GFBNEC Names Kurt Ikeda as Director of Programs and Engagement

Go For Broke National Education Center Welcomes New Director

The Go for Broke National Education Center has announced the appointment of a new Director of Programs and Engagement. The Center, dedicated to preserving the legacy of Japanese American World War II veterans, continues to expand its educational outreach.

about Go For Broke National Education Center

Based in Los Angeles,California,the Go For Broke National Education Center is a non-profit association devoted to telling the stories of Japanese american soldiers who fought valiantly during World War II. Through compelling exhibitions, educational programs, and community engagement, the center ensures these stories of courage and patriotism are remembered for generations to come.

The Go For Broke National Education Center (GFBNEC) is excited to welcome Kurt T. Ikeda as its new Director of Programs and Engagement. Ikeda’s appointment, announced on December 16th, marks a significant step forward for the organization as it continues to fulfill its mission.

Ikeda brings a wealth of experience in program advancement, community engagement, and education to this pivotal role. His expertise will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to GFBNEC.

A passionate advocate for community empowerment, ikeda boasts over seven years of experience driving impactful initiatives. His expertise spans program leadership, strategic partnerships, and team management across diverse settings, including non-profit organizations and cherished cultural heritage sites.

Ikeda’s commitment to social justice is deeply rooted in his experience serving marginalized communities in Los Angeles. He has worn many hats in this pursuit, working as both a dedicated high school teacher and a LAUSD school board fellow.

This individual boasts a remarkably diverse background, encompassing every aspect of program development.Their expertise spans organizational leadership, fostering community partnerships in both bustling urban centers and tranquil rural communities. Their skills also extend to securing grants and orchestrating large-scale pilgrimages to World War II War Relocation Authority camps.

GFBNEC Welcomes New Director of Programming and Public Engagement

The [Organization Name] is thrilled to announce the appointment of [Ikeda’s Full Name] as its new Director of Programming and Public Engagement. In this crucial role, [He/She/They] will be instrumental in guiding the organization’s future growth and ensuring its long-term sustainability. [Ikeda’s Full Name] brings a wealth of experience and a passion for connecting with diverse communities to this new position. [He/She/They] will be responsible for forging strong relationships with key stakeholders and developing innovative and engaging programs, exhibitions, and initiatives that will broaden the organization’s reach and impact. “[Quote about Ikeda’s vision for the organization and excitement about the role]” The Japanese American National Museum (JANM) recently announced the recipient of its prestigious 2023 Art Award. The honor went to acclaimed artist and activist, Emily Ikeda. Ikeda’s powerful work will be instrumental in furthering the ongoing efforts of the Go For Broke National Education Center (GFBNEC). This vital organization is dedicated to shedding light on the often-overlooked history of Japanese American soldiers who bravely served during World War II. Through her art, Ikeda seeks to amplify the voices of these veterans and illuminate the significance of their wartime experiences. This contribution is particularly timely,as their stories hold invaluable lessons for contemporary discussions on social justice,civil liberties,and the very foundations of democracy. “Ikeda’s work will contribute to GFBNEC’s ongoing efforts‍ to raise awareness about the legacy of Japanese American World War II soldiers and their enduring relevance in contemporary discussions surrounding‍ social justice,civil liberties,and democracy.” Ikeda’s selection as the recipient of the JANM Art Award is a testament to the power of art to bridge generations and inspire meaningful dialog. Her work ensures that the sacrifices and contributions of Japanese American veterans remain etched in our collective memory, guiding us as we strive for a more just and equitable future. Ken Ikeda brings a wealth of experience to his role at GFBNEC, having dedicated his career to preserving history and promoting intercultural understanding. His impressive resume includes leadership positions at prominent institutions across the country. Ikeda’s passion for education and historical interpretation is evident in his previous work with the National Park Service at the Minidoka National Historic Site in Idaho. There, he served both as Chief of Interpretation and Education and as an Education Specialist, sharing the site’s poignant history with visitors. His commitment to fostering understanding between cultures is further demonstrated by his work as Education Manager for the Japanese American Museum of Oregon in Portland. He also lent his leadership to the OCA-Asian Pacific American Advocates, Greater Los Angeles Chapter, serving as their Interim Executive director. Beyond his museum and advocacy work, Ikeda has also made a difference in the lives of young people. He served as both an English teacher and poetry coach at Camino Nuevo High School in Los Angeles, inspiring students through the power of language. A product of Torrance, California, Ikeda is a Shin-Nisei— a second-generation Japanese American—invested in forging equitable public programs. His academic journey reflects this dedication, culminating in a master’s degree in urban education from Loyola Marymount University. This advanced degree focused on educational policy and governance, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex systems and advocate for change. Ikeda’s undergraduate years at UCLA saw him delve into the intricacies of language with a bachelor of arts degree in applied linguistics. This academic pursuit, further enriched by a minor in education studies, honed his understanding of dialogue and its vital role in fostering inclusivity and understanding. His commitment to social justice, wellness, and cultural heritage aligns seamlessly with the mission of GFBNEC. Ikeda is passionate about crafting public programs that not only address pressing societal issues but also uplift and empower communities.

