Members and VIPs
Joe
Chairperson
Joe joined the commission in 2014 and was elected chairperson in 2017. His efforts as chair of the commission have grown outreach and awareness of Japanese culture in the Bethlehem community, and continue to foster a healthy relationship with our sister city.
Ellen Bearn
Former Chairperson
Ellen has served as part of the commission for many years, and was chairperson until 2017 when she was succeeded. Always ready to step up to the plate, she continues to play an active role as a member of the commission.
Nancy Topping
Treasurer
Nancy has also been part of the commission for many years alongside the previous chairperson, Ellen. Organized and thorough, she continues to lend her support in all areas of need.
Deirdre Sumpter
Japanese Instructor
Deirdre joined the commission in 1997, and served as a valuable member of the commission until her passing on September 30th, 2023.
A long time veteran of education, Deirdre led our free Japanese classes at the Bethlehem Public Library. Her memory and legacy remain with commission members, students, and community now and into the future.
Alison Pilorz
Secretary
Alison has served on the commission as secretary and origami master for many years. Her connection, however, dates back to her very own participation in our student exchange program!
John Rivera
Our number one イケメン
John is another former exchange student and acts as leader of the commission’s extremely popular sakura festival tea ceremony, and as an exchange program event planner.
Michiyo Salen
The Vital Native Speaker
Michiyo tours our Japanese visitors around the Bethlehem area and has been an outstanding volunteer at numerous commission and exchange program events, as well as a host for exchange students.
Autumn Edwards
Media Manager & Event Planner
Autumn has been involved in activities since 2016, and was a previous exchange student! She is now an official member of the commission serving as web manager, event planner, and Japanese teacher.