The 26th annual Japan-American Grassroots Summit is currently in process. Held between October 4th and 11th it is being hosted in part by the University of North Georgia in order to promote the institution’s new academic degree in Japanese studies. There are 130 Japanese visitors at the summit this year. Around 30 Japanese guests will be hosted by the UNG. These individuals will be able to participate in cultural events taking place in Atlanta. Following that, they will go to their host families around the globe (Athens, Dahlonega and Gainesville).
Meanwhile, over in Minnesota, the Japan American Society of Minnesota’s Professional Group is likewise promoting cohesion between the two regions. Its career event that was held at the end of August was set up in order to “connect Japan-related business professionals from various fields to both college students and recent graduates who are pursuing Japan-focused careers.” At the end of this month, on October 26th, the JASM will be hosting a Corporate Roundtable with JETRO Chicago’s Chief Executive Director, Ichiro Sone “to promote mutual trade and investment between Japan the rest of the world.”
AT the UNG event, Dr. Edward Mienie, UNG’s associate vice president for economic development and community engagement, and chair of UNG’s Regional Education and Economic Development Committee (REED) said: “This year’s summit will highlight Georgia culture and customs, local attractions, and the unique business relations between Japan and the Peach State for more than two decades, which profited $16.38 billion in 2015.”