New Leadership at Go For Broke national Education Center

The Go For Broke National Education Center announced the arrival of a new leader, ready to champion its mission of remembrance, education, and inspiration. Kelly Ikeda joins the organization, bringing a dedication to its core values. “I am honored to be joining Go for Broke National Education Center,” Ikeda said. “I aim to embody the Go for Broke spirit of my great uncle-in-law, and ‘go all in’ to uplift the excellent educational and community-based programming this organization has to offer. I am looking forward to working closely with Mitch, the dedicated staff, and the Torchbearers to help ignite innovation and build wider engagement of our mission to remember, educate, and inspire.”

New Leadership for a Legacy of Valor

the Go For Broke National Education Center (GFBNEC) has announced the appointment of Kurt Ikeda to a key leadership position. The organization, dedicated to preserving the stories of Japanese American wartime experience, is thrilled to welcome Ikeda’s expertise and dedication. Dr. Mitchell T. Maki, GFBNEC’s president and CEO, expressed his excitement regarding Ikeda’s appointment. “Kurt’s passion and experience will be a strong addition to our organization’s team,” he stated. This appointment comes at a pivotal time for GFBNEC. The organization is currently constructing the Go For broke Plaza, a permanent home and interactive space designed to share the stories of democracy, valor, and equality with generations to come. “With the building of the Go for Broke Plaza, we are excited to have a permanent home and interactive space as we bring our story of democracy, valor and equality to the next generations through robust programs, partnerships, and community collaborations,” said Dr. Maki.

The Legacy of Valor: Honoring the Japanese American Soldiers of World War II

The go For Broke National Education Center stands as a powerful testament to the courage and sacrifice of Japanese American soldiers during World War II. Through compelling exhibits and educational programs, the Center tells the story of these brave individuals who fought for their country despite facing discrimination and prejudice. During World War II, over 33,000 Japanese Americans, many of whom were unjustly incarcerated in internment camps, volunteered to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. They bravely fought in Europe and the Pacific, earning countless decorations for their valor and dedication. The Center’s name, “Go For Broke,” comes from the motto of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a segregated unit composed primarily of Japanese Americans. this unit became one of the most decorated units in U.S. military history. The Go For Broke National Education Center strives to preserve the legacy of these remarkable soldiers and to educate future generations about the importance of patriotism,resilience,and fighting against injustice.

Sharing the Legacy of Valor: GFBNEC Honors Japanese American WWII Veterans

Founded in 1989, GFBNEC is a non-profit organization on a vital mission: to keep the stories of Japanese American veterans of World War II alive for generations to come. Operating as a 501(c)(3), GFBNEC is dedicated to educating the public about the heroism and sacrifices these brave individuals made in service to their country.

GFBNEC believes in the power of these veterans’ legacies to inspire. By highlighting the core values they embodied — courage,sacrifice,equality,humility,and patriotism — they hope to ignite a spark in younger generations.

Preserving History: The work of GFBNEC

Nestled in the heart of downtown Little Tokyo, the Go For Broke Monument stands as a powerful testament to the bravery and sacrifice of Japanese American soldiers during World War II. The monument, diligently maintained by the Go For Broke National Education Center (GFBNEC), serves as a poignant reminder of this often-overlooked chapter in American history. GFBNEC’s commitment to preserving this legacy extends far beyond the monument itself. The organization offers a wealth of resources, including a captivating interactive exhibition titled “Defining Courage.” GFBNEC tirelessly collects and shares oral histories and archives, providing invaluable firsthand accounts of the Japanese American experience during the war. Their educational programs and traveling exhibits bring this history to life for diverse audiences, ensuring that these stories continue to be told and remembered. Through these multifaceted initiatives, GFBNEC plays a vital role in honoring the past and shaping a more inclusive future.

The “Go For Broke” Spirit: Remembering the 442nd Regimental Combat Team

The story of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team is one of unwavering courage and determination in the face of adversity. This segregated Army unit, comprised of Japanese Americans from Hawaii and the mainland, carried the motto “Go for Broke.” This forceful phrase, borrowed from Hawaiian slang, meant “shooting the works”—risking everything for a significant victory. It perfectly encapsulated the spirit of these soldiers who bravely fought on the battlefields of World War II, even while facing prejudice and discrimination back home. The 442nd Regimental Combat Team’s dedication and sacrifices were remarkable, highlighting the very meaning of “going for broke.”

Wont to learn more about the amazing work of GFBNEC? Head over to goforbroke.org for all the details.

Want to learn more about the incredible work of GFBNEC? Head over to goforbroke.org for all the details.

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**Key Themes:**



* **Heroes and History:** The core theme focuses on honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Japanese American soldiers who served in WWII despite facing discrimination and internment.

* **Legacy Preservation:** GFBNEC is dedicated to preserving these veterans’ stories through exhibits, education programs, and community engagement.

* **New Leadership and Growth:** GFBNEC is actively growing, with new leadership appointments to executive roles (Ken Ikeda and Kelly ikeda), and the construction of a permanent facility, the Go For Broke Plaza.

* **Awards and Recognition:** The work of GFBNEC and its connection to Japanese American artists like Emily Ikeda is being recognized through prestigious awards.



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