About Us
Mark & Sharon Norlander
Directors
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We love Japanese students and are always amazed at what happens to both students and hosts during our program, as relationships are formed.
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We have been teachers for over 45 years. We have two daughters and three grandchildren. Sharon enjoys crafts and stamping. Mark enjoys tennis and fishing.
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Education Background
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Sharon: M.A. University of Minnesota, B.A. Bethany College
Mark: M.A. Middlebury College and Université de Paris X - Nanterre,
B.A. Bethel University​
Lisa Bekemeyer
Program Director
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It has been a privilege to welcome Japanese students to the Midwest since 2005—first as an English teacher and now as a program director. Each group brings me immense joy, year after year.
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I’m married to Steve, a social studies teacher, and we have two adult sons, Luke and Noah. I enjoy traveling, cooking, and spending time outdoors.
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Education Background
M.A. University of Minnesota,
B.A. University of Notre Dame