News

On a bright and beautiful June afternoon, members and guests of the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide gathered at the distinguished residence of the Bahraini Ambassador for an unforgettable cultural event hosted by Her Excellency Shaikha Aisha Alkhalifa. The elegant home and picturesque setting offered a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making the occasion truly special.

A Cultural Welcome Under the Tent

Despite weeks of rain in Northern Virginia, the weather gave way on June 4th, allowing introductions and the cultural welcome to take place outdoors, in a beautifully appointed Bahraini tent complete with white carpet. The setting—evocative of a traditional Bahraini majlis—set the perfect tone for the afternoon.

Guests enjoyed a cultural presentation that explored the significance of dates in Bahraini cuisine and customs, accompanied by a tasting of traditional pastries infused with dates and turmeric, as well as a refreshing saffron drink known as Sharbat Zafran. The presentation also highlighted Green Bar, a women-led Bahraini brand known for its natural soaps and cosmetics inspired by regional botanicals—an inspiring example of tradition meeting innovation.

A Taste of Bahrain

The luncheon that followed reflected the vibrant spirit and refined flavors of Bahraini cuisine. Guests were served a variety of hors d’oeuvres, including cheese and vegetable samboosas, Bahraini-style vegetable kebabs, hummus topped with beef tikka and pomegranate, and beetroot tabbouleh elegantly presented in bread cups. The main course featured pan-seared grouper laid over a bed of musley rice, accompanied by sautéed zucchini and delicately finished with a hint of saffron. The combination of textures and spices offered a memorable culinary experience that delighted every palate.

Gratitude and Reflection

The afternoon concluded with a festive raffle—congratulations to our lucky winners, Johanna Nutter and Fatima Ospowicz!

This cultural gathering was more than a luncheon; it was a meaningful celebration of friendship, diplomacy, and the power of cultural exchange. Through the gracious hosting of H.E. Shaikha Aisha Alkhalifa and the thoughtful coordination of Sheila Switzer, guests were offered a warm and enriching glimpse into the beauty and soul of Bahraini tradition.

A heartfelt thank you to all who helped make this afternoon such a memorable experience.

Bee Borden 

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Ambassador Petra Schneebauer warmly welcomed AASFW guests to the Austrian Embassy in Washington, DC on April 29, 2025, for an unforgettable cultural program of music, memory, and international connection. The event opened with the inauguration of the exhibition Controlled Freedom: The Allied Forces in Vienna 1945–1955. With an introduction by curator Professor Oliver Rathkolb, Ambassador Schneebauer officiated the unveiling of this powerful installation in the embassy’s atrium.

Made possible with the support of the Austrian Marshall Plan Foundation and on view at the Wien Museum, the exhibition explores Vienna’s postwar transformation and shows how the city revived its cultural life quickly after liberation, despite hardship and devastation. As Allied forces brought both challenges and unprecedented artistic influence, this period helped shape Austria’s independent democratic identity, and the exhibition captures that remarkable story with clarity and depth.

Following this moving presentation, guests gathered for a recital hosted by the Austrian Cultural Forum. Celebrated Austrian soprano Dr. Lydia Rathkolb, accompanied by American pianist Mark Irchai, performed selections from the first Salzburg Festival song recital after World War II. The program featured timeless works by W.A. Mozart and Franz Schubert, alongside deeply evocative pieces by exiled and persecuted composers including Gustav Mahler, Erich Zeisl, and Leonard Bernstein.

The program offered a thoughtful reflection on resilience, creativity, and cultural legacy—values shared across generations and borders. AAFSW extends its deepest thanks to the Austrian Embassy, the performers, and all our members and guests who made this meaningful program so memorable.

Celine Ford

April 30, 2025

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Dear AAFSW Members and Friends,

As our engagement with the Foreign Affairs and international development communities grows, AAFSW continues to meet this moment of transition with purpose and resolve. Recent developments highlight our evolving role as a trusted connector, advocate, and anchor for families and professionals navigating complex changes, particularly as the U.S. international development landscape shifts.

Our work with the Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO) and the U.S. Department of State reflects our shared commitment to supporting Foreign Service families. Together, we seek improving communication, enhancing our collaboration, and strengthening core programs like the Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA) Scholarships, or the Spouses in Crisis initiative. AAFSW stays a trusted channel for sharing concerns, surfacing challenges, and ensuring our community’s voice is heard clearly and compassionately.

Over the summer, we are stepping up to help families returning from U.S. government-affiliated international development roles. These individuals, who have served overseas for years, face sudden changes and uncertain futures. Although AAFSW does not take a stance on related policy decisions, we recognize their far-reaching impact. In response to requests from partner organizations, we have committed to creating a structured and compassionate support strategy for those returning.

Our response is threefold: prompt and sustainable logistical coordination, access to resources, and emotional support. Our goal is to design a support model flexible, humane, and rooted in real-world experience.

