Akiko KAWAGUCHI is a Program Assistant, as she provides administrative and logistical support for LEAD Japan, including all preparation for the National Training Sessions, communication with LEAD International, management of inventory and files, and arrangements for National Steering Committee and Curriculum Committee meetings.

A. Kawaguchi graduated from Dartmouth College with a Bachelor's degree in Asian Studies and Biological Sciences. During her undergraduate years, she participated in a study abroad program in China and worked as a teaching assistant. During her senior year, she worked at the college's Environmental Studies Program where she assisted in editing the journal International Environmental Affairs. She also worked on a project that created an Internet-based database of environmental agreements and treaties.