04/11/2026
We are so, so proud of Lee Crawford Sensei on her appointment of Shihan by the examination Committee for the Appointment of Shihan at Aikikai Hombu Dojo! Congratulations to all ASU members who have recently been appointed Shihan.
2026 Shihan Appointments
We are pleased to announce that the following ASU members have been appointed Shihan by the Examination Committee for the Appointment of Shihan at Aikikai Hombu Dojo. Congratulations to all!
Jim Alvarez, Aikido of Livermore
Lee Crawford, Bond Street Dojo
Robert Deppe, Aikido Shobukan Dojo
Eugene Lee, Aikido Shobukan Dojo
Chetan Prakash, Redlands Aikikai
Gary Small, Aikido of Maine
Marsha Turner, Chicago Aikikai
This honor reflects their deep experience, technical mastery, and long-standing dedication to the transmission of Aikido and its values through their leadership, engagement, and support of ASU.
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Saotome Sensei, whose vision and lifelong commitment to Aikido continue to guide and inspire our community. We also offer our sincere thanks to Doshu and the Aikikai Foundation for this recognition.
Please join us in congratulating these outstanding leaders in our community.
