Our People

Shihan Gene Dunn began the study of Shotokan Karate at the age of 12. He went on to spend more than ten years with world-renowned instructor, Kai Leung. A member of Team USA for over three years, Shihan Dunn is a six-time national karate champion and won the North American heavy-weight championship in 1993. Other impressive credits include four New York State Championships, three East Coast Regional Championships, and a Pan American Bronze Medal. In addition, he is one of a handful of Americans to reach the level of second degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Renzo Gracie. Shihan Gene Dunn also holds a Black Belt in Judo under Sensei Sheena. Noted for his ability to train and coach students of all ages, Shihan Dunn has been instrumental in helping many of them become successful Black Belts and leaders in their community.

Sensei Charles Albert

Sensei Charles Albert received his third degree black belt and purple belt in Brazilian-Jiu Jitsu under the instruction of Shihan Dunn.  Sensei Charles also holds a brown belt in Judo under Sensei Sheena.  Mr. Albert has become a capable and effective instructor in Shotokan karate-do, and is the main instructor of the Adult program. With his help and guidance, students have overcome many obstacles, which has helped them become more confident in themselves and more positive in their lives and with the people around them. His devotion to teaching and the care that he has for his students is displayed from the moment he steps onto the mat.

Brenda Ferrara

Brenda Ferrara is both a second degree black belt in Karate and a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Shihan Dunn. As the Program Director at Gene Dunn's Karate, she is responsible for helping to improve the lives of hundreds and hundreds of students through the Martial Arts. Her ongoing commitment to student service helps everyone regardless of age or stage - to build long-lasting, positive relationships in the dojo. In the course of managing the administrative side of GDSK, she communicates her enthusiasm and love for training to every student on a daily basis. She continues to train alongside her husband (who is currently a brown belt), and her two sons (who have both achieved their black belts under Shihan Dunn).

Patricia Paradiso Dakin

Patricia Paradiso Dakin is part of the administrative team at Gene Dunn's Shotokan Dojo and a black belt in Shotokan karate here.  She also holds a BBA from Pace University.  Patricia is an avid martial artist whose love for the art has spread through her whole family.  She has expanded her training to include Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu; her husband and daughter are currently training in karate in the school and her son is a black belt.  Patricia believes her training in Karate is one of the most rewarding and positive aspects of her life, and believes that the Martial Arts has something to offer everyone.