JASC Executive Director Claudine Locascio was honored to serve on a planning committee recognizing the newest “sister” relationship between Colorado and Japan. The committee hosted an event this month to celebrate the fact that Colorado Scenic & Historic Byways Council and Scenic Byways Hokkaido Promotion Council have established a “Sister Byways” relationship. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Hokkaido last month, with several Colorado representatives attending in person. Last week our celebratory event was held in Golden, along the Lariat Loop Scenic Byway. Representatives from state and local governments along with Consul General of Japan in Denver Hiroyuki Okajima were all in attendance. Representatives from Hokkaido joined virtually live from Hokkaido.

The purpose of establishing such a relationship is so that Colorado and Hokkaido can work together to revitalize scenic byways, create joint initiatives, and create guidelines with the goal of contributing to tourism and preservation of cultural heritage. JASC member Courtney Ozaki performed at the event through her Japanese Arts Network, showcasing a beautiful trio of taiko, shamisen and Japanese flute shinobue. JASC Member Misaki Restaurant (Stanley Marketplace) catered a beautiful meal for all attendees.

We look forward to continuing to shepherd this unique and beautiful relationship into the future.

Left, center photo: Stephanie Garnica; Right, upper photo: Brandon Shepherd (left) & James Fukazawa; Right, lower photo: John Hayato Branderhorst

JASC looks to deepen Colorado Japan relations in 2025 with two new officers and two new directors.

Denver, Colorado: Last week JASC welcomed new leadership as a new president and executive vice president stepped into their roles. The organization also added new board members. Visit the staff and  board members page to see all officers and members of the board of directors: www.jascolorado.org/staff   

Stephanie Garnica announced as President of the Board of Japan America Society of Colorado.

Stephanie is the Interim Chief Business Development Officer and Director of Global Engagement at Denver’s Economic Development & Opportunity Office. In this role, Stephanie leads efforts to attract, retain, and grow businesses in the city and oversees the city’s international strategy building Denver’s reputation as a global hub of innovation and collaboration. She brings a wealth of economic development and community leadership experience to the job and is known as an inclusive, thoughtful partner. Stephanie has vast experience both leading delegations to Japan and hosting delegations from Japan. She is involved with many globally focused initiatives in the Denver Metro area including the Biennial of the Americas, World Trade Center Denver, and StudyColorado.

John Hayato Branderhorst announced as Executive Vice President of Japan America Society of Colorado.

John is Managing Director at JHB Consulting and Director of Operations at btrax, a San Francisco- and Tokyo-based design and marketing firm. In these positions, John helps companies navigate successful market entry between the United States and Japan. Drawing from his JET Program experience and entrepreneurial background co-founding Tabe Ramen, John frequently speaks at events like Boulder and Denver Startup Week, sharing insights on both cross-cultural business development and community engagement strategies. John spent 20 years living in Japan and now calls Colorado home where he enjoys getting outside and spending time in the mountains. 

Japan America Society of Colorado announces election of two new Directors to the Board.

Brandon Shepherd is Director of Innovation at Inspired Functional Brands, an innovative company developing cutting edge functional beverages targeting the immune system and gastrointestinal health. Brandon is a founder of Mile High Food Science where he developed groundbreaking products and collaborated with major brands across the U.S. and Central America. Brandon spent time living and teaching English in Japan and brings his passion for Japanese culture to all aspects of his life.

James Fukazawa is an attorney at Sherman & Howard/Taft, the oldest law firm in Denver. Working in the Real Estate practice group, James helps clients accomplish their transactional real estate goals by navigating complex local, state, and federal legal and regulatory landscapes. James spent four years living and teaching in the Kanto region of Japan before returning to attend law school at the University of Denver. Outside of the office, James enjoys cooking, motorcycling, and skiing.

JASC is eager to welcome these new perspectives into the organization as it looks ahead to programs and activities in the coming year. The Japan America Society of Colorado is a non-profit organization dedicated to expanding people to people relationships between Colorado and Japan by serving as a bridge to connect via business, education, and cultural opportunities. To learn more, visit our website at www.jascolorado.org

On September 16, 2023, the Japan America Society of Colorado (JASC) had the honor of participating in the International Day of Denver Startup Week. This event brought together innovators and entrepreneurs from various backgrounds to share insights and foster connections.

JASC Executive Director Claudine Locascio and Board Member John Hayato Branderhorst led a session titled "Understanding Japan through Business, Education & Cultural Synergy." The session aimed to explore the unique opportunities for collaboration between the U.S. and Japan in these key areas. We were privileged to have the session introduced by Mr. Yoichi Mikami, the Consul General of Japan in Denver, emphasizing the importance of international partnerships.

As we look ahead, JASC is excited to welcome more international startups to Denver, particularly those from Japan. Together, we can create meaningful connections that enhance cultural exchange and drive innovation.

Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming events and initiatives!