Texas Governor Greg Abbott to Receive Sun & Star Legacy Award for Strengthening Japan-Texas Relations
Governor Greg Abbott will be honored for his leadership in advancing economic and diplomatic ties between Japan and Texas at the 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Award Dinner, highlighting the state's growing importance as a hub for Japanese investment and collaboration.
The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW) 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 enduring partnership between Japan and Texas.
Governor Abbott is being recognized for his outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties between Japan and Texas. Under his administration, Texas has become one of Japan's strongest partners in the United States for trade, innovation, and investment. This includes establishing strategic agreements with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Aichi Prefecture, which is home to Toyota's global headquarters. Today, Texas hosts hundreds of Japanese-owned businesses and serves as a cornerstone of continued U.S.-Japan collaboration.
The Sun & Star Legacy Award Dinner represents one of North Texas's most anticipated international business and cultural galas, providing a platform for high-level networking and international collaboration that showcases the dynamic Texas-Japan relationship. Lawrence P. Howorth, Chair of the Board of Directors for JASDFW, stated that the event exemplifies how partnerships between Texas and Japan continue to shape the future, emphasizing the importance of building friendships and fostering business collaboration between the two nations.
Guests can expect an elegant evening featuring a VIP reception, gourmet dinner, and opportunities to connect with influential figures from both countries. The event will also include a silent auction with curated travel experiences, designer jewelry, fine dining packages, and exclusive sports and golf offerings. As JASDFW's signature annual fundraiser, the dinner supports programs that promote education, culture, and business exchange across North Texas and beyond, with proceeds enabling the Society to continue its mission of fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between Japanese and American communities. Sponsorships and table reservations are now open, and interested parties can receive updates or express early interest through the organization's website at https://www.jasdfw.org.