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CEO Yamaguchi recently had the honor of attending the 28th Annual Sun & Star Legacy Award Dinner, hosted by the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW). Held at the Irving Convention Center, this prestigious gala brought together hundreds of leaders from business, government, diplomacy, and culture to celebrate the enduring partnership between Japan and the State of Texas.
Event Overview
Date: Wednesday, April 15, 2026 — 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Venue: Grand Ballroom, Irving Convention Center, Irving, Texas
Host: The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW)
Attendees: Hundreds of executives, diplomats, and civic leaders from Japan and the United States
2026 Sun & Star Legacy Award Recipient
The Honorable Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas
This year’s highest honor, the Sun & Star Legacy Award, was presented to Texas Governor Greg Abbott in recognition of his outstanding leadership in strengthening the economic and cultural ties between Japan and Texas. Governor Abbott has played a pivotal role in forging strategic partnerships, including landmark agreements with the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and Aichi Prefecture — home to Toyota’s global headquarters.
Thanks in large part to the Governor’s efforts, more than 400 Japanese companies now operate in Texas, contributing over USD 14 billion in investment and creating jobs for approximately 81,000 Texans. Today, Japan stands as the largest foreign investor and private-sector employer in the state.
Program Highlights
The evening featured remarks and presentations from distinguished guests representing both nations:
- Mr. Tetsuo “Ted” Ogawa — President & CEO of Toyota Motor North America, who presented the Legacy Award to Governor Abbott.
- Dr. Emily Williams Knight — President & CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association, featured as a distinguished guest presenter.
- Mr. Zentaro Naganuma — Consul General of Japan in Houston, who offered the ceremonial toast.
- Mr. Rick Stopfer — Mayor of Irving, who served as the Honorary Host.
Reflections from the Evening
Far more than a formal dinner, this gala served as a unique forum where decision-makers from both countries came together to build the foundation for future collaboration in business, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. For CEO Yamaguchi and American Katerra LLC, gaining direct insight into Toyota’s North American strategy and the Texas state government’s approach to Japan-related initiatives was an especially valuable experience.
Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, American Katerra LLC is the U.S. subsidiary of Yamaguchi Heavy Industries, operating at the intersection of green steel manufacturing, BIM, and carbon management. The connections and insights gained through this event will further strengthen the company’s role as a bridge between Japanese and American enterprises working toward a more sustainable industrial future.
About JASDFW
Founded in 1970, the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth is dedicated to strengthening the bonds between the people of Japan and North Texas through business, educational, and cultural exchange. The Sun & Star Legacy Award Dinner is JASDFW’s signature annual fundraiser, supporting programs that foster mutual understanding between the two nations.
The name “Sun & Star” draws on the Rising Sun of Japan and the Lone Star of Texas — a symbol of the friendship between the two regions.
