The Japan-America Society of Dallas-Fort Worth (JASDFW) has launched a new mobile-friendly website and detailed plans for its premier 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Award Gala, developments that underscore the organization's expanding role in fostering U.S.-Japan relations in North Texas. The new website at https://jasdfw.org/ features enhanced navigation and serves as a central hub for information on membership, events, and programs connecting the region with Japan.
The website launch coincides with the announcement of the 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Award Gala, scheduled for April 15, which will honor Texas Governor Greg Abbott as this year's award recipient. The gala recognizes Governor Abbott's leadership in strengthening economic and cultural ties between Japan and Texas, efforts that have contributed to over 400 Japanese companies operating in the state, more than $14 billion in Japanese investment, and the creation of 81,000 jobs for Texans, making Japan Texas's largest foreign investor and employer.
This development is significant as it reflects the tangible economic impact of international diplomacy and business engagement at the state level. The gala, described as the organization's largest signature event, will bring together civic, business, and cultural leaders, including distinguished presenters 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 a ceremonial toast. Full event and sponsorship details are available at https://jasdfw.org/sun-star-legacy-award-dinner/.
The new website is designed to support JASDFW's mission of strengthening U.S.-Japan relations through business engagement, cultural exchange, and educational programs. It highlights the organization's network of corporate benefactors and provides easy access to event registration and organizational news. Grant Ogata, President of JASDFW, stated the website reflects the momentum of Japanese business presence and cultural interest in the Dallas-Fort Worth region, showcasing the society's programs and the relationships it builds.
For businesses and individuals in North Texas, these announcements signal ongoing opportunities for networking, cultural understanding, and economic collaboration with Japan. The website also lists upcoming programs, including a Business Outlook event on February 12 at https://jasdfw.org/event/business-outlook-in-2026/, Japan Currents on February 20 at https://jasdfw.org/event/2026-japan-currents/, and a Women's Career Achievement celebration on March 19 at https://jasdfw.org/event/celebrating-womens-career-achievement/. These initiatives demonstrate the society's focus on leadership and business insights, further cementing its role as a key facilitator in the Japan-Texas relationship, which has proven economically vital for the state.
