Committee Members

Kumi Alderman

Executive Director, Asian Culture Center of Tennessee

Kumi Alderman, worked as a Tour Conductor based in Tokyo, traveling the world. Through her global experiences, she gained a deep appreciation for diverse belief systems, arts, and lifestyles—realizing that beneath all differences, people share the same humanity.

For more than a decade, Kumi has dedicated herself to organizing the Knox Asian Festival—ranked #1 Best Festival in Tennessee in 2024 by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Through the festival, she has brought the richness of traditional Asian arts and culture to East Tennessee. Her passion lies in fostering mutual understanding, inspiring younger generations, and building a welcoming environment through cultural appreciation.

Kumi’s leadership and cultural contributions have been widely recognized. On August 1, 2024, she received the Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation for her outstanding efforts in promoting mutual understanding between Japan and the United States. In 2025, she was honored with the Community Leadership Award by the U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce (USPAACC) Southeast Region as the sole leader selected in the Southeast.

She was also invited to participate in Leadership Knoxville 2024, the program’s largest class ever, where she strengthened her leadership skills and built meaningful connections with community leaders.

Kumi is also committed to preserving the history of the Asian community in East Tennessee, ensuring that the stories, contributions, and cultural heritage of Asian Americans in the region are recognized and remembered for future generations.

Christeen Silavong

Board Member/Co-Founder

Sifu Leroy

Board Member/Co-Founder

Leroy Kautz, a Sifu (Kung Fu teacher) under Great Grand Master CHAN PUI

After studying various styles of Martial Arts since the early 1970s, Leroy was introduced to the WAH LUM system in 1987, training for nearly five years as a professional student in Tampa, FL. He then continued his training under the strict guidance of Grand Master CHAN PUI at the Wah Lum Temple in Orlando, FL.

Leroy was granted the opportunity, privilege, and honor to open his own school and propagate this system, and in August of 1994, Leroy began establishing the Tennessee-based Wah Lum School in Knoxville.

Dave Alderman

Board Member/Co-Founder

Dave Alderman works as a lead auditor at UL DQS Inc. He participated in founding Asian Culture Center of Tennessee (ACCTN) and assisted in organizing the Knoxville Asian Festival. Dave frequently travels to Asia to support ACCTN’s mission. Dave is an avid runner and competes in local and national marathons.

Mahagi LaCure

Board Member

Mahagi was born and raised in Toyama, Japan, a city known for the majestic Japan Alps and its exceptional seafood brought in from the Japan Sea. After graduating from Kobe Women’s College with a major in English, she apprenticed with a master weaver in Kyoto. Around that time, she met her future husband, Jon. Upon moving to the United States, Mahagi became a self-employed weaver, creating hand-dyed and handwoven wall rugs that she sold through craft galleries and fairs.

In 1991, Mahagi and her family moved to Knoxville, Tennessee, when her husband accepted a position teaching Japanese literature at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This transition opened the door for her own teaching career. She earned an M.S. in Foreign Language Education from UTK and went on to teach Japanese for 30 years, offering courses from beginner to advanced levels.

After retiring from the university, Mahagi embraced a new challenge in 2023: designing and teaching community Japanese classes. She is grateful for the deep interest the local community shows in Japan and its culture, and she feels fortunate to continue fostering mutual understanding and respect through language learning and cultural exploration.

While her university teaching emphasized organization and engagement—qualities frequently reflected in student evaluations as “challenging, but fun”—Mahagi recognizes that adult learners bring different backgrounds, schedules, and needs. She continues to refine her approach, always seeking the right balance of encouragement and support, and improving her classes through reflection after every session.

Beyond the classroom, Mahagi is actively involved in outreach programs with the Asian Culture Center. She also coordinates Shamisen Knoxville, a group dedicated to sharing and celebrating the traditional Japanese banjo-like instrument.

Lieutenant General Lawrence D. Nicholson

USMC, Retired
Volunteer Security Manager

Lieutenant General Nicholson was born in Toronto, Canada, and is a 1979 graduate of the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. He holds an MS degree from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. From 1980-1982, Lieutenant General Nicholson served as a Platoon and Company Commander in the 3d Battalion, 1st Marines at Camp Pendleton, California. From 1982-1985 he was assigned to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, where he served as a Series and Company Commander.

Following Amphibious Warfare School at Quantico, Virginia in 1986, Lieutenant General Nicholson served as a Platoon Commander at Officers Candidate School until joining 3/7 in the fall of 1986. He then served as a Rifle Company Commander for Lima 3/7 and subsequently Delta Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Marines until May of 1990. From June 1990 to July 1993, Lieutenant General Nicholson served as a Company Officer and Instructor at the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Following completion of the US Army Command and General Staff College in 1994, he was assigned to the Middle East as a United Nations Observer for UNTSO Palestine. In 1995, he reported to Camp Lejeune, North Carolina as the Executive Officer of the Wolfpack, 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion.

