another Laura and Spencer will be back in the U.S. in May Embassy colleague logged over 3,600 kilometers on for their wedding, and then will return to Japan to four trips through Iwate, Miyagi, Fukushima, Ibaraki continue to help in the recovery efforts. They are and Chiba Prefectures. Several of the assessment trips looking forward to seeing many Japanese and included participants from the U.S. Agency for American friends at what will be a very important and International Development (USAID) Office of Foreign meaningful USJLP conference this July.

6 USJLPer Hoists Top Honor to Sumo Champion On November 29, 2010, Yokuzona “Hakuho” won the No- vember Sumo Tournament held in Fukuoka. Among other prizes, the sumo champion was presented with the Prime Minister’s Cup from Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary (05,06) on behalf of Prime Minister Kan. On- lookers were reportedly worried about the presentation ending in bodily injury - but behold! Motohisa (with a little help) shoul- dered the cup without even break- ing a sweat. In a blog entry that Motohisa wrote regarding the experience, he inicated that the first order of busi- ness upon arrival in Fukuoka was Photo © Yomiuri Shimbun to practice lifting the Prime Motohisa Furukawa (right) presents Yokuzona Hakuho (left) with the Prime Minister’s cup at the Fukuoka Sumo Tournament Minister’s cup. “I heard it was heavy, but this was something be- cate of commendation and the cup, Motohisa returned yond my imagination!” he remarked. A kind onlooker directly to his office in Tokyo, where the Prime Minis- suggested to him to use his shoulders to ease the bur- ter thanked him with the following remark: den and soon Motohisa was carrying the gigantic tro- “Gokurosama deshita. It weighed a ton, didn’t it?” phy like a pro. Note: Quotes taken from Motohisa’s 11/28/10 blog entry on After a successful presentation of both the certifi- www2.furukawa.cc have been translated from Japanese into English.

Outpouring a site listing Japanese route to Asia. On the east coast, Rockford Weitz NGOs engaged in relief “It has been so very (06,07) posted that he has room for up to six people efforts and the funds that heartening to receive to stay at his home in and Raelyn Campbell are supporting them. messages of concern (08,09) offered a room in her apartment for crisis Through these and information refugees or anyone else who needs a place to stay exchanges, and many through the USJLP while traveling through Washington, DC. others, USJLPers forged family. I am honored In addition to so many offers to help, the message a strong bridge of support and amazed to find list was also full of that melded insight, myself among your inquiries, many contacts, and friendship ranks.” - Yayoi "I am truly overwhelmed seeking information to aid Japan in the wake Shionoiri (10,11) by all of your kind on how to help of the triple-disaster. On support both spiritually financially. March 15, in a message to the list, Niko Canner and physically for people In response to this (08,09) summed up the buzzing network with this who are affected." - need, David Janes observation: "Seeing the exchanges is a reminder of Masako (07,08) (02,03) put together the promise of the USJLP program - finding ways to http://japanassist.org, help each other when it matters most."

