Holiday Gala at the Colombian Embassy

By Annabel Stewart, December 11, 2023

On Friday December 8th the Colombian Ambassador Luis Gilberto Murillo hosted a gala dinner for the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW) to benefit the AAFSW Crisis Fund and the George Washington University Hospital Women’s’ Board for critical care programs Hospital patients’ families, at his beautiful residence for an evening of dining, and celebrating the holidays.

The Colombian Deputy Chief of Mission Mr. David Avila, representing Ambassador Luis Gilberto Murillo Urrutia, provided opening remarks welcoming the guests and highlighting the 200 years of friendship between the United States and Colombia.  Ms. Shelia Switzer, Program Chair of AAFSW welcomed the attendees, along with AAFSW President Celine Ford and Malaysian Ambassador Dato Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz. 

The elegantly attired guests experienced the historic elegance of the Ambassador’s residence as well as the festive holiday decor.  Following cocktails, attendees enjoyed a succulent dinner and dessert as well as a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus from the North Pole. Robin Phillips enlightened us with Spanish singing.  A silent auction was also held in support of charities.

After dinner, the party continued with dancing to both Latin and contemporary music.  Everyone was on their feet moving to the beat and sounds of the evening melodies.  

Many thanks to both the Colombian ambassador for hosting this special holiday event and to Shelia Switzer’s team for organizing the event.  Wishing you and your families happy holidays and a prosperous new year 2024.