Foreign Minister’s Commendation
Former San Mateo Nippon Gakuyen Chairperson Kozo Kimura Selected for Foreign Minister’s Commendation
September 24, 2026 — Today, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan announced the recipients of the Foreign Minister’s Commendation. Among the honorees is Mr. Kozo Kimura, former Chairperson of the Board of San Mateo Nippon Gakuyen (San Mateo Japanese School). Mr. Kimura is being recognized for his distinguished contributions promoting mutual understanding and friendship between Japan and the United States.
Over the past three decades, Mr. Kimura has been deeply involved in the administration of San Mateo Nippon Gakuyen, working tirelessly to expand and advance Japanese-language education for local Japanese American communities and American students alike. He has also served as President of the HOKKA NICHI BEI KAI (also known as JAANC: Japanese American Association of Northern California) and as President of the Kagoshima Prefectural Association of Northern California, among other roles. Through this wide range of activities, Mr. Kimura has made significant contributions to strengthening ties and fostering goodwill between Japan and the United States.
The Foreign Minister’s Commendation honors individuals and organizations with particularly outstanding achievements in various fields that contribute to international relations. The commendations recognize those who have made significant contributions to the friendship and goodwill between Japan and other countries, while also encouraging broader public understanding and support for their activities across all sectors of society.