Caroline Kennedy Returns to the Board of the U.S.-Japan Foundation for Enhanced Bilateral Ties

Caroline Kennedy, the distinguished diplomat and author, has made her return to the United States-Japan Foundation (USJF) Board of Trustees, a role she previously held from 2017 until her departure in 2022. Kennedy is perhaps best known for her impactful tenure as the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, a position she occupied from 2013 to 2017. During her time as ambassador, she played a pivotal role in several high-stakes diplomatic engagements, including commemorating the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. This significant event saw historic visits by President Barack Obama to Hiroshima and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to Pearl Harbor, both actions aimed at reinforcing peace and mutual understanding between the two nations.

In addition to these high-profile engagements, Kennedy was instrumental in promoting initiatives that advanced the realignment of U.S. military forces in Okinawa while advocating for women’s empowerment and enhancing student exchange programs between the U.S. and Japan. Her efforts were formally recognized when she was honored with the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun in November 2021, a prestigious accolade that underscores her commitment to deepening U.S.-Japan relations.

Upon her departure from USJF in 2022, Kennedy was appointed as U.S. Ambassador to Australia, where she continued her work in strengthening American alliances in the Asia-Pacific region. While in Australia, her dedication to international cooperation culminated in initiatives like the AUKUS partnership involving Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Under her leadership, efforts to tackle health issues, such as the launch of the Quad Cancer Moonshot aimed at reducing cervical cancer in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, were established.

Kennedy expressed her enthusiasm upon rejoining the board, stating, "I am honored to rejoin the board of the U.S.-Japan Foundation. Few organizations have done so much to strengthen ties between the people of our two great democracies. I am excited about the chance to expand that work and engage new generations in solving our common challenges." This expresses her commitment not only to furthering the Foundation’s mission but also to inspiring the youth to engage in diplomatic efforts that impact the future.

Her reappointment comes at a crucial time as the USJF seeks to redefine its mission while enhancing its social impact. Board Chair Lawrence K. Fish remarked on Kennedy's extraordinary track record during her previous term, indicating that her unique insights into diplomacy and public service will be invaluable as they navigate contemporary challenges.

The USJF, established in 1980, has delivered over $100 million in grants and operates the U.S.-Japan Leadership Program, which maintains a network of 500 fellows from both countries. Kennedy acknowledges the Foundation’s remarkable contributions and aims to build on this legacy, recalling a memorable past experience cycling along the Shimanami Kaido during a leadership program, symbolizing the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational and cultural exchanges.

Kennedy's background isn't solely confined to diplomatic services; she has been actively involved in various non-profit boards and has championed numerous public-private partnerships. She played a significant role as Vice Chair of the NYC Fund for Public Schools, enhancing private sector support for education, particularly in the arts and leadership training.

With her experience and dedication, Caroline Kennedy's return to the US-Japan Foundation promises to invigorate ongoing initiatives and expand the scope of cultural and educational exchanges, ensuring that the bonds between the U.S. and Japan remain strong and beneficial for future generations.

Currently, Kennedy joins a board comprised of notable figures, indicating a diverse set of expertise and perspectives that will allow the Foundation to thrive amid changing global landscapes. The involvement of celebrated personalities like architect Kazuyo Sejima and social entrepreneur Lin Kobayashi highlights the Foundation's commitment to incorporate various fields into its diplomatic outreach, ensuring a holistic approach to fostering U.S.-Japan relations. As she steps into this role, Kennedy's leadership will be critical in shaping strategies that resonate with the modern challenges faced by both nations.

Topics People & Culture)

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