Unsung Hero: Dr. Tatsuya Kondo
One year ago, we featured Dr. Tatsuya Kondo on the cover of The ACCJ Journal. The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) had recognized him for his contributions to the healthcare industry with the 2020 ACCJ Outstanding Achievement Award. Dr. Kondo played a key role in Japan’s healthcare efforts as chief executive of the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) from 2008 to 2019. Sadly, he passed away on September 26 after a battle with prostate cancer. ACCJ members shared thoughts and memories with The ACCJ Journal about what Dr. Kondo meant to them and the industry.
Robert “Skipp” Orr (1953–2021)
The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) has lost a longtime member and leader, Robert “Skipp” Orr, who passed away on August 12 due to heart failure at his home in Kamakura. He was 68. Orr played a key role in US–Japan relations over many decades and helped lead the ACCJ during the 1990s as a governor (1995–96) and vice president (1997–99). He guided Boeing Japan K.K. as president from 2002 to 2007 and served as chairman of the board of the Panasonic Foundation from 2007 to 2010.