Announcing the 2026-2027 Bridging Scholars Cohort

Dear Friends,

I am delighted to introduce our Fall 2026 Bridging Scholars cohort! This academic year, 76 remarkable students will study in Japan—55 beginning their journeys this fall and 21 heading over in the spring. We recently connected with our new scholars during a virtual orientation on August 10, and many of our fall and yearlong participants are already settling into life in Japan. Wishing all of them an inspiring and successful semester ahead!

This year’s group is filled with academically driven students deeply passionate about Japan. Many aspire to careers that will help strengthen ties between our two countries, and their enthusiasm for cross-cultural exchange is inspiring. In these times, fostering these connections is more important than ever.

Thank you to the entire Bridging Foundation community for making these life-changing opportunities possible. Your support enables talented undergraduates to experience Japan, creating lasting impact for both our students and the future of U.S.-Japan relations.

With sincere appreciation,

Tom Mason
Executive Director

Zoom Orientation for the Fall 2026 Cohort was held August 10, 2026.