This presentation will trace my 45-year journey of professional and personal connection with Japan. Beginning as a volunteer in Japan, I later transitioned to working as a lawyer representing Japanese companies, ultimately joining a Japanese manufacturer in 1990. In 1995, I returned to private practice, focusing on immigration matters for Japanese corporate clients. My career has been enriched by deep cultural understanding and collaboration, culminating in my appointment as Honorary Consul of Japan in Columbus. Through stories and insights, I will share how these experiences shaped my approach to legal practice, fostered lasting relationships, and contributed to bridging cultures. Attendees will gain perspective on the value of cross-cultural engagement and the importance of building trust and partnerships across borders.
David W. Cook leads Vorys’ Immigration practice. He was recently named Best Lawyers’ 2027 Columbus Lawyer of the Year in Immigration Law. His practice focuses on representing businesses and individuals in all areas of immigration law. Dave serves as Honorary Consul of Japan in Columbus. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and has served on both national and Ohio chapter committees. He frequently presents on employment-related immigration matters. Dave earned a B.A. from Brigham Young University (1985), with a major in economics and a minor in Japanese, and a J.D. from the University of Washington School of Law (1988). His community service has included serving on the Board of Advisors of Community Refugee and Immigration Services from 1995 to 2001, serving as a director of the Columbus Council on World Affairs from 2000 to 2013, and serving as president of the Rotary Club of Hilliard.
This event is co-sponsored by the Oshaberi Kai--The Japanese Conversation Club and the Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures Undergraduate
Student Organization.
