We look forward to everyone getting to know our new Project Manager, Ms. Mariko Shimada, beginning with reading her introductory note.
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Dear JASK members,
My name is Mariko Shimada and I am happy to be the new Project Manager at JASK.
I am originally from Tokyo, Japan. Due to my father’s job assignments, I have lived in many countries, such as Holland, Korea and now the US. The longest place that I have lived is here in the U.S. – nearly twenty years now. I was in Washington State for most of that time and have now been in Kentucky for two years. After graduating from Washington State University with BA degree in Marketing, I spent a little time working with the Japan/America Society of Washington. I then worked at a software company in Washington. After a few years and a promotion to Sales/Marketing manager, my life changed when my son was born. I resigned the position and have focused on raising him since that time. Now that my son is a little older and going to school full time, I had begun to feel that I wanted to work again. I feel lucky to have found this position at JASK.
One of my passions is tennis. Since moving to Kentucky I have gotten involved with an organization that introduces kids ten-years-old and younger to tennis. I have been actively working with local elementary schools to introduce tennis. I really enjoy helping young children learn about such a great sport and hope to reach many children in Kentucky.
My son keeps our free time occupied with various sports activities such as tennis, soccer and baseball. I also play tennis, of course. I am a USTA 4.5 player. My local team will be playing the district tournament this summer, hoping to advance to the sectionals and beyond.
I am very excited to be part of the JASK team and look forward to meeting you all at future JASK events.
Sincerely,
Mariko Shimada
© Japan/America Society of Kentucky