The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW) 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. The announcement, made on January 15, 2026, recognizes Hofland's leadership in fostering cultural understanding and enduring connections between Japan, the United States, and the global community. The award will be presented at the 28th Annual Sun & Star Legacy Awards Gala on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in the Grand Ballroom at the Irving Convention Center.
Hofland has led the Crow Museum of Asian Art since its inception, becoming its executive director in 2002. Under her guidance, the museum has grown into a nationally recognized center for artistic excellence, education, wellness, and cross-cultural engagement. Her work has included expanding the permanent collection, launching major exhibitions, and pioneering Asian-inspired wellness programs that have strengthened the museum's role as a cultural bridge between East and West. The museum, located in the Dallas Arts District, is the preeminent institution in the southern United States dedicated to the art and cultures of China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia.
Hofland's contributions were recently highlighted during the 2026 Mochitsuki Japanese New Year celebration on January 11, which she helped organize in collaboration with JASDFW and the University of Texas at Dallas Center for Asian Studies. The event, held at the Crow Museum, attracted approximately 2,000 attendees who enjoyed traditional Japanese performances, cultural demonstrations such as mochi pounding, and freshly made mochi. This event exemplifies Hofland's commitment to making Japanese culture accessible to the community.
The Bridges-to-Friendship Award honors individuals whose lifelong commitment has strengthened cultural understanding and fostered enduring connections between Japan, the United States, and the broader global community. Hofland's career in Asian art, education, and cultural exchange embodies this spirit. Her work has consistently emphasized accessibility, compassion, and community connection—values that align closely with JASDFW's mission to strengthen U.S.-Japan relations through education, business collaboration, and cultural understanding.
The 2026 Sun & Star Legacy Awards Gala will bring together civic, business, and cultural leaders for an evening celebrating friendship, innovation, and leadership between Japan and Texas. This year's Special Guest of Honor and Sun & Star Legacy Award Recipient is Greg Abbott, recognizing his leadership and support of international business and cultural partnerships. JASDFW invites corporations, organizations, and community leaders to participate as sponsors of the 2026 Gala, with sponsorship opportunities available through their website. Sponsorship support directly advances JASDFW's educational programs, professional exchanges, and cultural initiatives that deepen understanding and cooperation between Japan and the United States.
