Remembering Thurman
A virtual memorial hosted by ASIJ’s Advancement Office on February 23, 2023, marked the great impact that Thurman Dennis (FF ’62-93), who passed away in New York City on January 18, 2023, had on his students and colleagues during his tenure at ASIJ.
Attendees were deeply touched to hear at the end of the memorial that Thurman had remembered ASIJ incredibly generously in his estate plans. It is gratifying to know that Thurman's three decades at ASIJ were so meaningful to him.
Thurman joined ASIJ in 1962 and spent the next 30 years enlightening the minds and brightening the days of young learners with his enthusiasm, his warmth, and his sincerity, both in and out of the classroom. He was deeply involved in many aspects of school life and served on the Board of Trustees from 1984 to 1993.
After retiring from ASIJ, he remained an active member of the community, attending New York receptions on numerous occasions and making friends with alumni community members long after he left Tokyo. In 1996, a room in the Elementary School building was named after Thurman, a rare honor at ASIJ. He returned to Japan for the ceremony and an unveiling of a lightbox designed by art teacher Ki Nimori (FF 1960-2002, AP ’74-84) which captured moments from Thurman’s career and some of his unique costumes.
Thurman dedicated his entire life to encouraging his students to explore, question and discover. The deep impact he had on his students, their families, and his colleagues truly became clear at the memorial, as many of Thurman's colleagues and former students at ASIJ, as well as friends and neighbors in New York, shared their wonderful memories of Thurman. It was clear from the warmth in the room that Thurman was well-loved by all of those around him.
Thurman informed ASIJ of his intentions to leave part of his estate to the School years ago, allowing the School to celebrate him as a part of the Gate Society, ASIJ’s Planned Giving society.
If you would like to join ASIJ’s Gate Society or want to learn more about Planned Giving, please get in touch with the Advancement Office at donate@asij.ac.jp.
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