2025-2026 AAFSW-DACOR Awards Ceremony

AAFSW and DACOR held their joint awards ceremony on October 27, 2026, to recognize community members for exceptional volunteer service that strengthens our communities. We are deeply grateful to DACOR for hosting the event in the magnificent and historic Bacon House, and to DACOR President Ambassador Thomas A. Shannon, Jr. for opening the ceremony with a warm speech.

Eleanor Dodson Tragen Award: Sponsored and administered by DACOR, the Eleanor Dodson Tragen Award recognized Catherine Pierce (2025) and Lara Center (2026).

Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA): Among the  (SOSA) winners announced in 2025, three were able to attend: Sam Bunch, Jennifer Sturgeon, and Wiley Skaret. We thank their respective bureaus (AF, EUR, and WHA) for their generous participation.

Champions of Career Enhancement for EFMs Award (CCE-EFM): The presentation of the CCE-EFM Award recognized 2025 co-winners David Willey and Esperanza Jones-Salazar (represented at the ceremony), followed by 2026 winner Kat Ravetz.

Lesley Dorman Award: The presentation of the 2025 Lesley Dorman Award to Edward Pierce was followed by the 2026 Dorman Award, presented posthumously to Moises Mendoza. His husband, mother, father, and sister were present to honor his memory in a moving tribute.

*Note: The 2025 Award Ceremony did not happen due to a government shutdown. 

Photo Gallery and Video

Scroll down to view award photo highlights and watch the ceremony at DACOR Bacon House. 

All photo credits: Jenifer Morris Photography