For generations, Tennessee and Japan have built an extraordinary relationship through friendship, education, business, innovation, culture, and person-to-person connections. Now, we’re inviting Tennessee students to help carry that relationship forward.

The Takahashi/Alexander Scholarship Program, sponsored by the Tennessee World Affairs Council, Mission Value Partners, and Thierry Porte, challenges students to explore the people, ideas, and partnerships that have shaped Tennessee–Japan relations, and share their own vision for its future.

Students 13 and older who study in Tennessee are invited to submit an original essay of 500 words or fewer exploring one of seven areas of Tennessee–Japan cooperation: Diplomacy, STEM, Communications, National Defense, Business/Agriculture, Culture, or the special Sensei category honoring Japanese language teachers.

Seven winners will receive:

• A scholarship of at least $700
• An exclusive invitation to a special reception in Nashville
• The opportunity to meet fellow scholars and individuals who helped forge Tennessee’s remarkable relationship with Japan

Students can research an influential figure, highlight someone making a difference in their own community, or propose a new idea for strengthening Tennessee–Japan collaboration in the years ahead.

Important Dates:

• Application Deadline: Noon on October 1, 2026
• Winners Announced: By October 15, 2026
• Special Reception: October 27, 2026

Final submissions must be emailed to takahashialexanderscholars@gmail.com to be considered.

This is more than a scholarship. It’s an opportunity for young Tennesseans to discover an important part of our state’s global story, and imagine what comes next.