DALLAS–FORT WORTH, TX , February 05, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Today, we are pleased to announce the launch of our new official website (https://jasdfw.org/) and to share details about our signature special event taking place on April 15, the Sun & Star Legacy Award Gala.

2026 Sun & Star Legacy Award Gala

This gala will bring together leaders representing the civic, business, and cultural communities to celebrate U.S.–Japan friendship, innovation, and the continued growth of business relations between Japan and Texas.

The event is expected to be the largest gala in our history and will honor this year's Sun & Star Legacy Award recipient, Governor Greg Abbott, recognizing his leadership and contributions to strengthening economic and cultural ties between Japan and the United States.

Through the Governor's initiatives, more than 400 Japanese companies have established operations in Texas, generating over $14 billion in investment and creating approximately 81,000 jobs. As a result, Japan has become Texas's largest foreign investor and employer.

Guest presenters for the evening will include:

• Tetsuo "Ted" Ogawa, President & CEO, Toyota Motor North America
• Emily Williams Knight, President & CEO, Texas Restaurant Association

Rick Stopfer, Mayor of Irving, will serve as Honorary Host, and Zentaro Naganuma, Consul General of Japan in Houston, will deliver the ceremonial toast.

For event details and sponsorship information, please visit:
https://jasdfw.org/sun-star-legacy-award-dinner/

About the New Website

The newly redesigned website features a mobile-friendly layout and clearly highlights the Society's business exchanges, cultural initiatives, and educational programs.

With a new logo, intuitive navigation, and an enhanced user experience, visitors can easily access membership benefits, event information, sponsorship opportunities, and community initiatives.

The site also showcases the network of corporate sponsors that support the Society's work, enabling business, cultural, and educational programs that connect North Texas and Japan. It serves as a central hub for event registration, Society news, and media resources.

JASDFW President Grant Ogata commented:

"The new website represents more than a redesign — it reflects the growing presence of Japanese companies in the DFW region and the strong interest in Japanese culture. It serves as a platform to highlight our mission, our members, and our business, cultural, and educational programs, as well as the relationships we have built between Japan and North Texas."

Upcoming Programs

The following events are also featured on the website:

February 12: Business Outlook in 2026
https://jasdfw.org/event/business-outlook-in-2026/

February 20: Japan Currents
https://jasdfw.org/event/2026-japan-currents/

March 19: Celebrating Women's Career Achievement
https://jasdfw.org/event/celebrating-womens-career-achievement/

We invite you to explore our new website and stay updated on the latest news and programs.

We also look forward to welcoming you to a special evening celebrating leadership, partnership, and friendship at the upcoming Award Gala.

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