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 of cultural leadership in fostering international relations and understanding at a time when global connections are increasingly vital. The award will be presented at the 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Awards Gala on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in the Grand Ballroom at the Irving Convention Center.
The Bridges-to-Friendship Award specifically honors individuals whose leadership and lifelong dedication have strengthened cultural understanding and built enduring connections between Japan, the United States, and the broader global community. Hofland's distinguished career in Asian art, education, and cultural exchange exemplifies this mission. Her work demonstrates how sustained, compassionate leadership in the arts can serve as a powerful diplomatic and educational tool, bridging divides and enriching communities.
As Director of the Crow Museum of Asian Art, Hofland leads the preeminent museum in the southern United States dedicated to the art and cultures of China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia. Since joining the institution at its inception and becoming executive director in 2002, she has transformed it into a nationally recognized center for artistic excellence, education, wellness, and cross-cultural engagement. Under her guidance, the museum has expanded its permanent collection, launched major exhibitions, pioneered Asian-inspired wellness programming, and solidified its role as a cultural bridge. This institutional growth underscores the tangible impact of dedicated cultural stewardship on a city's international profile and its residents' access to global perspectives.
A recent example of this bridge-building is the collaboration between the Crow Museum, the University of Texas at Dallas Center for Asian Studies, and the Japan America Society of DFW to host the 2026 Mochitsuki Japanese New Year celebration on January 11. The event, held at their facility, welcomed approximately 2,000 attendees who experienced traditional Japanese performances, cultural demonstrations like mochi pounding, and sampled freshly made mochi. Such events are not merely celebrations; they are accessible, community-focused introductions to another culture, directly fostering the interpersonal connections that underpin strong international relations. More information on the society's events can be found at https://www.jasdfw.org.
Hofland's consistent emphasis on accessibility, compassion, and community connection aligns directly with JASDFW's mission to strengthen U.S.–Japan relations through education, business collaboration, and cultural understanding. Her contributions have left a lasting imprint on the Dallas Arts District and the broader international cultural landscape, proving that cultural institutions are essential actors in the ecosystem of global diplomacy and mutual understanding.
The 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Awards Gala will convene civic, business, and cultural leaders to celebrate friendship, innovation, and leadership between Japan and Texas. The event will also honor Greg Abbott as the Special Guest of Honor and Sun & Star Legacy Award Recipient, recognizing his support of international business and cultural partnerships. JASDFW invites community support for its mission, noting that sponsorship of the Gala directly advances educational programs, professional exchanges, and cultural initiatives. Details on sponsorship are available at https://www.jasdfw.org/legacyawards. The sustained success of such programs depends on ongoing community and corporate engagement, highlighting the shared responsibility in maintaining and deepening international ties for future generations.
