Remembering Dr. Richard J. Wood

The U.S.-Japan Bridging Foundation, CULCON, and Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission mourn the passing of esteemed member and former chair, Dr. Richard J. Wood. Dr. Wood was the founding chairman of the Bridging Foundation and continued serving on the board of directors until his passing. His commitment to cultural and educational exchange was instrumental in developing the Bridging Scholars program from a modest idea into a robust program which has helped over 1,600 U.S. undergraduate students acquire global leadership, workforce, and cultural fluency through study abroad in Japan. Dr. Wood served as chairman of the Friendship Commission from 1996 to 2000. The government of Japan awarded him The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star in recognition of his exemplary contributions to strengthening the U.S.-Japan relationship.