Photo by Akiko Sato, courtesy of the Consulate-General of Japan in Houston
Japan-America Society of Houston (JASH) Board Member Miwa Sakashita has received a commendation from Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi in recognition of her contributions to the promotion of mutual understanding between Japan and the United States in Houston.
Consul General Hirofumi Murabayashi presented the commendation certificate and commemorative gift to Mrs. Sakashita at a reception held at the Official Residence on December 9, 2022. Mrs. Sakashita’s efforts were also celebrated with remarks from JASH President Laird Doran, The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Director Gary Tinterow and Houston Symphony Executive Director and CEO John Mangum.
Miwa Sakashita is a longstanding member of the Board of Directors of JASH. Over her many years of service to the organization, Mrs. Sakashita has chaired countless JASH galas, chaired the JASH Program Committee and chaired the Houston-Chiba Sister City Committee. Through her numerous roles, she has brought to Houston Japanese musicians and artists, has created new partnerships for JASH with schools and organizations, and has opened her home to a multitude of guests for receptions and dinners.
Moreover, Mrs. Sakashita, along with her husband Dr. John Stroehlein, have supported Japanese physicians pursuing fellowships at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and have housed countless visitors from Japan.
One of Mrs. Sakashita’s greatest sources of pride is having been involved in the launch of Japan Festival Houston, and she is known for working tirelessly at the event.
JASH is grateful for Mrs. Sakashita’s support, and we congratulate her on her receipt of the 2022 Japanese Foreign Minister’s Commendation.