Japan Society today announced that Katherine “Kemy” Monahan has been elected by its Board of Directors as the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer. She will assume the role in August.
Monahan brings more than three decades of senior diplomatic and institutional leadership experience across the U.S.–Japan relationship and the broader Asia Pacific region. Most recently, she served as Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. Her prior roles include Director for East Asia at the White House National Security Council and Director of the Office of Japanese Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. She also served as an Adjunct Lecturer, Visiting Scholar and Japan Program Fellow at Stanford University, continuing her longstanding engagement with Japan’s culture and global role.
Her appointment follows a comprehensive search led by the Board of Directors. In selecting Monahan, the Board sought a leader with strategic vision, operational discipline and experience guiding complex organizations, as well as a deep understanding of Japan’s critical importance amid shifting geopolitical and economic dynamics.
“Kemy is an exceptional leader whose experience, judgment and lifelong commitment to Japan make her uniquely suited to lead Japan Society,” said Merit E. Janow, Chair of the Board of Directors. “She has led large and diverse teams, built enduring trust across institutions and advanced meaningful engagement among government, business and civil society. At a time when Japan’s role in economic resilience, democratic values, technological innovation and cultural vitality is more central than ever, Kemy brings the global perspective and intellectual rigor required to strengthen Japan Society’s position as the premier platform for engagement with Japan in a global context.”
Monahan succeeds Joshua W. Walker, Ph.D., Japan Society’s outgoing President and CEO. The Board extends its deepest gratitude to Walker for his leadership and dedication, and for his work to expand the Society’s reach, strengthen its visibility and impact, and champion the importance of the U.S.-Japan relationship. He will remain a valued member of the Japan Society community.
As President and CEO, Monahan will oversee Japan Society’s work across the performing arts, visual arts, film, business and policy programs and convenings, education and language. Founded in 1907, Japan Society connects American and Japanese people, cultures and societies through a global lens, serving as a vital forum for exchange in New York and around the world.
“I am honored to join Japan Society and grateful to the Board for its confidence,” said Monahan. “Japan has been a defining part of my life and career. For more than a century, Japan Society has brought together leaders, artists, thinkers and communities, championed artistic excellence and fostered meaningful connections across borders. At a moment of profound geopolitical and economic change, its mission is more important than ever. I look forward to working with the Board, staff, members and partners to build on this extraordinary legacy and expand the Society’s impact for the next generation.”
Monahan’s leadership builds on Japan Society’s historic role while positioning the institution to expand its global influence at a pivotal time in global affairs.
About Japan Society
Japan Society is the premier organization connecting Japanese arts, culture, language, business, and society with audiences in New York and the world.
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