The nonprofit Haddonfield Japan Exchange (HJE) is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
For two decades, the organization has fostered cross-cultural understanding through student exchanges between Haddonfield and the Japanese cities of Kasukabe and Sendai. Since its founding, the exchange has provided transformative global experiences to more than 300 students.
Established by retired 93-year-old Philadelphia educator Bill Brown, the exchange has operated on a bi-ennial model, sending students abroad one year and welcoming Japanese students to Haddonfield the next.
To commemorate its anniversary, the exchange recently hosted a Night of Sushi and Sake, where more than 80 guests sampled prepared dishes from chef Kenneth Sze, of Philadelphia’s acclaimed Tuna Bar, and participated in both silent and live auctions. The event raised $8,000 and will support student field trips, dinners and cultural events planned for later this summer.
“It’s hard to imagine that 20 years have gone by since I organized a small group of people who had expressed interest in Japan and in forming a student exchange program with Haddonfield and Japan,” Brown recalled. “During that time, Haddonfield students and groups of Japanese students have developed long-lasting friendships and developed international relations that have changed their lives.
“It is my deepest wish that this program will carry on, opening doors between Haddonfield and Japan for many generations to come.”
Eva Jacovini, an alumna of the program, is a senior at Penn State studying international relations and Japanese.
“The Haddonfield Japan Exchange has been one of the most meaningful and transformative experiences in my life,” she said. “It didn’t just introduce me to Japanese culture; it opened my eyes to the beauty of connection, empathy and understanding across cultures.”
Jacovini will return to the HJE this summer as an intern to help organize field trips and provide translation services.
Students in the HJE experience daily life abroad through home stays, school visits and cultural activities. Their experiences are designed to promote not only global awareness but also personal growth and leadership.
“Reaching over 300 students in 20 years represents more than a number, it reflects the deep relationships and global perspectives that have grown from this program,” noted Maggie Gammie, co-Director of the exchange and Haddonfield Memorial High history teacher.
“Our mission has always been to bring cultures together, and we are proud of the lasting impact this exchange has had on our community.”
This year’s group of exchange students will arrive on July 17 and stay through July 31.
