Michelle Motoyoshi (1991)

Educator, Ohlone College

Since graduating in 1998, Dr. Motoyoshi has worked in and around the field of education. She briefly held a position as writer/editor for Toucan Valley Publications, where she wrote and published books on ethnic groups in California. She has also worked as a private tutor and as a freelance writer, providing content for educational websites.

Taking a brief break from education, in 2006 Dr. Motoyoshi created and produced a monthly variety show for Eth-Noh-Tec, an Asian American storytelling organization in San Francisco. The shows were designed to expand the organization's local presence and to provide an accessible venue for emerging talent. The shows continue to run today.

In 2008 Dr. Motoyoshi created an after school academic enrichment program under the auspices of Ohlone College in Fremont, CA. At present, she coordinates, develops,and teaches in the program, which she hopes to expand throughout the Tri City area.

In addition to her day jobs, Dr. Motoyoshi writes scripts and other fiction. Her work has been featured in several small journals and on several small stages around the Bay Area. She also has a blog on Open Salon.

Dr. Motoyoshi is married and has one child, a daughter who, at the moment, hopes to follow in her mother's Ph.D. footsteps.

Dissertation Title
We Are Not Americans: Interracial Marriage, Racial Identity, and Multiculturalism in the United States