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JTAM Hall of Fame
Founded in 1996, the Japanese Teachers Association of Michigan (JTAM) proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2026–2027!
To mark this milestone, we have created this page to recognize the many current and former teachers who have contributed to Japanese language education in Michigan. We hope this page will inspire prospective teachers interested in opportunities in Michigan. We also hope it will help reconnect teachers with current and former colleagues and students.
Mariko Kawaguchi
Michigan State University (2008-)
Lansing Community College (2024-)
I enjoy sharing Japanese language and culture with students and helping them discover new perspectives through language learning. I also find it rewarding to connect students with real-world opportunities to engage with Japan and Japanese-speaking communities.
Yamato Kitahashi
University of Michigan (2021-)
I am a Lecturer of Japanese at the University of Michigan. I am originally from Osaka, known as Japan's comedy capital. I bring humor to the classroom, and I am always grateful when my Michigan students kindly laugh at my jokes.
Ritsuko Shudo
Novi High School (2023-)
MSU Gifted and Talented Education M.A.N.G.A.(2021-2023)
I teach Japanese and IB DP Japanese at Novi High School. Every day, I am inspired by my students’ cross-cultural learning. Through language education, I aim to empower students to cultivate a global perspective and thrive in an interconnected world.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritsuko-shudo-68b1531b/
Sara Lehman
Cass Technical High School (2022-)
Konnichiwa! My name is Sara Lehman. I have worked as a Japanese language teacher in Detroit for the past 4 years. Although I was raised near Detroit, I have been traveling to Japan since I was born to visit my family who lives near Nagoya. I love working with high schoolers who are curious about Japanese culture and watching them expand their world view. Sharing my language and culture with my students is a dream come true! Yoroshiku onegaishimasu!
Akiko Imamura
University of Michigan (2023-)
Michigan State University (2020-2023)
I have taught Japanese language and introductory Japanese linguistics courses. I strive to help students develop solid language proficiency that enables them to achieve and expand their future goals. I also aim to cultivate students’ cultural understanding and multifaceted viewpoints to transcend socio-cultural and ideological boundaries.
