On June 9, the OIST Foundation welcomed guests to a special reception in New York celebrating the power of science to strengthen the relationship between Japan and the United States. Graciously hosted at the Residence of the Consul General of Japan in New York, the evening brought together leaders from academia, philanthropy, business, and the Japanese-American community to learn more about OIST and the Foundation’s mission to support its world-class research and educational programs.
The program featured welcoming remarks from Ambassador Satoshi Katahira, Consul General of Japan in New York, and Takeshi Ueshima, Chairman of the OIST Foundation Board of Trustees. Guests also heard an inspiring keynote presentation from Dr. Yuko Kakazu, OIST Foundation Trustee and internationally respected astronomer, who shared her personal journey from growing up in Okinawa to building a distinguished career in astronomy and space science.
Dr. Kakazu’s story demonstrated how scientific curiosity, educational opportunity, and international collaboration can transform lives while building stronger connections between Japan and the United States. Her message, including her encouragement to young women to “Girls, Be Ambitious,” resonated deeply with attendees and perfectly reflected OIST’s commitment to developing the next generation of global scientific leaders.
Following the program, guests enjoyed an evening of Japanese cuisine, conversation, and networking while learning more about OIST’s groundbreaking research and the Foundation’s growing efforts to expand awareness and philanthropic support throughout the United States.
The reception received enthusiastic feedback from attendees and the Consulate General. Following the event, one representative from the Ambassador’s office shared:
“I was particularly impressed by Dr. Kakazu’s remarks on what inspired her interest in science and technology, as well as her powerful message, ‘Girls, Be Ambitious.’ Thanks to your efforts and those of everyone involved, the event provided a truly meaningful opportunity, and we were honored to be a part of it.”
The OIST Foundation is deeply grateful to the Consulate General of Japan in New York for graciously hosting this memorable evening, to Ambassador Katahira for his warm welcome, to Chairman Takeshi Ueshima for his leadership, and to Dr. Yuko Kakazu for sharing her inspiring story. Events like this help build awareness of OIST while fostering new relationships that advance scientific collaboration and strengthen the enduring friendship between Japan and the United States.