JET Alumni Association Rocky Mountain Chapter (JETAARM) New Year’s Gathering Held in Denver (January 24, 2026)

On January 24th, the JET Alumni Association Rocky Mountain Chapter (JETAARM) held its annual New Year’s gathering in Denver, with Consul-General Okajima and other consular staff in attendance.

This year, 2026, marks the 40th anniversary of the JET Program—a significant milestone in the promotion of U.S.-Japan exchange. In his remarks, CG Okajima expressed his gratitude for the vital role the JET Program has played in fostering mutual understanding between our countries, as well as for JETAARM’s ongoing contributions to the local community.

The event was held at a restaurant owned by JET alumni and brought together around 40 alumni and guests, including six successive JETAARM presidents, for an evening of reconnecting and networking.

During the gathering, Mr. David LaCharite, who has served as chapter president for four years, announced that he will be passing the baton to a new president, Mr. Brad Breiten, later this year. We look forward to continued partnership with JETAARM and to further strengthening Japan-U.S. relations in the region together.

We wish everyone a wonderful year ahead!