Instructors

Jay Nacu (Enso Co-director, Head Karate Instructor)

Jay Nacu has been training in martial arts for over 20 years and is a Yondan (4th degree black belt) in Shotokan Karate. He received his current rank from Shihan Dwight Holley, who is based in Cincinnati, OH. His interest was sparked by early training in judo, though it wasn’t until Jay was introduced to the traditions of Shotokan that his passion really grew. Under the instruction of Sensei M. Bambouyani, Jay dedicated much of his time to training and teaching karate at several locations in Chicago, including park districts, YMCAs, health clubs, and colleges. Jay has competed among the world's top karatekas in kata (forms) and kumite (sparring) events, and has received numerous awards.

Jay is also tremendously dedicated to his teaching. In his classes, Jay believes it is important to pay close attention to the individual needs of every student, while also encouraging a supportive and disciplined training environment for the whole group. At Enso, Jay directs the martial arts programs and teaches all ages and levels.

Jay holds a B.S. degree in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) and a Master's degree in the same department. His studies focused on “Urban Youth Development” and martial arts. Jay has also taught courses at UIC including Beginning Karate, Weight Training, and Stress Reduction and Relaxation. He is currently teaching Fitness classes and Beginning Karate at Triton College. Jay is a certified Personal Trainer under the Aerobic and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) and holds certifications in Cardio Athletic Kickboxing and Youth Fitness.

Saul Notario (Karate Instructor)

Saul G. Notario has trained in different martial arts since he was 14 years old. He started training in Tae Kwon Do in the Philippines. He has also attended Degerberg Academy in Chicago to study Kali and Muay Thai. He has trained in Shotokan karate since 1995 and currently holds the rank of Yondan (4th degree Black belt). Under the tutelage of M. Bambouyani Sensei, he has taught karate in different schools in the ITKA organization including the one in the University of Chicago. Saul wanted to train in the martial arts since he was very young to learn how to fight and stand up against adversities. But the martial arts have also taught him great virtues in life such as humility, trustworthiness, honor, and courage.

Denise Conanan Nacu (Enso Co-Director, Karate Instructor)

Denise is a Sandan (3rd degree black belt) in Shotokan Karate and has been training since 1996. From the beginning, the physical and mental demands of karate got her hooked on the art as a "way of life." She has trained under Sensei M. Bambouyani in Chicago and Sensei Morris Lawrence III in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She has also competed in many tournaments and participated in training seminars around the country. Denise has been teaching karate for many years. At Enso, she is an instructor for adults and children. Denise also holds a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Michigan and is a designer/researcher at the University of Chicago Urban Education Institute.

Jacob Hillberg (Karate Instructor)

Jake became enamored with martial arts at an early age, picking up techniques where he could in his home state of Minnesota. During high school, Jake excelled in Greco Roman wrestling, winning numerous tournaments and competed at the state level. In 2001, Jake moved to Chicago where under the guidance of Sensei Jay Nacu, Jake’s interest in martial arts soared. He began a rigorous training schedule 10-15 hours a week. For Jake, training in Shotokan karate has become a way of life. Jake continues to train regularly and assist in the teaching of adult and youth classes. Jake is also a licensed clinical massage therapist and certified personal trainer.