There’s something quietly powerful about Okinawa, an island where vibrant food, community connection, and mindful living come together in daily life. As a Fulbright Lecturer spending several months here, I’ve had the chance not only…
Recent Posts
Culinary Diplomacy Presentation and Dinner, Okinawa, Japan
On May 30, 2025, we had the honor of presenting at the University of the Ryukyus on culinary diplomacy and Okinawa, specificially how Okinawan cuisine serves as a lens for understanding regional identity, international dialogue,…
Teaching at the University of the Ryukyus, Okinawa, Japan
This spring and summer, I have the incredible opportunity to teach at the University of the Ryukyus in Okinawa, Japan, as part of my Fulbright experience. I’m currently teaching three courses that focus on American…
Packaging and Place: Omiyage as Gastrodiplomacy, Presentation
I was graciously hosted (by Keri :)) to give an engaging talk on “Packaging and Place: Omiyage as Gastrodiplomacy,” as part of the NTU Food Studies Seminar series. Drawing on my current research as a…
Fulbright Mid-Year Conference, 2024-2025
It was wonderful to reunite with fellow Fulbright Lecturers at the 2024 Mid-Year Conference in Osaka! We reflected on our first six months of teaching and living in Japan, sharing insights to make the most…
Exploring Kyoto, Japan spring 2025
Kyoto is such a special traditional city in Japan. Beautiful in every way! Highlights from our time: Fushimi Inari Torii Gates, Arashiyama Bamboo forests, Gion district, shrines and temples, tofu, bakeries, and strawberries. We walked…
Presentation for Tokyo Sustainability Research Seminar: Singapore and Japan Alternative Protein
We were delighted to give a presentation for the Sustainability Research Open Seminar 3: Food and Agriculture in the World, hosted by the West Tokyo Joint Center for Sustainability Research and Implementation on March 15,…
Nagoya City Half Marathon 2025
One of the best ways to explore a new city is on foot—so why not run it? 😊 On March 9, 2025, we laced up for the Nagoya City Half Marathon, kicking off at Vantelin…
A Taste of Japan: Fresh, Flavorful, and Full of Tradition
Japan’s cuisine is a celebration of seasonality, simplicity, and balance. From vibrant market-fresh vegetables to carefully crafted bento boxes, every bite reflects a deep-rooted respect for ingredients. And when the New Year arrives, the food…
Exploring Tokyo’s Historic Landmarks: Tokyo Station and the Imperial Palace
Tokyo is a city where history and modernity blend, and nowhere is this more evident than in its iconic landmarks. On a recent visit with colleagues from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, we explored…