7 Ambassador Roos Hosts 2010 Tokyo Bonenkai USJLP Gains Bilateral Summary of Remarks from Ambassador Roos Government Recognition “I congratulate the efforts of In its first decade, the US-Japan Leadership the US-Japan Leadership Program operated entirely as a private organization, Program in cultivating the without help or influence by the governments of either next generation of friendship nation. Of course we had wonderful unofficial support between the from such figures as former Ambassadors Tom Foley and Japan. and Walter Mondale and former MITI Vice Minister After twelve years, 250 Shinji Fukukawa and Diet Members Taro Kono and leaders from the Japan and former Foreign Minister . But we U.S. have participated in the neither sought nor received “official support.” program. Most impressive We continue to be entirely independent, but we professional leaders have taken part in the program, are pleased that both governments have recognized making this program unique in promoting exchange the value of program. U.S. Ambassador to Japan and dialogue to foster long-term friendships across the John Roos hosted a magnificent bonenkai at his official U.S. and Japan over a wide-ranging spectrum of residence on November 18, 2010 to which all Fellows professional fields. and friends of the program were invited. On that Over the years, we have occasion, he told how President Obama and Prime witnessed the fruits of the trans- “I support the Minister Kan had recently met and agreed that the continuation and Pacific friendships that have USJLP was exactly the kind of organization they both further grown out of this program, hoped would thrive in the future. And Foreign Minister development of this including academic research in Seiji Maehara in his aisatsu also spoke highly of the program well into and about the other country, and program. Successive Japanese Consuls General in the future.” many appearances in different - Amb. John Roos New York, Shinichi Nishimiya and Peter Hiroki have media in both countries, also hosted events bringing together our Fellows with including print and television. new delegates. We cherish our independence but are I support the continuation and further development deeply grateful for this recognition of the importance of this program well into the future. Now I would like of younger leaders in each country forming to welcome the Honorable Seiji Maehara, the Foreign unbreakable bonds of friendship and communication Minister of Japan, who is joining me to celebrate this for the future. -George Packard special occasion.” A few takes from Ambassador Roos’ USJLP photo session! The Ambassador is all smiles with: (Left) Hideo (08,09) and Emi Ohashi; (Below) Atsuhito Tanaka (01,04), Narumi Shimada (00), and Kyoichi Sasazawa (07,08)

The Ambassador with: (Above) Nobumasa Akiyama (09,10) and his wife Yumiko; (Right) Ganeshwaran Mochida (09,10)

8 Foreign Minister Maehara Greets Bonenkai Former Foreign Minister’s Maehara’s Remarks the two countries. I strongly support the “I strongly support the “It is a great pleasure to see purpose of the US-Japan purpose of the US- Japan Leadership Ambassador Roos again so Leadership Program to create Program...people-to- soon after we saw each a network of future leaders in people exchanges are other in Yokohama las week. Japan and the U.S. through a significant Also, I have been very which you would be able to cornerstone to much looking forward to communicate easily with each underpin the Japan- U.S. relationship.” seeing President Packard other. Since we have such an - Hon. Seiji Maehara since we met in New York. outstanding group of Fellows It is a great honor to see all of the Program here tonight, I am really looking forward of you, Fellows of the US- to exchanging views fully and frankly. Japan Leadership Program, who are future leaders in Japan-U.S. cultural and people-to-people Japan and the U.S. exchanges are a significant cornerstone to underpin Last week Prime Minister Kan and President Obama the Japan-U.S. relationship, which is very close in a had a summit meeting in Yokohama. They agreed to broad range of fields such as politics, security, deepen and develop the Japan-U.S. Alliance for the economy and culture. Please let me conclude by kindly twenty-first century in a joint statement on the occasion asking you all for further support and understanding of Prime Minister Kan's visit to the U.S. in the first half to achieve even closer cooperation in this field of 2011, which was kindly proposed by President between our countries.” Obama. Japan has specified, and the President supported, the promotion of cultural and people-to-people exchanges as one of the three pillars for deepening the Japan-U.S. Alliance. On the other hand, people who know Japan well or care about the relationship with Japan have recently expressed their concern that people-to-people exchanges between the two countries have been tapering. In such a situation, the government of Japan is now considering concrete plans Ambassador Roos and Former Foreign Minister to further vitalize people-to-people exchanges between Maehara greet USJLP Fellows at Bonenkai

(Below: back row, from left) Tsutomu Nishino (07,08), Kyoichi Sasazawa (07,08), Kent Miyamoto (07,08), Masahito Watanabe (08,09) (Front row, from left) Daisuke Takatsuki (09,10), Mizue Oyama (09), Shinjiro Koizumi (Member, House of Representatives), Makiko Nakayama (09,10), Hideo Ohashi (08,09)

(Above, from left) Takafumi Kawakami (08,09), Makiko Nakayama (09,10), Kent Miyamoto (07,08), Yumiko Yagi, Kenji Yagi (08,09), Hideo Ohashi (08,09), Saiko Sugiyama (07,08), Daisuke Takatsuki (09,10), Mizue Oyama (09), Terumichi Tawara (10,11), Ganeshwaran Mochida (09,10), Hidetoshi Shibata (05,06)

9 Welcome 2011 First Year Delegates! First Year Japanese Delegates Masahiro Fukuhara Representative Director of Institution for a Global Society Corporation/Part-time Lecturer in Finance for Tsukuba University and Sagami Women's University, Tokyo

“The attendance of this program will open doors to bring me closer to my goal of creating a uniquely Japanese version of globally focused education through a network of U.S.-Japanese leaders.”

