Testimonials
Mansfield Alumni Fellow Testimonials
“From its inception, the Mansfield Fellowship program has given U.S. government employees a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get an insider’s view of how the bureaucracy works and how decisions are made in Japan. Throughout the Fellowship program, I had exceptional exposure to the Japanese government and acquired a deeper understanding of Japanese language and culture. While Japan has changed greatly since I was a Fellow, [much of] what I learned remains very valid today. Throughout my career, I have been able to draw extensively from the insights and expertise gained during my Fellowship—both in facilitating cooperation as well in negotiations with Japan.”
– Amy Jackson, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (former), Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (current), member of Mansfield Foundation Board of Directors, MFP No. 1
“The Mansfield Fellowship Program has been an invaluable experience. In Japan, I had the unique opportunity to work hand-in-hand with my Japanese government counterparts on a wide range of domestic and international issues. The experience helped broaden my knowledge of Japan’s drug regulatory system, foreign affairs, customs enforcement and more. Since I returned to the FDA, the information and skills acquired in Japan have been a tremendous help in my day-to-day work coordinating public health issues. I will always cherish the working relationships and personal friendships developed through this program and I plan to continue working in this area for many years to come.”
– Sema Hashemi, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, MFP No. 12
“My experience as a Mansfield Fellow has been an amazing opportunity for me. As a trade analyst for the U.S. Department of Commerce in Washington DC, my knowledge of what is going on in Japan was limited to information I gleaned from a limited number of sources. Being in Japan has allowed me to develop a fuller picture of the broad economic and political trends in Japan. Having the opportunity to be placed in Ministries related to my job has given me an amazing opportunity to understand the complexities of inter-agency relationships. This knowledge will make me a much more effective analyst when I return to Washington.”
– Jay Biggs, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, MFP No. 13
“I spent my Fellowship year learning as much as I could about the U.S.-Japan security relationship, the ‘keystone of peace and security in the Asia-Pacific region.’ The opportunities afforded to me during the Fellowship have allowed me to gain a better understanding of Japanese defense issues, including Japan Self-Defense Forces and bilateral transformation issues, missile defense and bilateral and defense cooperation issues, from the perspectives of the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Diet. Even better, I’ve been able to form professional and personal friendships with those who will be my counterparts during my follow-on assignment to the Joint Staff at U.S. Forces Japan.”
– Cory Hanna, U.S. Air Force, MFP No. 13
“The Mansfield Fellowship Program offers an outstanding opportunity for those U.S. federal employees interested in actively understanding the government of Japan’s policy and decision-making process. Following the one-year Japanese language and culture training, Fellows are placed within Japan’s civil servants, agencies and commercial companies that are associated with his/her U.S. federal agency. The year in Japan offers the Fellow various opportunities to learn about their counterpart agencies, as well as discover new and exciting things about Japan’s history, culture, and people through the various site visits. The personal contacts and understanding I gained during the two-years as a Mansfield Fellow has prepared me to effectively serve as a solid ‘cross-bridge’ between the U.S. Department of Energy and our Japanese counterpart agencies, while also equipping me with the knowledge and skills to work as a ‘catalyst’ between our agencies on new initiatives that may come up in the future.”
– Ken Ishimaru, U.S. Department of Energy, MFP No. 13
“The Mansfield fellowship has been an extremely rewarding and unforgettable experience. As an international trade litigation attorney at the Department of Justice, I was interested in Japan’s trade policies as well as its legal system. To learn about Japan’s approach to trade agreements and development, I was placed in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs where I worked with negotiators of Economic Partnership Agreements and representatives to the World Trade Organization, and subsequently worked with a team at the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry by researching various Asian countries’ legislative framework for private investment in public infrastructure projects. With respect to the Japanese legal system, I was fortunate to have been able to observe classes not only at the Legal Research and Training Institute where judges and prosecutors are trained, but also at the University of Tokyo Graduate School of Law. My placement at the Tokyo High Court enabled me to not only observe firsthand proceedings in civil litigation and settlement conferences, but also to discuss with the judges their views on the legal system. I am truly grateful at having had the opportunity to gain a ‘hands-on’ experience where I gained valuable insight about Japanese legal system that couldn’t possibly have come from just reading about it in a textbook.”
