Makiko Murotani joined the Foundation in March 2024. She manages finances, office administration, and supports grant procedures. Prior to Joining USJF, she was an Office Manager at the National Association of Japan-America Societies (NAJAS) for over 18 years. 

 

She received her B.A. in Journalism/Communications from Elon University. After graduating, she worked as a cameraperson at the Washington Bureau of Tokyo Broadcasting System (TBS), where she covered various U.S. political news, including three presidential elections, and Japan related news. 

 

She was born and grew up in Wakayama, Japan, until she left her hometown to go to Chinzei Gakuin University (formerly known as Nagasaki Wesleyan Junior College) in Nagasaki.