Keiko Ihara Racing Driver; Lecturer for Tokyo Motor Sports College; Teacher for BENESSE Kids English School, Aichi

“First, I want to connect with a lot of people USJLP members. Then study further in the second year for the conference.”

Daisuke Iwase Representative Director and Executive VP, Lifenet Insurance Company, Tokyo

“I look forward to fostering long-term friendship with both my Japanese and American colleagues.”

Hajime Kitajima Lieutenant Colonel, Japan Ground Self Defense Force; International Military Student, Command & Staff College, U.S. Marine Corps University, Tokyo

“I am honored to contribute to the USJLP as an expert on the national security. I am eager to broaden my perspective through intensive communication with other delegates!”

Takako Kubo Assistant Manager, Americas & Europe Group, Overseas Dept. No. 1, Overseas External Affairs Division, Toyota Motor Corporation, Tokyo

“I am so excited to join and meet members. It would be a great opportunity for growth to share thoughts and ideas among remembers with various expertises.”

Yumiko Kusakabe Senior Finance Officer, Financial Policy, Planning and Decision Support Unit, Finance Department, Inter-American Development Bank, DC

“I am really delighted and excited to be selected as delegate of the USJLP. It is an invaluable experience for me to get to know very interesting and talented, highly motivated group of people, who are leaders in their respective fields. I look forward to enjoying every moment of this fantastic experience.”

Keisuke Matsumoto Buddhist Priest at Komyoji Temple, Tokyo

“I love to know the culture and people in other countries. After the completion of MBA program in India, it is a great honor for me as a USJLP Delegate to share vision with young leaders from the U.S. and Japan.”

10 2011 Delegates Atsuko Nishigaki Senior Fellow and Director of Policy History Group, Research Institute of Economy, Trade, and Industry (RIETI); Senior Research Fellow, Institute for International Policy Studies, Tokyo

“I hope that I can get a broader perspective by changing various views with the other Delegates and also lifelong friendships through the USJLP conference”.

Kay Shimizu Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, , NY

“While I constantly make the effort to connect and communicate with experts beyond academics, the US-Japan Leadership Program will provide a unique opportunity to meet like- minded leaders of my own generation with whom I hope to build strong ties, and to create opportunities long beyond the time period of the Program to cooperate on matter pertaining to US Japan bilateral relations.”

Shigeki Sugii Scientist, Singapore Bioimaging Consortium; Assistant Professor, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School; Founder, Kagakusha Net, Singapore

“I hope to communicate with all the USJLP participants, contribute my knowledge in biomedical research areas, and share my experience in encouraging Japanese students to study abroad at U.S. graduate schools in science and technology.”

Maki Tanaka Manager, Industrial Research Team, Corporate Strategy & Research Department, Mitsubishi Corporation, Tokyo

“I am thrilled to be part of this distinguished program and cannot wait to meet with friends from U.S. and Japan. I look forward to discussing global issues and sharing my experiences with young leaders from the two countries.”

Hiroaki Toya Portfolio Manager, LIM Global Advisors Ltd., Tokyo

“I am looking forward to making new friends, and discussions as to how our two nations can work together to make the world better.”

First Year American Delegates

Jason Dean President, Fidelis Policy Group, LLC, MS

“From Tokyo to Tupelo, we increasingly live in a globalized economy. Participating in important programs like USJLP will potentially create meaningful cross-cultural understanding that leads to mutually beneficial economic and educational development opportunities.”

Jason Edgar Legislative Director, office of U.S. Representative Dave Reichert (R-WA), DC

“It is truly an honor to be selected for the USJLP. I hope that the perspective, experiences, and skills that I intend to bring to the program would be as valuable for fellow leaders from the U.S. and Japan as the learning, friendships, and professional partnerships I hope to take away from participating in the USJLP would be for me.”

