On Thursday, June 5, 2025, we hosted our signature JAS-NET (Japan-America Society Networking) gathering at the Nexus Seattle Sky Lounge for an inspiring and lively summer mixer. With perfectly sunny weather and sweeping views of downtown Seattle, the evening provided the ideal backdrop for meaningful conversations, professional networking, and a celebration of Women in STEM.
More than 40 guests attended the event, including students, young professionals, and seasoned leaders from across generations and industries. As guests arrived, they were welcomed with a signature cocktail and mocktail created by Marie Yoshimizu: “PLUM INTENDED,” a refreshing Japanese twist on a spritz, and “MIDORI DALY,” a mocktail inspired by the John Daly/Arnold Palmer combination, featuring Seedlip Notas de Agave and Sugimoto Tea Company’s Enrich Sencha. These drinks set a warm and festive tone before the evening’s program began.
The speaker session featured two inspiring professionals: Marie Yoshimizu, aerospace systems engineer at Blue Origin and mixologist at InterContinental Bellevue, and Alexis Fujinari, Flow Cytometry Manager at Fred Hutch Cancer Center. Both speakers shared powerful personal stories—Marie spoke about how she built her aerospace engineering career after arriving in the U.S. as an international student from Japan, while Alexis reflected on how her Japanese American heritage helped shape her fulfilling path in clinical laboratory science. Their talks were followed by a lively and engaging Q&A session with the audience.
After the speaker session, Marie returned to the spotlight for a high-energy mixology demonstration. In a fast-paced speed round, she crafted six original cocktails, each inspired by a member of the historic NS-31 all-women spaceflight crew. Her presentation was not only entertaining but also a creative tribute to trailblazing women in science and exploration.
With delicious drinks, light bites, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the evening was filled with inspiration and community. Thank you to everyone who joined us—and a special thank you to Marie and Alexis for generously sharing your stories, talents, and energy. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Cheryl Hou for generously sponsoring this beautiful venue, and to Julia Hurley from Sugimoto Tea Company for donating the flavorful sencha used in Marie’s mocktail.
We look forward to seeing you at our next event(s)!
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