HONORARY CHAIR 2009

Judge Kerry Hada

“Community service has enhanced my life,” states Judge Kerry Steven Hada, who was nominated for the CDBF’s Honorary Chair position by the Asian Pacific American (APA) community. “When we give back to the community, we grow as people by helping others less fortunate than ourselves. It brings perspective and gratitude for what you’ve received in life.”

A third generation Japanese American, Judge Hada was a special delegate to Japan, named by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, to strengthen U.S. and Japan relations in 2006, and remains on the Board of Governors for the Japanese American National Museum based in California. Born and raised in Denver, Judge Hada attended the University of Colorado (CU), Colorado State University (CSU) and Denver University (DU) and currently serves as a judge to the Denver County Court of Colorado. A leader during his tour of duty in the U.S. Army, he has also worked as a professional ski racer and coach, as a personnel counselor and sales manager.

Through it all, he has continually served the community. Judge Hada volunteers his time to mentor underprivileged children through Big Brother, Denver Kids and the Rocky Mountain Child Advocacy Program, and also serves as a mentor in his law career, having been awarded Mentor of the Year by DU’s College of Law. “I’ve been really fortunate in having mentors that have decided to give me a helping hand along the way, which is why it’s so important to be a mentor to younger attorneys and people in all walks of life,” states Judge Hada. He is also an active member of the Asian Chamber of Commerce, Japanese American Citizens League and Japanese Association of Colorado. His legal affiliations and awards are extensive, including serving as founder and past president of the Asian Pacific American Bar Association of Colorado, on the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association national judiciary committee, the Colorado Bar Association and Foundation, as a Channel 9 News Lawline volunteer, and having received the Colorado Supreme Court award for pro bono commitment achievement (2006) are just a few.

Judge Hada is also the recipient of the 2009 Asian American Heroes of Colorado by the OCA Colorado and the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.

The CDBF Honorary Chair position was established in 2001 and is nominated by the Asian Pacific American (APA) community. The Honorary Chair is a member of the APA community who serves as a positive role model either through his/her public position, volunteer work, and/or level of social activism. Past Honorary Chairs include Professor Ved P. Nanda, Dr. Susanna Choi, Bill Hosokawa, Stan Matsunaka, Donna LaVigne, Jaime Yrastorva, John Yee, and George and Helen Yoshida.