Leadership & Governance

United States Eastern Wado Ryu Federation

The U.S. Eastern Wado-Ryu Karate Federation (USEWF) is guided by a structured leadership body committed to preserving the integrity, technical standards, and spirit of Wado-Ryu Karate-Do. Our organization balances respect for traditional lineage with a clear, modern framework for growth, instruction, and community.

The USEWF Board of Directors

Established in 1968

the USEWF Board of Directors is the body directly responsible for observing, maintaining, and enforcing our Federation's By-Laws, and for ensuring our continued adherence to the instruction of Wado Ryu karate as originally taught by Master Ohtsuka.

The Board of Directors is composed of senior practitioners and trusted leaders within the Federation. Each member brings years—often decades—of experience in Wado-Ryu Karate-Do, along with a shared commitment to its preservation and responsible growth.

Responsibilities of the Board include:

  • Maintaining alignment with Wado-Ryu lineage and principles
  • Supporting instructor development and certification standards
  • Organizing national events, seminars, and tournaments
  • Ensuring the Federation operates with integrity and transparency
  • Guiding long-term strategic decisions

The Board works collaboratively with the Chief Instructor and senior leadership to ensure that all decisions reflect both the technical demands and philosophical foundation of Wado-Ryu.

Cecil T Patterson Wado Ryu Karate

Cecil T. Patterson

Hachidan Founder and 1st President - 1930 - 2000

john-c-patterson

John V. Patterson

Nanadan -President

sensei Bill Taylor

Bill Taylor

Chairman of the Board
Lead Examiner

sensei Steve O'Riley

Steve O'Riley

Assistant Director
Assistant Lead Examiner

sensei Jimmy Edwards

Jimmy Edwards

Board Member
Examiner

sensei Melvin Brown, Jr.

Melvin Brown, Jr.

Board Member
Examiner

sensei keith fall

Keith Fall

Board Member
Examiner

sensei Kathy Krusinga

Kathy Krusinga

Board Member
Examiner

sensei Newton Harris

Newton Harris

Board Member
Examiner

sensei Roe Carter

William Roe Carter

Board Member
Examiner

The Way Of Harmony

How We Train & Lead

Wado-Ryu is often translated as “The Way of Harmony.” That principle is reflected in how we train and how we lead.We believe in:

Respect for instructors and students alike

Growth through discipline and consistency

Strength guided by control and awareness

Our federation exists to support students at every level—from beginners stepping onto the mat for the first time, to advanced practitioners refining their craft.