11 2011 Delegates Brendan Kelly Advisor, Office of the U.S.- Strategic and Economic Dialogue, U.S. Department of Treasury, DC

“I am honored to be selected as a 2011 USJLP Delegate. I am particularly looking forward to meeting young Japanese and American leaders and discussing challenges facing both of our countries, areas for strengthening US-Japan relations, and also ways for our two countries to share views and cooperate on broader international developments such as the rise of China and reform of international governance.”

Ann Kim Journalist/Documentary Filmmaker/Multimedia Producer; Principal, The Creative Collaborative, MA

“It is a privilege to be selected for USJLP 2011. It is opportunities like this that give meaning to living in an age of globalization. I look forward to being part of this fantastic community.”

Aiko Lane Foreign Affairs Specialist (currently Japan Country Director), Office of the Secretary of Defense (Policy), DC

“I am looking forward to participating in the 2011 USJLP Conference to make new friends, build relationships, and create networks among a diverse group of people who can discuss, share, and enjoy each others’ perspectives on U.S.-Japan relations and world affairs.”

Nancy Lublin CEO, Do Something, NY

“Proud to represent my country. Excited to okonomiyaki with new friends.”

Grayson Murphy President, GMP Murphy & Company, Inc., CT

“Above all, I look forward to meeting the other delegates and learning from each other.”

Stefan Pryor Deputy Mayor for Economic Development, City of Newark, NJ

“Serving as a Delegate was of import prior to recent events in Japan, but it's even more meaningful following the March 11th earthquake. As someone who worked on the post- September 11th rebuilding in Lower Manhattan, I'm hoping to connect and share with Japanese colleagues regarding disaster-related experiences, to offer friendship and assistance through USJLP, and to learn from my fellow Delegates in general.”

J.V. Schwan Director for International and Corporate Affairs, Baxter International, DC

“The US-Japan Leadership Program maintains an excellent reputation as the premier group to facilitate better understanding and greater relations between Japan and the U.S. Japan, the United States and global economy all face unprecedented challenges. At this time, we need more engagement. More instances of the private sector working with government are necessary to facilitate growth, reduce global unemployment and reduce foreign debt.”

12 2011 Delegates Laura Winthrop Hitachi International Affairs Fellow, Council on Foreign Relations, Tokyo

“It's a tremendous honor to have been selected as a USJLP Delegate. I have been living in Japan for less than two months, but I have already developed a deep affection for the country and its people. In this time of post-earthquake devastation and crisis, I believe that the US- Japan Leadership Program is an important means for reaffirming a commitment to the alliance, for thinking collaboratively about serious challenges, and for deepening the ties of friendship between the United States and Japan.”

Second Year Japanese Delegates

Ryo Sahashi Associate Professor of Tomohito Ihara Recruit TMD, Tokyo International Politics, Faculty of Law, Kanagawa University, Kanagawa

Kentaro Kaihara Yayoi Shionoiri First Secretary, Political Legal Advisor, Kaikai Kiki Section, Embassy of Japan, New York, LLD, NY DC

Akihisa Shiozaki Norihito Kubota Assistant Professor, National Attorney-at-Law, Nagashima, Ohno and Tsunematsu, Defense Academy, Kanagawa Tokyo

Koichi Sughimoto Hajime Matsuura MD, Department of Senior Columnist, Sankei Cardiovascular Surgery, News, NY Tokyo Women's Medical University, Tokyo

Kazuo Tase Yu Miyaji Acting Director, United Reporter, , Nations Information Center Tokyo in Islamabad, Pakistan

Ryohei Nakagawa Terumichi Tawara Lecturer, College of Team Director, Misumi International Relations, Corporation, Tokyo Ritsumeikan University, Kyoto

13 2011 Delegates Second Year American Delegates

Spencer Abbot Lolita Jackson Lieutenant Commander, U.S. Manhattan Directory, Navy; International Affairs Community Affairs Unit, Fellow in Japan for the NYC Office of the Mayor, Council of Foreign Relations, NY Tokyo

