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As CEO, Mike Takada has led JASC through some transformative years. For the last decade, he’s guided the organization through tremendous growth. Under his leadership, we’ve been steadfast in our mission to make JASC an inclusive destination center for everyone interested in Japanese American history, culture, and community. Now with our new facility opening this year, it’s the perfect moment for him to pass the baton to Courtney.
Please join me in welcoming Courtney to the JASC family!
Courtney comes to us from Washington, DC with over 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, most recently as the Chief Strategy and Communications Officer at Sustainable Fisheries Partnership (SFP). She brings strengths in nonprofit management, strategic planning, fundraising, and community building, internally and externally—all things that will be vital as JASC continues to grow.
What truly stood out to us during the search process was her understanding of the Japanese American experience, passion for community-centric work, and connection to our mission as we set out to envision the future and evolving needs of those we serve. We feel so fortunate to have her join and play a key leadership role in the community here in Chicago.
Knowing that Mike planned to retire after the building project was completed, we conducted a national search to find the right person to continue JASC’s legacy. Thanks to the efforts of our volunteer Search Committee and our search firm, DHR Global, we reviewed over 360 candidates.
The interest and passion we heard for what we are doing and where we are going at JASC reinforced great confidence in the promising future ahead. After careful consideration, Courtney was the clear choice. She’s the right leader for this new era, and I know she’ll bring great energy and fresh ideas to the role.
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