In 1997, Lieutenant General Nicholson assumed the duties as the 2d Marine Division, G-3 Operations Officer until taking Command of the WARLORDS of 2d Battalion, 2d Marines in 1999. Following a deployment to the Balkans with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, he was re-assigned in 2001, as the Executive Officer of the 2d Marine Regiment. Upon graduation from the NATO Defense College in Rome, Italy in 2002, he was assigned to NATO HQ in Brussels, Belgium where he served as the Ground Forces Planner for the U.S. Military Delegation to NATO. In July 2004, Lieutenant General Nicholson reported to the 1st Marine Division HQ at Camp Blue Diamond, Ramadi, Iraq, where he served as the Division G-3. In July of 2005, he assumed command of the 5th Marine Regiment and deployed with them to Fallujah, Iraq in 2006.

As a General Officer, he has served as the Deputy Commanding General for Marine Corps Combat Development Command at Quantico; the Commanding General of the 2d Marine Expeditionary Brigade in Helmand Province Afghanistan; the Senior Military Assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense in Washington, DC; the Operations Officer for the ISAF Joint Command in Kabul, Afghanistan; the Commanding General of the legendary 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton, California; and the Commanding General of the III Marine Expeditionary Force in Japan and the Pacific region.

Lt Gen Nicholson now calls Knoxville Tennessee home, is active in local Veterans affairs organizations, serves on the advisory board for the Spirit of America, Still Serving Inc, and is a Distinguished Visiting Fellow for the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, and the Asia-Pacific Institutes’ Military Statesman’s Forum. He has been married to Deborah for 41 years and has 3 sons, 2 on Active-duty USMC, and 9 grandchildren that he and Debbie enjoy spoiling at every opportunity.

Naoko Podhorszki

Executive Director Assistant

Naoko Podhorszki was born and raised in Fukuoka, Japan.

Naoko’s first cultural encounter came through American music and movies, an experience that sparked a lifelong interest in learning English and exploring different cultures. That curiosity eventually led her to study abroad in the United States and later work in Singapore, gaining valuable cross-cultural experiences along the way.

Having lived and worked in Japan, the U.S., and Singapore, Naoko has developed a deep appreciation for the richness of cultural diversity and the importance of mutual respect and understanding. Drawing from these global experiences, she brings a thoughtful and inclusive approach to connecting communities and sharing the beauty of Japanese culture here in Tennessee.

It is her great pleasure to share and celebrate Japan’s traditions, values, and spirit with all who wish to learn, experience, and embrace cultural exchange.

Aurora Silavong

Director Assistant

Dr. Javiette Samuel

Advisor

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Diversity and Engagement
Director of Community Engagement and Outreach

Professor Eric Franklin Amarante

Board Advisor

Eric Franklin Amarante is a professor of law at the University of Tennessee College of Law, where he focuses on nonprofit and small business law. Eric received his J.D. from Cornell Law School and his B.A. from the University of Texas.

Dr. David Gras

Board Advisor

Dr. David Gras holds a PhD in Entrepreneurship from Syracuse University, an MS in Marketing from Clemson University, and a BA in Management from Texas A&M University. His research focuses on the antecedents of business performance and competitive advantage. Within these areas, Dr. Gras explores the financial impacts of corporate social responsibility, new venture diversification, strategic decisions, and entrepreneurial characteristics. Dr. Gras has taught numerous classes in entrepreneurship (e.g. introduction to entrepreneurship; opportunity recognition; values-centered entrepreneurship) and strategic management at the University of Connecticut, Syracuse University, and Texas Christian University.

Rachel Rui

Dr. Rachel Rui serves as Director of Global Research, Innovation, and Partnerships (GRIP) at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. In this role, she collaborates closely with campus partners to develop and implement innovative programs that advance global learning, research, and service opportunities.

Rachel came to the University of Tennessee as an international student, earning both her Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in Communication and Information from UT. She became involved with the Knoxville Asian Festival during its second year and has since been a dedicated advocate and spokesperson for the event. Rachel played a central role in the festival’s early fundraising and marketing efforts, helping to support its growth and long-term success.

Passionate about culture and cross-cultural connection, Rachel is deeply committed to fostering a welcoming community by bringing people together on a personal level.

Jula Connatser

Thailand Leader

Jula Connatser is a leader of One Community Services, Inc. Her company is a certified minority and women-owned business enterprise in Tennessee (MWBE).