– Michael Panzera, U.S. Department of Justice, MFP No. 13
“The United States will continue to be involved in East Asian security matters for the foreseeable future. This involvement will require understanding the perspectives of the countries in the region, and the Mansfield Fellowship program provides a great chance to learn and consider the perspectives of one of our closest allies. Sitting in an office surrounded by Japanese counterparts, listening to daily conversations about issues related to U.S.-Japan security ties, and discussing defense topics relevant to both countries helped cement professional relationships, which will inevitably be utilized in the near future. I am thankful for the opportunities given to me by the Mansfield Fellowship program and look forward to meeting again with my Japanese counterparts during regular bilateral exchanges.”
– Janet Cho, U.S. Department of Defense, MFP No. 14
“Japan is modern but not western. While Americans and Japanese share many of the same values, namely strong democratic traditions and respect for the rule of law, we make decisions and implement public policy very differently. This fellowship provided a candid view of how fisheries and ocean policy are implemented in Japan; an appreciation of Japanese culture, history, and traditions; and, for many of my colleagues I was the first American they had ever communicated with in their language — meaning they could express themselves more comfortably.”
– Michael Clark, National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, MFP No. 14
“My participation in the Fellowship allowed me the opportunity to learn about Japan’s current transportation issues and initiatives, its regulatory approach, and the ways that its central and local governments are working to preserve and improve on their existing transportation systems. In the process, I found that the perspectives gained in talking to my Japanese counterparts were also helpful in gaining insights into transportation issues back at home.”
– Elizabeth Machek, U.S. Department of Transportation, MFP No. 14
“My Fellowship year afforded me the opportunity to achieve a deep understanding of Japan’s progress towards modernizing its Air Transportation System. The Mansfield Fellowship experience has allowed me to develop a broader knowledge of Global Air Transportation System transformational issues and Japan’s important regional role as an Air Navigation Service Provider. I now fully appreciate the critically important relationship that exists between the United States and Japan. Most importantly, I developed a robust set of professional friendships with my Japanese colleagues within various aviation-related governmental ministries and private industry. The Mansfield Fellowship Program has been a deeply rewarding experience, both personally and professionally.”
– James Spillane, Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, MFP No. 15
“The Mansfield Fellowship has provided a unique opportunity to observe Japan’s political and legislative processes. Following the formulation of the national budget within my placement office at the Ministry of Defense, to my placement office at the National Diet, served to enhance my understanding of Japan’s national and regional funding priorities. The fellowship developed not only my understanding of Japan’s government structures but also served to increase my Japanese colleagues’ understanding of the structures and policies of the United States Congress. I am now able to communicate Japan’s perspective and serve as a bridge between our two governments regarding issues of mutual concern.”
– Rachelle M. Johnson, United States Senate, MFP No. 15
“The Mansfield Fellowship Program has truly been a once-in-a-lifetime experience that has provided excellent insight into the Government of Japan and Japanese culture. As a Fellow I have spent several months working with the Civil Aviation Bureau learning about safety systems and union-management relationships. I have also had the opportunity to compare union structure and negotiations in private industry while placed at All Nippon Airways, commonly known as ANA. This knowledge has given me a new perspective on safety management as well as union relationships while working at the Federal Aviation Administration.”
