The Japan-America Society of Dallas-Fort Worth (JASDFW) has announced two significant developments: the launch of a new mobile-friendly website and details for its upcoming Sun & Star Legacy Award Gala. These initiatives aim to elevate the organization's mission and expand its reach in fostering U.S.-Japan relations.
The new website, accessible at https://jasdfw.org/, features a refreshed logo, cleaner navigation, and enhanced user experience. It serves as a centralized hub for information about JASDFW's corporate and individual members, business networking events, cultural celebrations, educational programs, and leadership initiatives. The site also facilitates event registration and provides organizational news and media resources, reflecting the society's commitment to strengthening ties through business engagement, cultural exchange, and education.
Grant Ogata, President of JASDFW, stated that the website showcases the momentum and impact of the growing presence of Japanese businesses and interest in Japanese culture across the Dallas-Fort Worth region. It highlights the society's expanding network of corporate benefactors, whose partnerships support various programs connecting North Texans with Japan.
Concurrently, JASDFW has detailed its premier signature event, the Sun & Star Legacy Award Gala, scheduled for April 15, 2026. This marquee event is anticipated to be the largest yet, uniting leading figures from civic, business, and cultural communities to celebrate friendship, innovation, and deepening business relationships between Japan and Texas. The gala will honor Governor Greg Abbott as the 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Award Recipient, recognizing his leadership in strengthening economic and cultural ties. Under his efforts, Japan has become Texas's largest foreign investor and employer, with over 400 Japanese companies operating in the state, contributing more than $14 billion in investment and employing 81,000 Texans.
The evening will feature distinguished guest presenters, including Tetsuo Ogawa, President & CEO of Toyota Motor North America, and Emily Williams Knight, President & CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association. Rick Stopfer, Mayor of Irving, will serve as Honorary Host, and Zentaro Naganuma, Consul General of Japan in Houston, will offer the ceremonial toast. Full event details and sponsorship information are available at https://jasdfw.org/sun-star-legacy-award-dinner/.
The new website also highlights upcoming programs, including Business Outlook in 2026 on February 12 (https://jasdfw.org/event/business-outlook-in-2026/), Japan Currents on February 20 (https://jasdfw.org/event/2026-japan-currents/), and Celebrating Women's Career Achievement on March 19 (https://jasdfw.org/event/celebrating-womens-career-achievement/). These events spotlight business insights and leadership achievements, furthering JASDFW's role in connecting North Texas with Japan.
These developments underscore the importance of JASDFW's work in promoting bilateral relations, with implications for economic growth, cultural understanding, and community engagement in the region. The new website enhances accessibility and information dissemination, while the gala recognizes key contributions to the Japan-Texas partnership, potentially inspiring further collaboration and investment. For readers, this news highlights opportunities for networking, learning, and participation in initiatives that bridge international divides, reinforcing the value of such organizations in a globalized world.
