Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth Honors Amy Hofland with 2026 Bridges-to-Friendship Award

The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW) has announced 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 individuals whose leadership and lifelong commitment have strengthened cultural understanding and fostered enduring connections between Japan, the United States, and the broader global community. Hofland's distinguished career in Asian art, education, and cultural exchange embodies the spirit of this honor, which will be presented during the 28th Annual Legacy Awards Gala on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, in the Grand Ballroom at the Irving Convention Center.

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 later becoming executive director in 2002, she has shaped the museum into a nationally recognized center for artistic excellence, education, wellness, and cross-cultural engagement. Under her leadership, the museum expanded its permanent collection, launched major exhibitions, pioneered Asian-inspired wellness programming, and strengthened its role as a cultural bridge between East and West. 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.

Hofland's recent collaborative efforts demonstrate the practical impact of her bridge-building work. Under her guidance, the Crow Museum of Asian Art and the University of Texas at Dallas Center for Asian Studies collaborated with the Japan America Society of DFW to host and sponsor the 2026 Mochitsuki Japanese New Year celebration on January 11. The event, held at their facility, welcomed approximately 2,000 attendees who enjoyed traditional Japanese performances, cultural demonstrations such as mochi pounding, and sampled freshly made mochi—creating an engaging introduction to Japanese culture for the community. This event exemplifies how cultural institutions can serve as vital platforms for cross-cultural exchange and 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 support directly advancing JASDFW's educational programs, professional exchanges, and cultural initiatives that deepen understanding and cooperation between Japan and the United States. More information about sponsorship opportunities is available at https://www.jasdfw.org.

Hofland's contributions have left a lasting impact on the Dallas Arts District and the broader international cultural landscape. The Bridges-to-Friendship Award recognition underscores the importance of sustained cultural leadership in fostering international understanding. In an increasingly interconnected world, individuals like Hofland who dedicate their careers to building cultural bridges play a crucial role in promoting mutual respect and cooperation between nations. Her work at the Crow Museum of Asian Art demonstrates how cultural institutions can transcend traditional museum roles to become active agents of cross-cultural dialogue and understanding.