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In Remembrance of Griffith Way

Griffith Way (1920 - 2018)

September 6, 2018

Griffith Way, a lawyer in both the United States and Japan and a long-time collector of Japanese art, passed away on July 27, 2018. Griff was for decades a friend to the Japan Studies Program. His work as Trustee for the Blakemore Foundation, and his service on the Jackson School’s Visiting Committee were just two of his many achievements in a 50-year career devoted to improving relations between Japan and the United States. His influence lives on in countless others whose lives he helped shape through his naval career, professional life, and volunteerism in support of education and cultural learning. (Obituary at Seattle Times, August 29, 2018.)

Among the many accolades he received during his life was the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette, bestowed by His Majesty Akihito, the Emperor of Japan, on April 29, 2007, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to developing economic and cultural exchanges between Japan and the United States.

“Griff Way’s deep commitment in Japan, and in U.S.-Japan relations, is reflected also in his involvement in educating the next generation of Japan specialists,” says Jackson School Director Reşat Kasaba. “Today, thanks to the Way family’s generosity, Jackson School students have a chance to hear from some of the top Japan scholars who come to Seattle to deliver the annual Griffith and Patricia Way Endowed Lecture.”

At his family’s request, remembrances may be directed to the endowed lecture fund at the link below.

Give to the Way Lecture