Sumit Agarwal Senior Advisor for Cyber Rodney Lewis Innovation and Engagement, th 4 Airlift Squadron Principal Deputy Assistant Commander, WA Secretary of Defense (Policy), DC

John Blake David Motzenbecker Attorney, Morrison & Foerster Associate Partner and LLP (from late May, Landscape Architect, BKV 2011),CA Group, MN

Eric Nonacs Christopher Calabia Vice President, Alliances and Vice President, Federal Bank Partnerships, Skoll Global of New York, NY Threats Fund, CA

Benjamin Packard Elbridge Colby Vice President, Global Research Analyst, Center for Responsibility, Starbucks, Naval Analyses (CNA), MD WA

Savonne Ferguson Matthew Pottinger Vice President, Director of Edward R. Murrow Fellow at Regulatory Fund the Council on Foreign Administration, PNC Capital Relations, NY Advisors, LLC, MD

Geoffrey Gresh Visiting Fellow, Sciences Sarah White Po, Paris, France Visual Artist, NC

14 News & Updates October 2010: The Development Executive Group - The book also discusses attempts by both governments DEVEX - honored Mark Vlasic (08,09) in its list of to shape cultural exchange for state ends and the failure "40-under-40" International Development Leaders - of bilateral ties to prevent war. Royalties from the first referring to Mark as an “International Development edition will be donated to the Japanese Red Cross Renaissance Man.” The recognition, the first of its kind, for earthquake and tsunami relief efforts. was given to a diverse array of young leaders who were selected based on their influence on the Raelyn Campbell (08,09) development agenda and impact on development Last year for my 40th birthday I traveled to Tuscany results. to celebrate with adventure, amazing food, and loved November 2010: Mark Alexander (05,06) and ones. Adventure followed me into 2011 as I recently Mark Brzezinski (06,07) were accepted a new position as appointed by President Obama to "Senior Program Officer - the J. William Fulbright Foreign Pacific Rim, Global Health and Scholarship Board. They will both Advocacy" with the Gates serve three year terms as part of a Foundation's Global Health 12-member board which Program. I have been tasked establishes worldwide policies and with developing partnerships procedures for the Fulbright with Asian governments and Program and issues an annual other stakeholders to support report on the state of the Program. the Foundation's efforts to eradicate polio, combat AIDS, Raelyn and fellow self-proclaimed “winos” Life Updates! enjoying vino in Tuscany TB and malaria, develop new Spencer Abbot (10,11) vaccines, and advance other Laura Winthrop and I were engaged on December global health initiatives. I am very grateful to the many 30th, 2010 in a light USJLPers who offered advice and support during this airplane as the two of us career transition, and look forward to working with flew over the Bahamas! them in this new capacity! We will marry in late-May in Ipswich, MA, Laura's Joe Hurd (09,10) hometown. The National Export Initiative (www.trade.gov/nei) is the President's campaign to double US exports in Michael Auslin (04,05) the next five years. For the past 18 months, I have I am very happy to been working with 18 different government agencies, USJLPers to tie the knot! announce that my new state and local officials, businessmen and NGOs to Congratulations Spencer book, Pacific help reform America's trade agenda. It's been a (10,11) and Laura (11,12)! Cosmopolitans: A fabulous effort thus far, resulting in my team publishing Cultural History of U.S.-Japan Relations, has just the 2011 National Export Strategy and presenting it been published. This is the first book of its kind to tell to Congress at the end of March. the story of how Japan and America created such an enduring, and sometimes fraught, David Janes (02,03) relationship. Spanning from before Last November a chapter I wrote on the Yasukuni 1800 to today, Pacific Shrine titled, "Memories of War and Enacting the Cosmopolitans shows how the Future at Yasukuni Shrine," was published in Memory cultural side of U.S.-Japan relations and the Future: Transnational Politics, Ethics and was just as important as the better Society by Palgrave MacMillian. The book is a known political and economic ties compilation of interesting essays that focus on between Washington and Tokyo. collective memory and its bearing on contemporary

