The 45th Anniversary Sister City Series: Utsunomiya
For more than 30 years, the connection between Tulsa and Utsunomiya has grown through shared meals, student exchanges, and quiet moments of cultural discovery. It is a partnership rooted in everyday experiences and strengthened by the people who show up year after year to keep it going.
As our summer fundraiser continues, we are proud to highlight the Tulsa–Utsunomiya partnership, where student exchanges and enriching community events create lasting friendships and life-changing experiences.
Meet the Chair: Phil Sharp
Before Phil had even finished unpacking in Tulsa, he reached out to get involved with the Utsunomiya Sister City program. Now serving as chair, Phil brings passion, creativity, and personal experience to the role. His life was forever changed by a high school exchange with Japan, an experience that sparked decades of cultural connection, a degree in Japan Studies, a job at PlayStation, and now, heartfelt leadership in Tulsa Global Alliance.
But Phil is also quick to remind us that stories like his are not always as tidy as they sound:
“I’d like to briefly address the reader: this selective description of my background might wrongly give you the impression that I’m some dynamic busybody whose life is a highlight reel of accomplishment. Nothing could be further from the truth. I’ve lived with major depression most of my life, and on most days, even getting dressed can be profoundly difficult. I say this because I want everyone to know that they can help out and make a difference, even when in the throes of battle with mental illness. No contribution is too small. Every moment of engagement can bring positive change and personal fulfillment—perhaps more than you realize. And even during the days or weeks when you feel you have nothing to give, remember you are loved and valued. Causes like ours will always welcome your help when, and to the extent, that you’re able.”
The Legacy That Led Here
Phil follows in the footsteps of Micah Keyan, current Executive Director of Tulsa Global Alliance, who led the Utsunomiya Sister City partnership for nearly a decade. Micah’s involvement began in 2014, when he helped build a Japanese tea house for TGA’s Kids World. In 2015, he traveled to Japan on a reciprocal homestay program that became the foundation for years of exchange and connection.
“What made this exchange so powerful for me was that it went both ways. I got to visit Japan, but then my host brothers came to stay with us. We visited them again later. It wasn’t just a one-time trip, it became a connection that continues to this day.”
Over the course of nearly a decade, Micah hosted countless students, coordinated reciprocal visits, and helped share Japanese culture throughout Tulsa. His work built a strong foundation for the thriving program that Phil now leads.
“What Phil has done is remarkable,” Micah added. “This kind of volunteer leadership takes time, generosity, and a lot of heart. He found something here that gives him purpose and connection, and that means everything.”
Why It Matters
The Tulsa–Utsunomiya connection is one of Tulsa Global Alliance’s most consistent examples of youth diplomacy in action. In March 2024, we resumed hosting junior high students and their chaperones from Utsunomiya after pandemic disruptions. These visiting students stay with Tulsa families, attend school, and participate in cultural outings across the city. Local students also benefit. A pen pal program, created in partnership with Gathering Place, connects Tulsa youth with their peers in Japan. This type of exchange fosters curiosity, empathy, and a sense of global citizenship that can last a lifetime.
Utsunomiya’s presence extends beyond exchange week. From festivals to film screenings, the partnership enriches our city with vibrant cultural programming year-round.
Recent Highlights
March 2024: Hosted 15 junior high students and 3 chaperones from Utsunomiya for a week of exchange and cultural connection
Spring–Summer 2024: Coordinated Japanese cultural programming with Gathering Place, Tulsa Botanic Garden, and Philbrook Museum
Film Screenings: Collaborated with Circle Cinema on “Perfect Days” and a sold-out 70th anniversary screening of Godzilla with Dr. Bill Tsutsui
August 2022: At World in a Box Day, over 1,100 students and family members explored Japanese culture alongside global stations
January 2024: Represented Japan at the EIS International Fair, reaching more than 500 students
30th Anniversary (2022): Celebrated with mayoral video greetings, a commemorative beer from Marshall Brewing Company, and a Japanese tea ceremony hosted by the Japan-America Society
Fall 2022: Supported the Mayor’s Consular Reception and appointment of Dewey Bartlett as Honorary Consul for Japan
