Alumni Leaders

Kono Taro ’82
2025 Alumni Leadership Award Recipient | April 28
We are pleased to welcome Kono Taro ’82 back to Suffield Academy as this year’s recipient of the Alumni Leadership Award. Mr. Kono has remained a proud member of the Suffield community since his time on campus, and it is a privilege to recognize his many contributions to public service. His return to Suffield is a special occasion for all of us, and we’re grateful he will make the long journey from Japan to be here in person.

This award honors alumni who have demonstrated strong leadership and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Mr. Kono’s career reflects those qualities, and we are proud to count him among our distinguished graduates. We look forward to celebrating his achievements and welcoming him back to a place that played a role in his early development.

More About Kono Taro
Born on January 10, 1963, Kono Taro hails from a distinguished lineage of Japanese statesmen. His father, Kono Yohei, once presided over the Liberal Democratic Party [LDP] and served as Speaker of the House of Representatives. His grandfather, Kono Ichiro, and great-uncle, Kono Kenzo, also left indelible marks on Japan's political landscape. Kono’s academic journey led him abroad to Suffield Academy and Georgetown University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service in 1985. This international exposure broadened his horizons, laying the foundation for a career that would intertwine domestic governance with global diplomacy.

Embarking on his political career in 1996, Kono secured a seat in the House of Representatives, representing Kanagawa’s 15th district. His tenure has been marked by a series of pivotal roles: from overseeing administrative and regulatory reforms to steering the nation’s defense and foreign affairs. As Foreign Minister, he navigated complex international waters, addressing trade disputes and fortifying alliances. His subsequent appointment as Defense Minister saw him making decisive choices, including the notable cancellation of the Aegis Ashore missile defense system. In the realm of digital transformation, Kono championed the modernization of Japan’s bureaucratic machinery, striving to eliminate antiquated practices and usher in an era of efficiency.

Kono’s political ethos is a tapestry of tradition and progress. While rooted in the conservative LDP, he has often ventured beyond conventional boundaries, advocating for same-sex marriage and a more inclusive immigration policy. His fluency in English and adeptness with social media have amplified his voice, resonating with both domestic and international audiences. Kono’s unwavering commitment to a resilient national defense and a free, open Indo-Pacific underscores his vision for Japan's future—a harmonious blend of time-honored values and forward-thinking initiatives.