The Penn State Karate Club celebrated its 50th anniversary in January of 2022.

In March of 1972, the PSKC became affiliated with Sensei Stuart A. Dorow and Sensei Carol A. Liskai. For the next 28 years, Sensei Dorow and Sensei Liskai would travel from Oklahoma each semester to provide free instruction to the students of the PSKC.

While in the U.S. Marine Corps, Dorow and Liskai studied in Okinawa with the founder of Isshinryu Karate, Tatsuo Shimabuku, Judan (10th Dan). Major Liskai had a distinguished career. As an undergrad, she won several trophies competing on the Ohio State Woman’s Judo Team. Liskai learned Karate while stationed at Camp Smith, Hawaii. During a visit to Okinawa Liskai was evaluated by Master Shimabuku. She was the first and only woman to be directly promoted by Master Shimabuku to the rank of Sandan (3rd Degree Black Belt) in Isshinryu Karate. In 1970 as a first 1st Lt., Liskai won top honors at the Seattle Open Karate Championships,which at the time was one of the largest tournaments in the world. By the time of her death in 2005, Liskai had achieved Hachidan (8th Dan)

The Penn State Karate club is grateful for Sensei Liskai’s many years of help and guidance. She continues to be an excellent roll model for all our students.