On May 26, 2025, we paused for Memorial Day and honored those who gave their lives in service to our country—including American diplomats who died in the line of duty. The U.S. Department of State’s memorial plaques hold the names of three hundred and twenty-one individuals who lost their lives while working in embassies and conflict zones around the world. Their courage and dedication to peace, public service, and the protection of U.S. citizens continue to guide and inspire our mission.

We also want to express our deepest gratitude to our members and friends. Whether serving abroad, returning home, volunteering your time, or advocating for others, your commitment fuels everything we do. AAFSW exists because of you—and with you, we will continue to grow stronger.

Thank you for your support, your generosity, and your unwavering belief in the power of community.

Warmly,

Celine Ford

June 2025

Make a Meaningful Impact within the Foreign Affairs Community!

Are you passionate about helping others and sharing your local knowledge? Join our Social Sponsor program and become a welcoming guide for newcomers to the DC metro area.

As a Neighborhood Sponsor, you'll be part of a WhatsApp support network where you can answer questions about your local area (neighborhoods, schools, services), share recommendations, help newcomers feel welcomed and connected to others in the Foreign Service community, and connect with other volunteers in the area.

We are Looking For Members of the U.S. Foreign Affairs Community (affiliated with the U.S. Department of State, USAID, and other agencies under Chief of Mission authority) Who Are:

• Current residents of the DC metro area, or anyone with experience navigating life in the region.

• People who enjoy helping others and sharing local knowledge

• Both current AAFSW members and non-members are welcome

Why Volunteer with AAFSW?

• Flexible commitment - participate on your own schedule.

• Build community connections - meet volunteers from the U.S. Foreign Affairs community.
• Make a real difference - help someone feel at home in a new place - like a CLO or a social sponsor at Post!
• Give back - many of us were newcomers once too.

Ready to help welcome newcomers to our community? Sign up today at https://forms.gle/4y53ctu5jzrqHV8TA. 

To help us verify your affiliation with a Foreign Affairs agency, please send an email from your official ".gov" email to office@aafsw.org with the subject line "Interest in Becoming an AAFSW Neighborhood Sponsor". If you no longer have access to your work email, please email us proof of your prior affiliation (eg. SF-50 or other documentation).

On May 22, 2025 we hosted a Community Coffee and Book Exchange in our Randolph Towers Community Room. Each guest who brought a book got to choose a different book to take home with them.

To kick things off, Art & Book Fair Chair, Anne Kauzlarich, spoke about the wonderful finds available at AAFSW's Global Books & Treasures shop in Main State. With its jewelry collection, global art pieces and hard-to-find book editions, it's a vintage shopper's dream!

Anne also spoke about AAFSW's annual Art & Book Fair which attracts thousands of shoppers to Main State each year. Set to start on October 10th this year, Anne is looking for volunteers to assist with everything from set-up, to sales, to security. If you love books, you'll jump at this opportunity! Volunteers get treated very well, and they get first dibs on the merchandise. 

To learn more, visit our website: https://aafsw.org/Art-and-BookFair. To volunteer, email us at office@aafsw.org

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On a lovely Friday afternoon in early June, AAFSW held its annual volunteer luncheon at the home of volunteer Elaine Neumann. Our Art & Book Fair Chair, Anne Kauzlarich, presented a Certificate of Appreciation to long-time Books & Global Treasures and Book Fair volunteer Sarah McKee. She also presented a special Certificate of Appreciation to Elaine Neumann for 18 years of hosting the volunteer luncheon. 

A highlight of the event was when each volunteer stood up and told the story of their history with AAFSW. From lobbying Congress for the creation of FLO (now GCLO), to creating the Foreign Service Youth Foundation, to ensuring EFMs were legal benefactors of their spouse's pensions, these veteran volunteers have had a huge impact on the daily lives of every Foreign Service family. It was an inspiration to all of us newer members and a call to strive to continue in their footsteps.

AAFSW offers many venues for volunteerism: Books & Global Treasures bookstore, annual Art & Book Fair, Evacuee Support Network, a neighborhood sponsor program, writing articles for the Global Link newsletter, and many more. Contact us for more information.

So, why not start volunteering with AAFSW today and see what impact you can make on the U.S. Foreign Service Community of tomorrow.

Join us to make a difference!

The deadline for the Secretary of State Awards for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA) has been extended to July 31, 2025. Please submit nominations using this form.

Do you know an exceptional overseas volunteer who has made a positive and lasting impact in their host country, supported morale and well-being within the Embassy or Consulate community, or helped others in an emergency? 

Please consider recognizing their work and inspiring others by submitting a nomination for this prestigious award administered by AAFSW!

Volunteer opportunities are a key to good morale and a sense of purpose at many overseas missions. And volunteers within the U.S. foreign affairs community consistently demonstrate remarkable achievements, even during a few short years at post. 

Examples from past winners include raising tens of thousands of dollars to provide needed supplies to refugees and creating an ongoing “Consular Cup” based on the tournaments in the Harry Potter book series to raise morale in Islamabad

On Thursday, May 8, 2025, AAFSW celebrated the Arts with a private visit at Misia Broadhead's and Anthony Barham's Art Studio in The Plains, Virginia.