– Nathan Purdy, Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, MFP No. 17
“Like many of my USAF and DOD predecessors in the Fellowship, my learning objectives centered on Japan’s defense-policy processes, national security issues, and Self Defense Force operations. Thanks to the world-class support of my Japanese hosts at the Ministries of Defense and Foreign Affairs, House of Councillors, Japan Coast Guard, and Cabinet Secretariat, not only did I achieve my goals, but I also built lasting bonds—“kizuna”—that I look forward to strengthening as a USAF Regional Affairs Strategist for Japan. Additionally, supplemental tours and programs arranged by the Foundation and the GoJ broadened my perspective by providing valuable insight into Japan’s private sector and corporate thinking. But I will always remember that I applied for this program in the immediate aftermath of 3/11, so my three trips to the Tohoku region that included tours of the disaster area and observation of recovery operations from both the ground and the air, re-affirmed my admiration for the strength and dignity of the Japanese people.”
– Kristofer Padilla, U.S. Air Force, MPF No. 17
“My year in Japan has been a unique and valuable experience. Every placement was rewarding, and each allowed me to have a well-rounded first-hand experience in the drug development process within Japan. Meeting my regulatory counterparts face-to-face and having daily interactions with them has really strengthened relationships – both professionally and personally. The Mansfield Fellowship has given me the opportunity to meet new people, obtain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and expand my knowledge of global drug development. In addition, I am extremely grateful for the Fellowship in allowing me to not only experience the breadth and depth of Japan firsthand, but to allow my family to share in the adventure with me.”
– Catherine Lee, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, MFP No. 18
“My Mansfield Fellowship has been the most insightful and deeply rewarding time of my career. Each placement offered new challenges and opportunities that wouldn’t be available outside of this incredibly unique program. Working on cybersecurity policy issues in five offices across the Japanese government gave me a broader and more intimate sense of institutional perspectives, equities, and competencies than I could have imagined. And my placement in the National Diet yielded insights into the political process that would have been unattainable through other means. Perhaps most importantly, I built strong connections to–and friendships with–Japanese counterparts who I am certain will be central to the Alliance for many years into the future.”
– Robert Sheldon, U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, MFP No. 18
“As the U.S.-Japan relationship is second to none, the Mansfield Fellowship Program is a second to none professional development opportunity for seasoned Japan specialists and first timers alike. While I came in with Japan experience, this Fellowship year has been
filled with new experiences and countless learning opportunities. Whether it was visiting the Onagawa nuclear reactor, observing Rakuten’s “Englishnization” program, helping train 151 Uniqlo new hires, or helping coordinate the fifth U.S.-Japan Clean Energy Policy Dialogue, I took away knowledge, contacts, and improved language skills. I came in as a Japan specialist, but will leave the program as an even more capable Japan specialist. I look forward to contributing towards the bilateral relationship in my new role at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo.”
– Yuri Arthur, U.S. Department of Commerce, MFP No. 18
“The Mansfield Fellowship is the premier opportunity for US government officials who wish to understand Japan and how it relates to the rest of the Asia-Pacific region as well as the world. I was able to intimately experience a variety of critical issues, including defense budget, bilateral cooperative programs, Japanese Self-Defense Guideline revisions, emergency disaster relief, NGO international/domestic operations, and Public Relations efforts. Additionally, I gained perspective through working with Japanese colleagues on sensitive social issues including the UN draft Lucens Guidelines promoting children’s warzone education rights and the Japanese alternative care system. This year not only gave me a more complete and comprehensive appreciation for Japan, but also created a wealth of Japanese and foreign associates, experts, and friends who I will be able to work with for years to come towards the continual improvement of US-Pacific foreign relations. What an incredible year!”
– Jared Paslay, U.S. Air Force, MFP No. 18
“The U.S. – Japan relationship is the most important bilateral relationship in the world. What makes the relationship so strong is not only documents like the security treaty, but person-to-person, individual bonds of mutual understanding, trust and friendship that only come from close interaction. That is what I gained in my time as a Mansfield Fellow. Knowing why my Japanese counterpart is saying what they’re saying and doing what they’re doing, knowing who to talk to for what, and understanding the inner workings of the Japanese government as a whole will prove invaluable in my next assignment at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, in my career as a Regional Affairs Specialist for the Air Force, and in any part I play in America’s dealings with her primary Pacific partner from here on.”
