The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW) has announced that Amy Hofland, Director of the Crow Museum of Asian Art at The University of Texas at Dallas, will receive the 2026 Bridges-to-Friendship Award. The award will be presented at the 28th Annual Legacy Awards Gala on April 15, 2026, at the Irving Convention Center.
The Bridges-to-Friendship Award recognizes 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 career in Asian art, education, and cultural exchange embodies the spirit of this honor. As Director of the Crow Museum of Asian Art, she 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 becoming executive director in 2002, Hofland 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.
One notable example of this bridge-building is the 2026 Mochitsuki Japanese New Year celebration on January 11, where the Crow Museum of Asian Art and the University of Texas at Dallas Center for Asian Studies collaborated with JASDFW. The event 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.
Hofland's 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. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on the Dallas Arts District and the broader international cultural landscape.
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. For sponsorship opportunities, visit JASDFW sponsorship page.