15 News & Updates political issues. matching up with the Also, I would like popular female incumbent to share a recent Minister. The Party has photo of Baby sent me everywhere for Emerson at his speeches, so I've earned Hatsumiya-mode the highest grade of the ceremony at the mileage club both with International JAL and ANA! The Shinto Foundation football club I chair, the in NYC. Rev. Shonan Bellmare, came The Kono family Baby Emerson (1) at hisHatsumiya- (clockwise): Taro (00), mode ceremony in April, 2011 Nakanishi was back to the Division 1 of Kaori, Yohei, and Ippei introduced to me the J League for the 2010 by USJLPer Ito Moriyasu (05,06) from Meiji Jingu. season, but lost 13 players to injuries and operations, and it will be down to the Division 2 for 2011. Anyone Nobuko Kato (05,06) interested in sponsoring a professional football club or In March I moved back to Japan to take a position managing it? with Johnson & Johnson as Director of Public Relations, working directly with the Ananda Martin (06,07) President. I will miss DC very much but I As of March 1, 2011 I joined the am glad to be back in Japan and can't wait corporate department of Paul to meet up with Tokyo USJLPers again! Hastings's Shanghai office where I am advising multinational Mona Khanna (07,10) companies on international Mona Khanna, MD, MPH, FACP, a triple corporate law and compliance board certified physician and Emmy Ananda Martin (06,07) and issues, particularly the Foreign Award-winning medical journalist, added Raymond (08,09) with Beatrix Corrupt Practices Act and Chinese (4) and Quentin (2) some “ooomph!” to Dr. Oz's recent anti-corruption law. I have also Prevention Power Hour by sharing her tips for recently joined the American Bar Association Global preventing disease. The full segment of her appearance Anti-Corruption Task Force, where I am writing can be viewed at: http://www.doctoroz.com/videos/ regularly on anti-corruption issues in East Asia. its-never-too-late-reverse-aging-pt-2. David McCallum (02,03) James Kondo (05,06) This spring, David underwent On April 18th Twitter named his final viows as a Jesuit in a James Kondo as their new special Mass held at Le and first country manager in Moyne College in Syracuse, Japan. With this role, James NY. The final vows are a has become Twitter’s first lifelong commitment to serving international country manager God and the Church as a and will be building out a team member of the Society of in Japan in the months to Jesus. come. David Motzenbecker (10,11) Taro Kono (00) After ten amazing years, I left I am now the opposition’s Oslund and Associates back in Shadow Minister for December in order to take a Government Reform, Dr. Mona (07,10) talks health and takes center bold and exciting move into a stage on the Dr. Oz show, February 2011

16 News & Updates Partner position with BKV the next level, and I will get to Group in Minneapolis, acting as spend more time with my family. their Director of Landscape Hope to see you all soon. Architecture and heading up that professional practice group. I Damon Porter (06,09) have also been busy with my In December of 2010, Missouri second position as President of Governor Jay Nixon asked me to the Minneapolis Planning lead a major expansion of Commission. I recently broadband accessibility to reach published an article about public more than 95 percent of the state engagement in the 21st century Three USJLPers hoist a glass in Tokyo: by 2014. There is $260 million and using a commons-based Hideo Ohashi (08,09), Junpei Sasakawa for 19 projects. approch to plan and shape the (09) and Akihisa Shiozaki (10,11) future of our communities. The article can be found at Matt Pottinger (10,11) www.onthecommons.org. Matt was profiled by Peter Osnos for The Atlantic on April 5. In it, Mr. Osnos shows how Matt’s career TK Nakagaki (02,03) progression from journalist at the Wall Street Journal In October 2010, I left the NY Buddhist Church, where to Intelligence Office for the U.S. Marines, and now I served for 16 years, to have more time to pursue my as an “individual ready to serve” as the Council on "Doctor of Ministry (Multifaith)" degree at the New Foreign Relations’ Edward R. Murrow Press Fellow, York Theological Seminary. In addition to my studies, has uniqely positioned him to analyze the Iraqi and I am also giving lectures on Afghan conflicts. Mr. Osnos also “salutes” Matt and Buddhism and the NY interfaith states that he, “hope(s) our leaders and the public can community at temples, schools, and take advantage of his insights. (Matt) has earned the other organizations both in Japan right to those views at great risk to himself and out of and the U.S. I recently published my devotion to American ideals.” The full profile can be second book in Japanese, viewed online at www.theatlantic.com. "Manhattan Bozu, Tsurezure Nikki (Diary of Buddhist Priest in Noriyuki Shikata (01,06) Manhattan)" with Gendai Shokan Press. Back in July I was transferred from the Foreign Ministry to the Prime Minister's Office to assume the Brian Nelson (08,09) post of Deputy Cabinet Secretary for Public Relations, After eleven years at ValueCommerce, I am finally Director of Global Communications. I conduct weekly retiring as Chairman and CEO on March 25, 2011. briefings for the international press in Tokyo, arrange We have built a great international press company, which we interviews with the Prime partnered with Yahoo! Minister, and always Japan in 2005, and then accompany the Prime took IPO in 2006. We Minister when he goes have over 250 employees abroad or attends now, and in 2010 we had diplomatic meetings in the highest profits ever, Japan. Since last fall, this and announced the has taken me to New company's first dividend York, Brussels, Nagoya, for shareholders. The Photo © Japan Cabinet Office Hanoi, Seoul, and company will have new Deputy Cabinet Secretary for Public Relations, Noriyuki Davos. Akiko has been management to take it to Shikata (01,06) at a press conference with President Obama transferred to the and Prime Minister Kan in November, 2010

