JSSDT Staff

Dave Tuites

President

Dave Tuites, the President of the Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana, has strong experience in nonprofit management and lived in Japan for six years. He served as the Director of Development at La Jolla Country Day School prior to assuming his duties with the Japan Society. He holds a Master’s degree from Duke University and has over 27 years of experience as an educator, serving as a teacher, coach, and administrator in North Carolina, Arizona, Japan, and California. His strong background in nonprofit management and international culture are now helping the Japan Society to build important programs in the community that, in turn, bring new business, educational, and cultural connections and opportunities to the Society. He has utilized his leadership skills to effectively manage all Japan Society programs and activities since 2005 and has created an efficient and effective organization with professionalism and energy.

Hometown: Rochester, NY
Japan Experience: Lived in Shimane Prefecture for 6 years, 5 years in the JET Programme
Education: Duke University (Master’s) and St. Lawrence University (Bachelor’s)

Erika Shiraishi

 
Associate Director

Highly motivated, energetic Erika came to the JSSDT in 2009 as a volunteer.  She successfully coordinated the 2011 & 2012 Beer & Sake Festivals.  She came on board as the Program Coordinator in March, 2015 and was promoted to Associate Director in 2017.