The Center for Professional Exchange (CEPEX) was originally established in 2005. In the past ten years, the organization has successfully upheld the mission of supporting young Americans interested in Japan and young Japanese professionals in Washington, DC. CEPEX has held numerous educational events and conferences at Vanderbilt University, Georgetown University, Florida International University, University of Colorado at Boulder, Emory University, and George Mason University.  CEPEX also created a flagship program called the Japan Studies Award, which provides a unique, hands-on internship opportunity in a Japanese trade and investment office in Washington, DC, plus a 10-day internship experience at the Tokyo headquarters. CEPEX has had the the privilege of hosting a number of special events and receptions for visiting Japanese leaders including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, delegations from Keizai Doyukai  (Japan Association of Corporate Executives), and First Lady Akie Abe, connecting them with DC-area Japan hands and JET Program alumni.

The original charter was set for a period of ten years. As we look at the state of U.S. and Japan relations, we perceive the need for our mission to help cultivate the next generation of Japan hands, and provide an organizing partner for our Japanese counterparts, remains as strong as ever. With this in mind, CEPEX has extended the charter for another ten years, to December 31, 2025. We will continue to seek opportunities to help develop stronger relationships between the U.S. and Japan and encourage a new generation of thought leaders.