The Japan-America Society of Houston proudly congratulates Mrs. Akemi Saitoh, JASH Board Member and devoted advocate for Japanese culture, on receiving the prestigious Foreign Minister’s Commendation from the Government of Japan. The award was presented by The Honorable Zentaro Naganuma, Consul General of Japan in Houston, during a ceremony on Monday, December 8.
This esteemed recognition honors individuals whose work has advanced friendship and mutual understanding between Japan and the international community. For decades, Mrs. Saitoh has embodied this mission through her leadership in the arts, her commitment to cultural exchange, and her tireless efforts to deepen ties between Japan and Houston.
A Champion of Culture and the Arts
Within Houston’s arts community, Mrs. Saitoh is celebrated for her generous support and longtime service to Houston Ballet, where she and her husband, Mr. Yasuhiko Saitoh, have been dedicated advocates for more than a decade. Their philanthropy has welcomed numerous Japanese dancers into the company and helped realize Houston Ballet’s tours of Japan in 2023 and 2025.
Her commitment to nurturing cultural exchange also extends to education. Within JASH, she helped establish the Shintech–Kanagawa Fund, which for many years provided scholarships for students of the Japanese language—expanding opportunities for young learners and supporting future generations of cultural ambassadors.
Through the Yasuhiko and Akemi Saitoh Foundation, Mrs. Saitoh has further elevated Japanese artistic traditions in Houston. Most recently, the foundation loaned 25 historic kimono stencils for Asia Society Texas’ exhibition Stenciled Elegance: Ise Katagami and the Art of Textile Design, offering thousands of visitors a window into the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship.
A Bridge Between Houston and Japan
As a JASH Board Member and an “Advocate of Japanese culture,” Mrs. Saitoh has played a vital role in strengthening relationships among Houston’s Japanese community, cultural institutions, and civic partners. Her passion for the Houston–Chiba Sister City relationship has been especially meaningful, as she has championed programs that connect the two cities through dance, education, and cultural exchange—helping young people and artists build lasting ties across the Pacific.
Her dedication has been recognized abroad as well. The Honorable Shunichi Kamiya, Mayor of Chiba City, sent greetings in honor of her award, expressing gratitude for her efforts to strengthen Houston–Chiba ties, particularly through workshops in Chiba led by members of Houston Ballet.
A Legacy That Inspires
Mrs. Saitoh’s recognition highlights not just her generosity, but her hands-on dedication as a cultural ambassador. Her behind-the-scenes work—welcoming artists, supporting youth programs, and promoting authentic cultural experiences—has created lasting pathways for exchange.
Her example inspires future generations to continue building bridges between Japan, Houston, and the world.