JCE

Japan Culture Exchange was founded in 2002 to meet the demand for Japanese language instruction by North Carolina residents. Prior to the founding of Japan Culture Exchange, many young students desired to study Japanese, however, there were few middle and high schools offering Japanese language instruction.

Additionally, the number of Japanese families moving into the Triangle area increased causing a greater need for ESL capable tutors to meet the language instruction needs of their children.

As a result of these two factors, Japan Culture Exchange was founded.

Our Founders and Officers:

Natsuko Suwa : President

Ms. Suwa received her Bachelor of Arts in Japanese Language Education from Kyorin University in Tokyo in 1998. Born in Tokyo, Japan, Ms. Suwa relocated to the United States in 1999. She has been teaching Japanese Language classes since 1999. Ms. Suwa presented a paper in America on Japanese Language topics. Ms. Suwa specializes in Japanese Language and Culture Education.


Brian Exelbierd : Vice President

Mr. Exelbierd is a seasoned professional and executive with over 15 years of experience in technology and education related industries. Mr. Exelbierd served as a director of Educational Growth Across Oceans, a non-profit that sponsored the Japanese culture-oriented festival, Animazement. Mr. Exelbierd is responsible for company operations and has provided English Language services. Mr. Exelbierd was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and has earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education from North Carolina State University and a Masters in Information Systems and Technology Management from the University of Delaware.