In her own words, “Living outside of Thailand is keeping us away from our cultural activities with friends and families. The Knox Asian Festival brought Asian people in town together. Now we have the opportunity to bring back our fun cultural environment. At least once a year we can wear traditional outfits, sing, dance, and share our cultural wisdom at the festival with everyone in the Knoxville community.”

Arpakorn (Tom) Walker

Thailand Leader

“I am a personal chef, former market executive, and all-around food lover. After years of being inspired by the food I grew up with in Thailand and all the flavors I encountered traveling abroad for work and play, I fully immersed myself in the culinary world. I received a culinary diploma from the Institute of Culinary Education and set out to create, cook, explore, and experience all things culinary.

My culinary experiences have ranged from recipe testing, sushi making, teaching cooking classes, and catering chef in FL, NYC, and Kansas City. My ethnic background has helped me develop my own sense of flavor when it comes to creating unique and artistic food. I’ve been lucky enough to have traveled far and wide in North America and Asia. My travels have had a huge influence on my palette, educating and inspiring me to experiment with diverse flavors and ingredients. Most importantly, I love to have fun with my menus and create a memorable experience that not only tastes great but is also uniquely presented.”

Amudha Vaz

Indian Leader

Amudha Vaz is a passionate and creative Pre-K teacher who aims to foster curiosity in children through various fun activities. With her experience as an ESL teacher, she has a knack for teaching and engaging with children of all ages. As an active member of the Knox Asian Festival since 2014, she enjoys sharing her heritage and learning about other cultures. Amudha also loves cooking and teaching Indian cuisine to others. In her free time, she loves playing with her furry friends Prince and Lucie, traveling with her family, and meeting new people.

Tristina Nguyen Weast

Vietnam Leader

I’m currently a MS/HS teacher aide at Christian Academy of Knoxville. I can’t wait to be a part of the Asian Festival and to share the Vietnamese culture and traditions with you. Thank you!

Shirley Goh Elkins

Singapore Leader

Shirley Goh Elkins is a passionate, faith-driven individual with a heart for family, missions, and creativity. Born and raised in Singapore, she graduated with second class Honors from Nanyang Technological University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business. Following graduation, she built a successful 10-year career as a financial services consultant, where she honed her skills in client relations, financial planning, and strategic advising.

After relocating to the United States, Shirley embraced a new chapter in life — that of a devoted stay-at-home mom. She now treasures her time raising her children while actively volunteering at her local church community, including Knoxville Chinese Christian Church.

Shirley’s life is marked by a love for both travel and purpose-driven service. She has explored diverse cultures across Malaysia (Johor Bahru, Kuala Lumpur and Penang), Indonesia (Lake Toba and Pattaya), Japan (Tokyo and Osaka), Thailand (Bangkok, Chiangmai and Phuket), Taiwan (Taipei, Taichung, Hualien), and Australia (Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney). Her deep faith and compassion have also led her to serve on mission trips to Indonesia, Taiwan, and India, partnering with her church to bring hope and care to communities in need.

In her free time, Shirley enjoys painting, cooking, and discovering delicious cuisines. She is also an avid basketball fan and finds joy in hiking to scenic waterfalls with her family. Her life reflects a beautiful blend of adventure, service, and creativity — all anchored by her faith and love for others.

Michael Rose
Phillipine’s Leader

Michael Rose is a Marine, an Eastern Band Cherokee Indian, a Professional Photographer and has been married to a Filipina since 2007. Michael was honored to be appointed President of the Philippine American Association of East Tennessee on May 23rd. 2023.

A Professional Photographer since 1987 Michael has years of experience documenting special events and become specialized in Family Portrait and Real Estate Photography. If interested contact Michael Rose Cinematography.

Having participated in the American Indian Culture all his life Michael has been Fancy Dancer, a Traditional Singer, founder and lead singer of the Cedartree Singers and performed all over America and Europe. Michael understands the personal value of knowing your origins and culture and is encouraging all Filipino’s in our community to come together, participate, and take pride in their shared rich living culture.

PAAETInc. was established in 1984 and has served the East Tennessee Filipino Community for over 40 years, bringing people together by hosting picnics, an Annual Christmas Party and other unique gatherings and raising funds and support for those in need in the Philippines through the years.

The People of the Philippines have grown to become the largest Asian demographic in East Tennessee, the people are colorful, friendly and joyful and the public is always encouraged to participate. We hope you will stop by our booth at the Knox Asian Festival, we promise you will enjoy The Culture of the Philippines – Mabuhay.

Gina Wilson

Knoxville Area Korean Association President

“My name is Gina Wilson I was born in South Korea. I graduated from Young San Technical High School in 1983 and worked at Samsung as a Semiconductor. Came to the USA in the 80s and worked at AT&T as a  technician and manager. Retired from AT&T as an Engineer in 2014

I am amazed to see the sight of beautiful Smokey areas every day all-around Knoxville Area. It is healing itself just be able to have a chance to be in it.