– Phillip Dobberfuhl, U.S. Air Force, MFP No. 18
“The Mansfield Fellowship provided me the unique and unparalleled opportunity of working inside a foreign government for a year, and not just any government, but the government of Japan, the most important U.S. ally in Asia and quite possibly the world. This at a time when Asia is becoming increasingly important for the United States as evidenced by our “pivot” to Asia. Through the fellowship I gained an insiders view of the programs, practices, and policies of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Defense, and the Parliament, and develop friendships that will last a lifetime. With my newfound knowledge and friendships I look forward to pursuing new opportunities for the United States in Japan, and for U.S.-Japan collaboration in Asia and beyond in the fields of commerce, security, and defense.”
– Jonathan Thompson, U.S. Department of State, MFP No. 18
“There is a Japanese word that often comes to mind when thinking back over the course of this year: ‘matatonai’ (又と無い).
It means, ‘matchless,’ ‘unique,’ or ‘unparalleled.’ I can think of no other opportunity available to domestically-based, mid-career U.S. civil servants that can provide such unparalleled opportunities to gain insights, build bridges, and work on projects with, and for, an allied foreign government. Beyond the research papers, grant proposals and reviews, presentations, and translation work I did for the various offices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan, Japan International Cooperation Agency, and the New Energy Development Organization, I gained some invaluable insights about those organizations: their priorities, their decision-making processes, the way people go about their work. Above and beyond anything else, I came away strongly impressed by their indisputable and solid support for the United States. I was also incredibly impressed by the level of trust and access these high-profile Japanese government agencies provided me, and the willingness of supervisors and co-workers to bring me right into their work.
The knowledge and experiences I have gained over the course of this Fellowship year are directly applicable to my foreign assistance-related work at the U.S. Department of State, and the friends and connections I have made at those offices will almost certainly be valuable as I move forward in my career.”
– Ariel Wyckoff, U.S. Department of State, MFP No. 19
“After March 11, 2011, many representatives of the Japanese government visited the nuclear cleanup site where I worked to learn about our expertise. During these interactions, my career goals changed. I wanted to learn about the cleanup efforts in Fukushima and provide professional expertise if possible. Without having any real Japan experience, I turned to the Mansfield Foundation seeking this valuable fellowship. As far as I could see, no other organization had the ability to give such a hands-on experience in Japan to a Japan affairs novice. During my year in Japan, I also learned about nuclear non-proliferation, global security and clean energy technology. I traveled to almost half of the prefectures in Japan visiting sites and facilities and networking with counterparts. Now I have the opportunity to continue working on U.S-Japan issues and look forward to furthering the relationship. This fellowship helped me accomplish my career goals.”
– Cameron Saloney, U.S. Department of Energy, MFP No. 19
“The Mansfield Fellowship year provided a unique opportunity to work directly with my Japanese counterparts and learn firsthand about the various law enforcement issues in Japan. Increased internationalization and a changing demographics are presenting new challenges and it was a very exciting time to be in Japan. The Fellowship year allowed me to develop contacts and gain insights which will be extremely valuable in furthering U.S.-Japan law enforcement cooperation. I look forward to supporting Japan in its preparations for the 2020 Olympics.”
– Jason Ferguson, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice, MFP No. 19
“The Mansfield Fellowship provided me with the invaluable experience of actually working inside my agency counterpart. I learned how it works, how I can improve the relationship, what hurdles there might be, and ultimately made contacts that can help overcome those hurdles. Simply put, there is no other way to gain this type knowledge without being Japanese! Fantastic program!”
