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 premier Sun & Star Legacy Award Gala. The gala, scheduled for April 15, will honor Governor Greg Abbott as this year's Sun & Star Legacy Award Recipient for his leadership in strengthening economic and cultural ties between Japan and Texas.
Governor Abbott's efforts have been instrumental in fostering partnerships that have resulted in over 400 Japanese companies operating in Texas, more than $14 billion in investment, and 81,000 Texans employed. This makes Japan the state's largest foreign investor and employer. The gala will feature distinguished 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, while Zentaro Naganuma, Consul General of Japan in Houston, will offer the ceremonial toast. For full event details and sponsorship information, please visit https://jasdfw.org/sun-star-legacy-award-dinner/.
The newly launched website at https://jasdfw.org/ features a new logo, cleaner navigation, and enhanced user experience. It serves as a centralized hub for event registration, organizational news, and media resources, making it easier to explore membership benefits, upcoming programs, sponsorship opportunities, and community initiatives. The website highlights JASDFW's expanding network of corporate benefactors and showcases the organization's mission to strengthen U.S.-Japan relations through business engagement, cultural exchange, and educational programs.
Grant Ogata, President of JASDFW, stated that the new website reflects the momentum and impact of the growing presence of Japanese businesses and the strong interest in Japanese culture across the DFW region. The website also provides information about three major upcoming programs: 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/).
For business and technology leaders, these developments underscore the substantial economic relationship between Japan and Texas, particularly in the DFW region. The gala's recognition of Governor Abbott highlights the strategic importance of international partnerships in driving investment and job creation. The new website's focus on business networking events and educational programs provides valuable resources for professionals seeking to engage with Japanese companies and culture. The upcoming programs offer insights into business trends and leadership achievements, further facilitating cross-cultural collaboration and knowledge exchange.
