Yori Oda, a decorated teacher who taught Japanese at Harvard University for 35 years, died earlier this month after a recent illness. She was 82.

In 2013, Oda was awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays, by Emperor Akihito in recognition of her significant lifelong contributions.

In 2004, in recognition of her significant contribution to the promotion of cultural exchanges between Japan and the United States, Oda was awarded a special Minister of Foreign Affairs commendation by the government.