ST. PETERSBURG, FL, September 30, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Jeanne Keiko Houlton has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Marked by her longstanding expertise in both fashion and business management, Ms. Houlton has led a remarkable career spanning nearly five decades. As president of Ichiyo School of Ikebana in Florida, she has dedicated herself to teaching the art of Japanese flower arrangements. Her commitment to her discipline is evident in her efforts to promote Ichiyo throughout Florida, sharing her international knowledge and passion with students across the region. With an approach to teaching that emphasizes creativity and cultural appreciation, she continues to hold deep respect for the traditions of ikebana.

Prior to reaching her leadership role at Ichiyo School of Ikebana, Ms. Houlton built a notable career in the retail fashion industry. She began as a sales clerk and quickly advanced through the ranks at Liberty House, ultimately serving as junior buyer for dresses, coats and suits. Fueled by relentless motivation and a strong work ethic, she often dedicated up to 70 hours per week to her responsibilities. Her performance led to frequent promotions — far surpassing the typical two-year training period — and culminated in her appointment as the merchandise manager, where she oversaw operations for more than 100 locations.

During her tenure in the leather goods sector, Ms. Houlton achieved what she considers her most rewarding professional milestone: designing retail handbags under a private label. Utilizing the size and influence of her company, she collaborated directly with manufacturers to create exclusive styles tailored specifically for their brand. Her primary focus was on handbags, though she also contributed designs for wallets and belts. While men's belts presented challenges due to their classic nature and limited stylistic flexibility, handbags and wallets offered significant opportunities for creative expression through designs that remained tasteful and commercially viable.

Academically, Ms. Houlton pursued higher education and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Hawaii. The skills acquired during her studies have been pivotal throughout her career, equipping her with management expertise that proved essential in both retail operations and educational leadership. Along with her desire to continue learning about various styles and cultures, she attributes much of her success to relentless motivation, a deep commitment to excellence and recognition received through academic achievement and workplace advancement.

Beyond her professional pursuits, Ms. Houlton has demonstrated a strong commitment to civic engagement and community service. She has served as chairman of the education committee at the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, where she contributed to educational programming and outreach initiatives. Additionally, she participates with the Stuart Society and volunteers at Sunken Gardens, further exemplifying her dedication to cultural enrichment and environmental stewardship.

Born in Honolulu, Ms. Houlton enjoys teaching, decorating her home with flowers, cooking and traveling. Her background in languages includes foundational skills in Japanese and French; while no longer fluent in Japanese due to lack of use, she retains basic comprehension and feels confident navigating both Japan and France comfortably with her language abilities.

In the coming years, Ms. Houlton aims to continue promoting Ichiyo School of Ikebana wherever opportunities arise throughout Florida. Although she once dismissed teaching as an unappealing profession — favoring business management instead — her perspective has evolved significantly over time. Today, she embraces education with enthusiasm and fulfillment, finding joy in sharing her passions with others. Her journey reflects a rare blend of artistic sensibility, business acumen and dedication to lifelong learning — qualities that have earned her recognition among peers and inclusion in Marquis Who's Who.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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