17 News & Updates International Trade Division and has been working to forward to heading back negotiate a revision of Government Procurement south and serving with Agreement with the WTO which takes her to Geneva paratroopers again! almost once a month. Tomo, who is in the 11th grade, was greatly influenced by his summer school Kazuo Tase (10,11) experience at Temple University in Tokyo and is Hi USJLPers! Since last determined to apply for colleges in the U.S.this year. October I have been in Kazuo Tase (10,11) embarks Islamabad, Pakistan, as on a new position, and Brett Sylvia (09) the head of United Nations adventures, in Pakistan I returned from Afghanistan Information Center. While at the end of January after this country faces countless serious challenges including just over a year deployed floods and earthquakes, war and terrorism, poverty, with NATO Training gender inequality, and corruption, people here still have Mission in Kabul - time hope for the future. I look forward to sharing my flies... Naturally, the family experience here at the USJLP this summer in Japan. headed to the happiest place on earth! I will attend Yuka Uchida (05,06) some pre-command Yuka has recently left the DPJ and is now a freelance courses this spring and take diplomatic journalist. An article she wrote on the command of an airborne domino-effect of democracy in the Middle East, and combat engineer battalion how the Obama Administration is handling Middle Brett Sylvia (09) takes his family on his most recent at Fort Bragg, NC on June Eastern policy has just been published in the May 2011 mission - Disneyworld! 8th. We are looking issue of Chuo Koron.

Baby News: Class of 2040 filling up fast! Rachel Brunette-Chen (06,07) My husband, Perry, and I are happy to announce the birth of our daughter Erika. She arrived on January 18 - nineteen days past her due date! I love being a mom so far and look forward to watching her grow over the coming months and years. We are all adjusting smoothly to our new life as a family, though our dog seems to miss her "only child" Erika Brunette-Chen status. I'm looking forward to introducing Erika to other USJLPers and their families during Fellows Weekend this summer.

Geoffrey Gresh (10,11) I am happy to report that Leah and I had a beautiful baby girl on September 26, 2010: Audrey Galen Gresh. The photo on the left is her at 4 months and was taken at Shaykh Zayed Palace Museum in Al-Ain, UAE. Sugiyama Saiko Sugiyama (07,08) Audrey Galen Gresh I gave birth to a baby girl on February 10, 2011. My husband and I named our first daughter Inaho, which means “ear of rice” in Japanese. She weighed 6 pounds, 10 ounces (3015g) and is growing steadily. I’ve greatly enjoyed taking care of her during my maternity leave and I plan to return to work around the beginning of April. I can't wait to introduce you to Inaho in person!

18 A Few Words from the 2011 Executive Committee Co-Chairmen Executive Committee members and US- Japan Foundation staff came together for the Annual Executive Committee Meeting in February.

