On October 10, 2025, two days before the 18th anniversary of his passing, Anaheim University proudly commemorated the enduring legacy of Dr. Kisho Kurokawa, the renowned Japanese architect and sustainability pioneer for whom the Anaheim University Kisho Kurokawa Green Institute is named, during the Japan–United States Leadership Summit held in October 2025. The tribute and summit were held at the United Nations University in Tokyo. 

The summit brought together California and Japanese civic leaders, including mayors, city council members, county administrators, planners, and architects to advance collaborative strategies for a more sustainable future. A central theme of the event was environmental stewardship and cross-border leadership — ideals closely aligned with Dr. Kurokawa’s lifelong work and philosophy.

Dr. Kurokawa (1934–2007) was one of Japan’s most influential architects and a founder of the Metabolist Movement, a visionary approach to design that emphasized flexibility, ecology, and the symbiosis between built environments and living systems. His internationally acclaimed works — including the Nakagin Capsule Tower, The National Art Center (Tokyo), and the Kuala Lumpur International Airport — reflect a commitment to sustainable, adaptive architecture.

Beyond his architectural achievements, Dr. Kurokawa was a staunch advocate for environmental responsibility. In the final chapter of his life, he championed sustainability and ecological design. In 2008, the Kisho Kurokawa Green Institute was established at Anaheim University. Today, the Institute carries forward his vision by offering online degrees, diplomas, and certificates in Sustainable Management, empowering global leaders to integrate environmental and social considerations into business strategy.

The tribute at the summit highlighted Dr. Kurokawa’s enduring influence on sustainability and international collaboration, recognizing not only his architectural legacy but also his profound belief in shaping a more balanced and resilient future through education and leadership. Dr. Yuri Konno, CEO of Dial Service who served as Vice-Chair of the Anaheim University Executive Advisory Board during Dr. Kurokawa’s tenure as Chair, offered reflections on his visionary leadership. Mr. Mikio Kurokawa, son of Dr. Kisho Kurokawa, also paid tribute, underscoring the lasting global impact of his father’s work and ideals.

The two-day event also featured Paul Tange of the University of Tokyo, son of Kisho Kurokawa’s mentor, the late Kenzo Tange, who designed the United Nations University building in Tokyo, as well as Pritzker Prize laureate Shigeru Ban.

As global leaders convened to address today’s environmental challenges, Anaheim University reaffirms its commitment to Dr. Kurokawa’s ideals by advancing accessible education that promotes responsible, sustainable management practices throughout the world.