I started my involvement with the Knoxville Area Korean Association in 2019. I believe as a Korean-American, it is my obligation to volunteer for the communities.

The first time I was volunteering was at the ALS Clinic in Emory Clinic and I stayed with them for almost 10 years. I realized that so many of us need someone to show them we care for them and love them to find comfort that will be a positive motivation in our everyday lives.

I am proud to be in the United States, where we embrace different cultures and races. There are so many things we can learn and share with everyone of us because we all are from different cultures and country and has unique individuality. And doing so we will understand and accept our unique characters and build a strong connection among all of us in our communities.

I hope we will continue to construct a positive relationship over the years to come in our great smoky area communities.”

Dan Wang

Chinese Leader

Michael Smith

Chinese Leader

Michael Smith has produced the East Tennessee Chinese New Year Festival for the past 7 years. Held each February on the UTK campus, this event gives the audience the experience of new year celebrations in China. Michael is also the coach of the East Tennessee Wushu Team and East Tennessee Tai Chi team, has won 9 gold medals in martial arts competitions in China, and has been teaching Chinese martial arts to kids and adults in Knoxville for 12 years. For more information, visit him at the Knoxville Chinese Culture booth at our Festival!

Sam Liao

Event Host / Former President of Taiwanese Association of America East Tennessee Chapter (TAA-ET)

Mr. Liao is the former President of TAA-ET and the event host for Knoxville Asian Festival 2025. He was born and raised in Taiwan. He moved to Knoxville and served as an environmental scientist in the consultant company since 2008. His expertise is in air pollution control and wastewater treatment for industrial entities. As a road-trip enthusiast to explore North America, he completed an 11,000 miles journey beginning from Key West, FL to Prudhoe Bay, AK and back to Knoxville, TN in 23 days in 2018.

Azsha White

Inaugural Cultural Coordinator & Emcee

Azsha White is a dynamic force in the local entertainment industry and a passionate advocate for cultural diversity. With a career spanning acting, voice-over work, and hosting, Azsha captivates audiences with her versatility and professionalism.

Azsha’s engaging hosting roles on Amazon Live, Petsafe, and Kärcher, along with her memorable performances in TV shows, commercials, and new media projects, showcase her unique blend of talent and creativity.

In addition to her own remarkable talents, Azsha is the proud owner of three extraordinary animal talents: Finnegan, Annapurna, and Lancelot. These furry companions have made their mark in the industry, working for brands like Petsafe, Tractor Supply, Party City, Animal Planet and more. 

Beyond her work in entertainment, Azsha is deeply committed to community outreach, especially within the Asian community here in Knoxville. Her involvement in hosting  cultural festivals, such as the Knoxville Asian Festival reflect her dedication to fostering understanding and appreciation for diverse cultures.

Jade Connatser

High School Volunteer Leader and MC

Hello! I’m Jade Connatser, a proud Junior at Bearden High School with a vibrant heritage that colors my world – I’m half Thai and fully passionate about sharing my culture.

As a Thailand Cultural Speaker and Performer at the Knox Asian Festival, I’ve had the joy of bringing the beauty of Thai traditions to diverse audiences, extending my performances to the International Festival at UT, various schools international activities, and churches international programs. My love for culture is matched only by my dedication to the Bearden Swim and Dive Team, where I channel my energy and drive.

Since age of six, I love to be with the Knox Asian Festival, not just attending but actively contributing as a Thai dancer, emcee, and spokesperson. I’ve had the honor of promoting our vibrant festival across local television channels and shows, including channel 6, 8, 10, and Living East Tennessee show. My journey with Knox Asian is a testament to my commitment and love for my heritage and community. As we look forward to this year’s Knox Asian Festival, my heart is filled with excitement.

I can’t wait to see everyone again at the world’s fair site this year. Let’s make unforgettable memories together! See you there!

Marcia Cheng

High School Volunteer Leader

Marcia Cheng is a sophomore at Career Magnet Academy, the Chapter Secretary of the Mount Le Conte District in Scouts BSA, and a Taiwanese immigrant.

She has been attending the Asian Festival for seven years. Initially, she attended the festival just for fun, but her interest grew, and she started volunteering with the East Tennessee Taiwanese Association at their booth in 2019. After volunteering for four years, she was invited to work with a Korean vendor. This provided her with an employee’s perspective on how busy the Asian Festival can be.

This year, in 2024, she is excited to take on her new role as the “High School Volunteer Leader” and hopes to bring in many volunteers from her school and others!

Ari Kim

High School Volunteer Leader

Elena Wu

High School Volunteer Leader