Dr. Jerry Hiura Inspirational Awards
Celebrating creativity and community through the legacy of Dr. Jerry Hiura
About Dr. Jerry Hiura
Dr. Jerrold “Jerry” Hiura was born in Chicago and moved to San Jose at seven, where he thrived academically and in leadership. He earned degrees from UC Berkeley, Harvard, and Washington University before joining his father’s San Jose dental practice, which he later expanded with pride.
Beyond dentistry, Jerry was a fierce advocate for multicultural arts. He co-founded CATS and the Japantown Community Congress, championed public arts projects, and served in leadership roles with the San Jose Arts Commission, Arts Council of Silicon Valley, and California State Arts Council. He was also a trustee for the San Jose Museum of Art and supported the intersection of Japanese and Vietnamese American art through Chopsticks Alley Art.
An artist himself, Jerry explored painting, poetry, editing, and even jewelry design, publishing The Hawk’s Well in 1986. He also loved playing guitar and golf. A visionary, humanitarian, and creative force, his legacy continues to inspire all who knew him.
Check out his website here to learn more about Dr. Jerry Hiura and further explore his art.
2025 Dr. Jerry Hiura Inspirational Award
The Dr. Jerry Hiura Inspirational Award invites high school and college students in the Bay Area to showcase their creativity in any medium—whether it’s drawing, painting, photography, dance, video, music, or mixed media. Submissions typically open from early May to August. Stay tuned for updates later this year, and check back here for details on how to enter!
Previous Dr. Jerry Hiura Inspirational Awards