– Isaac Nichols, Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice, MFP No. 19
“My primary objective as a fellow was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Japanese political and economic decision-making that upon my return to the Congress, I could contribute as a Japan specialist to the small yet influential cadre of Asia specialists in this policy arena. I feel as if the fellowship not only allowed me to increase my understanding but also has given me a charge to promote its history, because that understanding is critical to having a fuller appreciation of the current geopolitical situation in Asia. The language training, mentoring, and professional camaraderie allowed me to engage Japanese counterparts, enhance my understanding of U.S.-Japan relationships, and improve my Japanese skills. What is unwritten is how when immersed, you are challenged, pulled out of your comfort zone, and that’s what contributes to personal and professional growth—and is indeed what made my year so thoroughly insightful, enriching, and oft entertaining. I certainly feel more confident in going back to my role as a legislative counsel—imbued with a stronger sense of understanding of Japan and Asia, and eager to contribute to the unique area of U.S.-Japan policy.”
– Darrell Rico Doss, House of Representatives, U.S. Congress, MFP No. 20
“The Mansfield Fellowship Program has been instrumental to enhancing my understanding of Japan’s approach to the civilian use of nuclear material and energy. During the Fellowship Program, I had the opportunity to complete professional placements within Central Japanese government offices, a local government office, a private sector company, research institutions, a non-profit organization, and the National Diet to learn about each organization’s role in ensuring the safe and secure use of nuclear material. Working side-by-side with Japanese counterparts as well as participating in numerous field inspections and site visits allowed me to gain a comprehensive understanding of the Japanese system and compare and contrast the American and Japanese nuclear regulatory approaches, thus enabling me to provide informed advice to enhance nuclear safety in the United States and Japan. The Fellowship also offered an invaluable opportunity to understand the technical, cultural, and economic impacts of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. The lessons learned from the accident will directly influence nuclear safety in the United States.
Most importantly, developing a professional network of contacts within Japan will significantly enhance my ability to contribute to communication between the two nations on issues related to nuclear energy regulation and research. As the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s Fukushima Project Engineer, the knowledge gained and relationships developed during the Mansfield Fellowship Program will be immensely helpful in my job.”
– Mahmoud Jardaneh, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, MFP No. 20
“The Mansfield Fellowship prepared me like no other professional experience to support and contribute to the U.S.-Japan alliance. I could not have imagined a more meaningful and beneficial year leading up to my current duties in charge of the largest U.S. naval installation in Japan. Working alongside Japanese colleagues in the defense and foreign ministries, the Diet, and at the prefectural level, I gained insights and understanding that far surpassed what I had previously attained while stationed in Japan multiple times. As unique as it was to be immersed inside another government, it was the total package — including language and cultural training, friendships, networking opportunities, and unparalleled access to Japan’s present and future leaders — that made for an extraordinary, life-enhancing twelve months.”
– Jeffrey Kim, U.S. Navy, MFP No. 20
“As a Mansfield Fellow, I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn firsthand about the current environment for healthcare technology development, regulation, and utilization in Japan. By working directly with my counterparts in the Japanese agencies responsible for policy development and implementation in these areas, I gained a greater understanding of the Japanese regulatory process and of the unique opportunities and challenges affecting the domestic healthcare field. In addition, I benefited from being able to work more closely with non-government stakeholders and learn from their experiences and perspectives. As a result of my time as a Fellow, I feel much better prepared not only to continue my work protecting and promoting public health in the United States, but also to identify and contribute to future U.S.-Japanese collaborations intended to improve access to promising medical technology in both countries.”
– Kenneth Cavanaugh, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, MFP No. 21
“This Fellowship immensely strengthened my ability to contribute to enhancing U.S.-Japan cooperation in the areas that I work on. Thanks to this Fellowship, I had the unique opportunity to work inside the Japanese government and to experience its policymaking process firsthand. Additionally, the Fellowship helped me gain a much more well-rounded view of how my area of expertise fits into the broader strategic context of the Japanese government and Japanese society more generally. I absolutely expect to leverage this understanding and the many contacts that I have made over course of this Fellowship in my future work. Without a doubt, this Fellowship has been one of the most beneficial professional experiences of my career.”