Back row, from left: Takeo Takuma, Hideo Ohashi (08,09), Brent Sadler (07,10), Tim Punke (02,05), Nobuko Kato (05,06),Tom Prata (05,06), Noriyuki Shikata (01,06), Heidi Brock (05,08), Tosh Minohara (04,07), Yuuko Iizuka (00,09), Hidetoshi Shibata (05,06).

Front row, from left: May Liang (04.05), Kelly Nixon, Dan Tani (02,03), Tomohito Shinoda (00), Aya Mizushima

Tim Punke (02,05) Tomohito Shinoda (00) “It was great to welcome a number “With the massive earthquake in of new faces to the Executive Tohoku, Japan is facing arguably its Committee this year. I hope you will biggest challenge in the postwar reach out to any of us if you have period. It is said that the suggestions or comments on ways reconstruction cost will be more to improve the program, or if you than 20 trillion yen (or 250 billion want to become more involved. dollars), and that it will take at least several years to We had a very strong group of applicants for the physically recover. program this year, and all of us are excited about the Despite of overwhelmingly pessimistic reports in 2011 class. Please continue to encourage good the media, I am optimistic about Japan's future. This candidates to apply, as our strongest candidates almost disastrous experience provided us a great turning point, always learn about the program from USJLP alum. and the reconstruction of Tohoku became our At the February meeting we discussed our consensus, which was long-lost feeling for the Japanese commitment to the capital campaign. We are fortunate people. to have May Liang overseeing this effort on the U.S. Many of us are so moved by the people around side, and my strong hope is that, regardless of giving the world who sent warm, caring messages and level, we can get 100 percent participation. We will contributions to Japan. Now, more than ever the have more details to communicate to the Fellows about Japanese people are proud to have the United States the campaign soon. We also hope to have a new as an ally. When my friends began a project (Global website up and running by the end of this year, which WA Project) to run a whole-page ad in the Washington will make it easier to communicate with each other Post to thank the American military personnel in and to promote the program. Tohoku, I quickly signed up. (The ad is expected to Let me end by saying how grateful I am to be a run on May 9 and 30.) part of USJLP. This has been an incredibly difficult This year's USJLP program will be held in the year in Japan and for all of us who have friends and aftermath of this disaster. There will be many things colleagues affected by the events there. One of the for the delegates to discuss. I am particularly interested great achievements of USJLP is the bonds that it has to see what kind of creative ideas they can come up created between all of us involved in the program, with, regarding the future of Japan and U.S.-Japan which has been particularly evident in the outpouring relations. I would give some areas to consider like of support in these past few weeks. I look forward to exchange programs, sister city link expansion or seeing many of you in the weeks and months ahead.” stimulate the U.S. sister city to get involved.”

19 Latest Plans for the 2011 Conference The 12th Annual USJLP Conference will be held in Kyoto, Hiroshima and Kobe Sunday, July 17 to Sunday, July 24, 2011

Revised itinerary is as follows (subject to change): Sunday, July 17 / Kyoto Arrivals, Welcome Dinner at Westin Miyako Hotel Monday, July 18 / Kyoto Plenary and Breakouts, Lunch over plenary, Traditional Japanese Arts Performance, Guided tour with Professor Frank Chance, Dinner at Ganko Tuesday, July 19 / Kyoto Plenary and Breakouts, Ryoanji Temple, Tofu Lunch at Seigen-in, Dinner at Hiroya Wednesday, July 20 / Kyoto Plenary and Breakouts, Lunch over plenary, Dinner at Westin Miyako Hotel Thursday, July 21 / Kyoto Day trip outside of Kyoto city Friday, July 22 / Kyoto to Hiroshima Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, Sightseeing in Hiroshima Saturday, July 23 / Hiroshima to Kobe Himeji Castle, Dinner at Arima Onsen Sunday, July 24 / Kobe Departures SAVE THE DATE! The 2012 USJLP Conference in Seattle will be held: Saturday, July 14 to Saturday, July 21, 2012 Fellows Weekend: July 19 - 21, 2012

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