The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth has named Amy Hofland, Director of the Crow Museum of Asian Art at The University of Texas at Dallas, as the 2026 Bridges-to-Friendship Award winner. This recognition highlights the critical role cultural institutions and their leaders play in fostering international understanding and cooperation at a time when global connections are increasingly vital. The award will be presented during the 28th Annual Legacy Awards Gala on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the Irving Convention Center.
The Bridges-to-Friendship Award specifically honors individuals whose leadership and lifelong commitment have strengthened cultural understanding and fostered enduring connections between Japan, the United States, and the broader global community. Hofland's career, dedicated to Asian art, education, and cultural exchange, exemplifies this mission. As the director of the preeminent museum in the southern United States dedicated to Asian art, she has shaped the institution into a nationally recognized center for artistic excellence and cross-cultural engagement since becoming executive director in 2002.
Under Hofland's leadership, the Crow Museum of Asian Art has expanded its permanent collection, launched major exhibitions, and pioneered Asian-inspired wellness programming. Her work emphasizes accessibility, compassion, and community connection, values that align with JASDFW's mission to strengthen U.S.–Japan relations. This alignment was demonstrated recently through a collaborative event. The museum, in partnership with the University of Texas at Dallas Center for Asian Studies and JASDFW, hosted the 2026 Mochitsuki Japanese New Year celebration on January 11. The event welcomed approximately 2,000 attendees for traditional performances and cultural demonstrations, serving as a direct bridge for community engagement with Japanese culture.
The significance of this award extends beyond individual recognition. It underscores the importance of cultural diplomacy and the tangible impact of institutions like the Crow Museum in building international bridges. In an era where global business and political relationships are complex, sustained cultural understanding facilitated by museums and societies provides a foundational layer for mutual respect and collaboration. The upcoming 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Awards Gala, which will honor Governor Greg Abbott as Special Guest of Honor, further emphasizes the intersection of civic leadership and international partnership.
For the community and industry, this news matters because it reaffirms the value of investing in cultural leadership and institutions. Hofland's award and the collaborative events she champions demonstrate how local cultural initiatives can have a global impact, fostering an environment where business, education, and art converge to create stronger international ties. The work supported by JASDFW, detailed through their sponsorship opportunities at https://www.jasdfw.org, directly advances educational programs and professional exchanges that are essential for future cooperation. This award and the gala celebrate not just past achievements but also invest in the framework for continued friendship and innovation between Japan and Texas, with implications for economic and cultural partnerships worldwide.
