On December 6, 2025, Kumamoto University held the Mansfield Café at the Kumamoto City International Center as part of its collaboration with the Mansfield Foundation.
Seven participants attended the event in a relaxed café-style setting. The guest speaker was Mr. James-Darrell Racca, a U.S. federal government employee who works as an aircraft pilot and flight instructor.
Mr. Racca introduced his work as a pilot in the U.S. federal government and shared his motivation for becoming a pilot, including his experience of his first solo flight. He also spoke about his role as a Mansfield Fellow, explaining how the program allows U.S. government officials to live and work in Japan while learning about disaster prevention and mitigation, local administration, and regional industries, in order to promote mutual understanding between Japan and the United States.
During the discussion, participants exchanged views on differences between working styles in Japan and the United States, flight training in the U.S., and everyday topics such as Mr. Racca’s favorite Japanese foods. The lively exchange created a warm and engaging atmosphere.
Kumamoto University will continue to host the Mansfield Café as part of its collaboration with the Mansfield Foundation. The next sessions are scheduled for January 10 and January 24, 2026.
In addition, the Kumamoto-Mansfield Lecture Series (https://www.kumamoto-u.ac.jp/kokusaikouryuu/whatsnew/ku-mansfield2025) is held nearly every Friday in a hybrid format (in person and online) through February 6, 2026. Participation is open from a single session, and students, faculty, staff, and community members are all welcome.
