Japan Society of Northern California’s 40th Annual Award of Honor Gala
2026/10/20
Remarks by Consul General Otsuki
JSNC President Steve Pollock and Board Chair Suzanne Basalla
On Thursday, October 8, Consul General Kotaro Otsuki attended the Japan Society of Northern California (JSNC)’s 40th Annual Award of Honor Gala at Grand Hyatt at SFO, giving remarks and a toast during the program. The Gala was also joined by State Assemblymember Catherine Stefani, Santa Clara County Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga, and Mountain View City Councilmember Ellen Kamei.
The Award of Honor, given to individuals who have contributed to the promotion of U.S.-Japan relations, was presented this year to SanDisk, represented by Chairman & CEO Mr. David Goeckeler. Other awardees include; the World Visionary Award presented to Netflix and Co-CEO Mr. Greg Peters; the Cultural Ambassador Award presented to TOHO, CO., LTD. and President & CEO Mr Hiro Matsuoka; and the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to JSNC Board Director Ms. Kathleen Kimura, MBE.
In his remarks, Consul General Otsuki congratulated this year’s honorees and expressed his appreciation to JSNC for creating engaging opportunities over the years to form greater understanding between Japan and California. He also emphasized that the JSNC is among the Consulate’s most valued partners and serves as a tremendous platform in a variety of fields connecting people with people.
For more information on the Japan Society of Northern California, please see their website: https://www.usajapan.org/
The Award of Honor, given to individuals who have contributed to the promotion of U.S.-Japan relations, was presented this year to SanDisk, represented by Chairman & CEO Mr. David Goeckeler. Other awardees include; the World Visionary Award presented to Netflix and Co-CEO Mr. Greg Peters; the Cultural Ambassador Award presented to TOHO, CO., LTD. and President & CEO Mr Hiro Matsuoka; and the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to JSNC Board Director Ms. Kathleen Kimura, MBE.
In his remarks, Consul General Otsuki congratulated this year’s honorees and expressed his appreciation to JSNC for creating engaging opportunities over the years to form greater understanding between Japan and California. He also emphasized that the JSNC is among the Consulate’s most valued partners and serves as a tremendous platform in a variety of fields connecting people with people.
For more information on the Japan Society of Northern California, please see their website: https://www.usajapan.org/
This year’s honorees
Group photo
Entertainment by Nippon Kobo
