The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth will present Texas Governor Greg Abbott with its highest honor, the Sun & Star Legacy Award, at the 28th Annual Legacy Award Dinner on April 15, 2026. The event will take place in the Grand Ballroom of the Irving Convention Center from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., bringing together hundreds of executives from business, government, and diplomatic communities to celebrate the Texas-Japan partnership.
This recognition underscores Governor Abbott's significant contributions to strengthening economic, cultural, and diplomatic relations between Japan and Texas. Under his leadership, Texas has emerged as one of Japan's strongest partners in the United States for trade, innovation, and investment. The state has established strategic agreements with both the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Aichi Prefecture, which hosts Toyota's global headquarters. These partnerships have positioned Texas as home to hundreds of Japanese-owned businesses and a cornerstone of ongoing U.S.-Japan collaboration.
The significance of this award extends beyond ceremonial recognition, highlighting Texas' growing role in global economic networks. Japan represents one of Texas' most important international trading partners, with bilateral relationships driving job creation, technological innovation, and cultural exchange across the state. The recognition of Governor Abbott signals continued commitment to maintaining and expanding these vital international connections at a time when global economic alliances face increasing scrutiny and competition.
Lawrence P. Howorth, Chair of the Board of Directors for the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth, emphasized the importance of these partnerships. The Sun & Star Legacy Award Dinner serves as a powerful platform for building friendships, fostering business collaboration, and celebrating shared values of innovation, respect, and community between the two nations.
Attendees can expect an elegant evening featuring a VIP reception, gourmet dinner, and opportunities to connect with influential figures from both countries. The event will include a silent auction with curated travel experiences, designer jewelry, fine dining packages, and exclusive sports and golf offerings. For those interested in participating, sponsorship and table reservation information is available through the organization's website at https://www.jasdfw.org.
The Sun & Star Legacy Award Dinner functions as the Japan-America Society's signature annual fundraiser, supporting programs that promote education, culture, and business exchange across North Texas and beyond. Proceeds enable the Society to continue its mission of fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between Japanese and American communities, ensuring that the economic and cultural bridges built between Texas and Japan remain strong for future generations.
