Lillian J. Escobar, MS, BS Computer Science
Retired Software Engineer | U.S. Army Veteran
Tax Professional & Travel Advisor
President of United Federation of Martial Arts (UFMA – 6th Dan)
4th Degree Black Belt – Shotokan Karate
Member of World Traditional Karate Organization (WTKO)
Member of Golden Dragon Shotokan Club
Inducted in American Federation of Martial Arts Hall of Fame (1984)
Lillian J. Escobar began her martial arts journey in Brooklyn, New York at the age of 16, training under Sensei Mario Arthur. She further developed her skills and discipline under the guidance of Master Thomas “Lapuppet” Carroll, Sensei Alex Sternberg in Brooklyn, and Sensei John Mullin in Staten Island, New York. With over 40 years of dedicated training, her experience reflects a lifelong commitment to the art and philosophy of Shotokan Karate.
An accomplished and avid competitor, Lillian has earned numerous domestic and international kumite championships through the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) and various open tournament circuits. In recognition of her achievements and contributions to the martial arts, she was inducted into the American Federation of Martial Arts Hall of Fame in 1984. Her competitive success is matched by her deep respect for the principles, discipline, and traditions of karate.
Beyond martial arts, Lillian has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to leadership, excellence, and service across athletics, professional endeavors, and her community. She was a competitive track athlete in both high school and college, where she developed the discipline and perseverance that continue to define her approach today. She later played on and managed a women’s softball team, leading them to multiple championship victories in the highly competitive New York City Wall Street League.
Continuing her passion for athletics, Lillian is an active tennis player and serves as Captain of a women’s tennis team. Under her leadership, the team has won the United States Tennis Association (USTA) Staten Island Championship three times and has represented Staten Island in regional USTA competitions.
In her professional career, Lillian distinguished herself as a leader in the technology field. She led a team of computer programmers in developing an innovative platform that automated complex manual processes for clients, earning recognition with a Microsoft award. Her ability to lead, innovate, and deliver results reflects the same focus, discipline, and strategic thinking cultivated through her martial arts training.
Lillian is deeply committed to service and empowerment. She actively volunteers to support underprivileged children, seniors, and veterans, and currently serves as Treasurer of the nonprofit organization, Staten Island Giving Circle. In addition, she is passionate about helping others achieve financial independence, mentoring individuals to develop the discipline, mindset, and strategies necessary to improve their lives and build long-term stability.
Equally significant is Lillian’s role as a dedicated parent. As a single mother, she successfully raised two biological children and two stepchildren, instilling in them the values of integrity, resilience, and strong character. Balancing family, career, athletics, and service required unwavering commitment and strength—qualities deeply rooted in her martial arts journey.
Outside of her professional and martial arts commitments, Lillian values balance and personal growth. In her spare time, she enjoys playing the violin, piano, and flute, embracing music as another form of discipline and creative expression.
For Lillian, karate is not just a sport – it is a way of life. It has shaped her mentally, physically, and spiritually, instilling discipline, focus, and resilience that extend far beyond the dojo. She continues to embrace and live the art of karate and remains committed to training, teaching, mentoring, and inspiring others for as long as she is able.
Past Roles and Honors
- U.S. Army – Military Intelligence Branch
- Five-Time AAU Kumite Champion – NYC Women’s Lightweight Division
- AAU National Champion: 1st Place in Regionals, 2nd place in Nationals – Women’s Lightweight Division
- AAU USA Karate Team Candidate
- East Coast Martial Arts (ECMA) USA International Team Champion
- Treasurer, American Federation of Martial Arts (AFMA)