– Sean Wilson, U.S. Department of State, MFP No. 21
“The Mansfield Fellowship Program offers Fellows a unique opportunity to experience, observe and participate in a way that no other program or experience can offer. For example, participating in a sub-committee meeting with the Diet member I was placed with, I watched as ministry officials and Diet members discussed and debated key strategic points and issues. No other program allows that kind of access to the policy formulation process. By experiencing that meeting, and seeing how the ministries interact with the Diet, I feel I am much better prepared to effectively navigate successful bilateral relationships between my home agency and our Japanese counterparts. I feel empowered to make a difference.”
– Michael Fletcher, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, MFP No. 21
“My Mansfield Fellowship experience has given me the tools and the knowledge required to continue my future career as a Foreign Area Officer in the United States Air Force. I now have the sureness to speak smartly about Japan’s Ministry of Defense and Defense Forces. I also have a confident understanding of the culture, language, and identity of Japan. The fellowship has provided an incredibly rare and unique opportunity to examine deep into the every-day mechanisms of the Government of Japan. My experiences will continue to benefit me well beyond my career in the Air Force.”
– Michael Luke Deckard, U.S. Air Force, MFP No. 22
“My time in Japan as a Mansfield Fellow was one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences of my life. Working in the Japanese government improved my understanding of how Japanese politics works. Having placements in institutions outside the Japanese government expanded my view of the Japanese business culture. The extracurricular activities provided by the foundation rounded out the overall experience and provided cultural exposure that I would not have been privy to otherwise. As a member of the 22nd class of Mansfield Fellows, the opportunities afforded to me surpassed my wildest expectations. I am truly humbled to have been a part of an experience that expanded my understanding of the Japanese government, people, and culture. I am excited to use my experience to strengthen the bilateral relationship between United States and Japan in the future. The entire fellowship is a worthwhile experience I am thankful to have been a part of!”
– Ian Hurdle, U.S. Air Force, MFP No. 22
“The Mansfield Fellowship Program is a unique program which provides invaluable personal and professional experiences. During the Fellowship, I had the opportunity to work alongside Japanese colleagues in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defense, Japan Coast Guard, and the National Diet. The placements allowed me to gain insights and in-depth understanding of the policy-making and inter-agency coordination process within the Government of Japan, as well as the National Diet’s relationship with the Japanese government ministries and agencies. Most importantly, I was able to establish a network of professional relationships which will significantly enhance my ability to help promote the U.S.-Japan bilateral relationship.”
– Patricia Sloss, U.S. Department of Defense, MFP No. 22
“My experience as a Mansfield Fellow in the 23rd Class was highly valuable both professionally and personally. I was the first representative from the National Weather Service (NWS) to join the Fellowship, so many of my placement agencies knew little about the program. Half of my year was with the Japan Meteorology Agency (JMA), and I feel my work there materially changed the relationship between JMA and the NWS, bringing our agencies closer together. My undertaking at JMA accelerated the collaboration between NWS and JMA’s International Aviation programs, enhancing aviation safety across Western Pacific international airspace. I also joined the Tokyo Typhoon Center and strived to enhance their typhoon forecast procedures. Personally, I was immersed in the Japanese culture and language, all the while expanding my worldview. I strongly believe this unique experience has allowed me to build stronger and deeper relationships with my Japanese and American counterparts, and my friends. I highly recommend the Mansfield Fellowship for those willing to push their limits professionally, culturally, and personally.”
– Ian Morrison, National Weather Service, National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, MFP No. 23
“The Fellowship provided a truly unique experience to work in multiple Japanese government and industry organizations, allowing me to gain a comprehensive context for nuclear power in Japan. I deepened my understanding of Japan’s revised regulatory approaches, the government and industry’s recovery efforts associated with Fukushima Dai-ichi, efforts to promote risk-informed decision-making, prefectural government’s unique role in nuclear decision-making, and the national nuclear energy policy. Through direct interactions with government officials, industry experts, and members of the public, I gained a thorough appreciation of the current challenges regarding the use of civilian nuclear technology in Japan.