Over 30 AAFSW members and AAFSW associates enjoyed the spectacular art and the story behind the making of every piece in the Broadhead-Barham studio.

Misia got her start in Italy where she lived for many years. Anthony Barham, besides being a painter, also restores old master paintings and works on commission specializing on the depiction of foxes and hounds. They both have active websites selling their art online.

Misia and Anthony display their paintings and prints at The Antique Gallery in Middleburg, Virginia, where our AAFSW guests enjoyed yet another private tour before lunch at three great Middleburg restaurants: Salamandra Spa Restaurant, Red Bar Sushi Restaurant, and Best Thai Kitchen Restaurant.

Lastly, everybody concluded this wonderful day by having fun with some great shopping in the beautiful shops and galleries of Middleburg.

Joanna Athanasopoulos Owen, PhD

AAFSW Public Relations and Publicity Chair

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As we reflect on Memorial Day, AAFSW remembers those who gave their lives while serving their country, including through diplomacy.

The State Department’s memorial plaques bear the names of 321 diplomats who made the ultimate sacrifice in embassies and crisis zones around the world. Their dedication to fostering peace, protecting U.S. interests, and supporting Americans abroad is a legacy that deserves recognition.

I am pleased to share these articles highlighting their contributions and sacrifices.

1. 100 Years Later, U.S. Foreign Service Is Still on the Front Lines of Diplomacy | RAND
2. After 100 years US Foreign Service remains at the forefront of diplomacy – New York Center For Foreign Policy Affairs

Sincerely,

Celine

March 2025, celebrated as Women’s History Month, offered a meaningful opportunity to honor the extraordinary contributions of women across all fields. The inspiring program at DACOR Bacon House was a true testament to the power of history, empowerment, and progress. Looking back on recent milestones, we praise the incredible influence of women within our community and beyond.

Celebrating Women’s History Month at DACOR Bacon House

The Women’s History Month program, co-hosted by DACOR and AAFSW, was a memorable event that highlighted and promoted women’s history and empowerment. This gathering highlighted the remarkable roles women have played in shaping society over the centuries, proving their exceptional vision and leadership. Special thanks to Sheila Switzer, AAFSW Programs Chair, for her dedication in making this event successful.

The historic DACOR Bacon House was the perfect setting for this celebration. Its warm hospitality, delightful luncheon, and thoughtful arrangements created a welcoming atmosphere for all attendees.

Panel Discussion: Honoring Women’s Achievements

A highlight of the program was the engaging panel discussion featuring three accomplished women who have made significant contributions to advancing women’s causes:

H.E. Shaikha Al-Zain Al-Sabah, Ambassador of Kuwait to the United States and the first woman to hold this role. A pioneering social entrepreneur, Ambassador Al-Sabah has championed inclusion and diversity throughout her career, advocating for women’s empowerment in business and media while fostering opportunities for youth development. Her innovative approach to advocacy and policy-building serves as a model of visionary leadership.

Dr. Ilaria Marconi Heckner, spouse of the Ambassador of Switzerland to the U.S. and a scholar with a commitment to understanding and documenting interreligious dialogue and historical perspectives. Her research, including her work on religious experiences in East Africa and academic collaborations, reflects her passion for advancing knowledge and fostering intercultural understanding.

Ms. Jan Du Plain, CEO and President of Du Plain Global Enterprises, Inc., whose decades-long career in international public relations and special events has amplified the impact of cultural and media organizations worldwide. A trailblazer in promoting women in the arts and diplomacy, Ms. Du Plain’s work—including Passport DC’s Around the World Embassy Tour and the Helen Hayes Awards—exemplifies her dedication to showcasing women’s achievements.

The insights shared by these distinguished panelists added depth to the discussions, reinforcing the ongoing journey toward gender equality and empowerment. Their contributions highlighted the strength, vision, and determination of women in diverse fields and served as a lasting inspiration.

Beyond their incredible expertise, the panelists and attendees shared a powerful sense of camaraderie, openly praising and supporting one another throughout the discussions. The genuine exchange of encouragement and the candid way in which the panelists addressed sometimes tough, thought-provoking questions was incredible. Their honesty and authenticity made the conversation even more impactful, fostering an atmosphere of trust, understanding, and collective growth.

Celebrating DACOR Bacon House’s Bicentennial Anniversary

In addition to celebrating women’s achievements, the event honored the bicentennial anniversary of DACOR Bacon House, further adding historical significance to the gathering.

We extend our gratitude to Angela Dickey, President, and the DACOR team for their leadership and generosity, which made this event possible. Collaborations like these are essential in amplifying the voices of women and promoting the causes that unite our community.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Celebration

As we move forward, we look forward to partnering with DACOR and other dedicated organizations to create impactful moments that honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future.

Everyone left inspired by the accomplishments of our panelists and the thoughtful reflections they shared, as well as by the questions and comments from our distinguished guests. We remain grateful for the partnerships and contributions that make these achievements possible.

Together, we will continue to honor the past, celebrate the present, and create initiatives that shape a more empowered future.

With gratitude,

Celine