News

The 2024 International Fellows (IFs) at the National Defense University (NDU) arrived in June. Many of them requested community sponsors. In coordination with NDU, AAFSW recruited a number of sponsors who were matched with IFs from Bosnia-Herzegovina, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Maldives.

NDU sponsored a welcome picnic at the end of July. But even before that the sponsors were busy planning events to expose our new colleagues to “typical America!” That included baseball, of course!, a patriotic concert at the Kennedy Center, free concerts around DC and red, white and blue welcome bags with home baked goodies.

Both Army officers, the Indonesian fellow, and the Egyptian fellow and his newly arrived wife and daughter enjoyed attending the U.S. Army Twilight Tattoo at Joint Base Henderson-Meyer. The ceremony depicted the history of the US Army from Revolutionary times to modern day using the fife and drum corps , the drill team, the canons, the U.S. Army band and soldiers dressed in period costumes. (All free and open to the public.)

The last event of the summer was Opera in the Outfield at Nationals Park with the Kennedy Center remotely presenting “Turandot.” The future holds other concerts and outings and eventually Thanksgiving, Christmas and through til next summer.

AAFSW is pleased to share the winners and honorable mentions of the 2024 Secretary of State Awards for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA).

Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs (EUR)        

Andrew Richley (Podgorica, Montenegro)

EFM Andrew Richley has played a key role in developing one of Europe’s largest urban gardens into a unique resource that provides food to the hungry and allows Montenegrins to learn about sustainable agriculture while building a stronger and more resilient community.  Richley established the Urbana Bašta Podgorica Food Forest and served as its manager.  He utilized his background as an arborist and forester to map and manage the orchard, while planting and growing more than 300 trees.  Additionally, Richley served as a key leader for the garden by organizing and leading community educational events, pursuing and managing funding/grants, and working with his team to care for the thousands of vegetables, shrubs, and trees planted.  The garden’s monthly food harvest has resulted in more than 250 crates of food being donated to local food banks and home delivery services. 

Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs (NEA)               

Connie Pearson (Jerusalem, Israel)

During her time as an Eligible Family Member in Jerusalem, Connie Pearson worked to bring different communities together, making a difference for all. Following the Oct. 7, 2023 terrorist attacks Pearson worked to organize catered lunches and dinners, personally cooking much of the food, for overworked embassy staff, as well as IDF soldiers and displaced Gazan families. She volunteered to help embassy staff evacuate U.S. citizens from Israel and raised funds for IDF reserve units as well as families in the West bank unable to afford food or utility payments. Pearson’s extraordinary service also included providing traumatized students with school supplies, raising funds for children to go to summer camps, helping a family whose farm was destroyed by fire, and assisting a local orphanage to purchase and renovate new facilities.

Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs (SCA)               

Kristin Factor (Mumbai, India)

Eligible Family Member Kristin Factor’s dedication to empowering young girls through art and education has left an indelible mark on the lives of those she’s touched. In Mumbai, Factor dedicated hundreds of hours, and her own funds, to provide art education to a group of 25 orphaned girls. Factor built the program from scratch, providing age-appropriate lessons to each girl and ensuring the walls of the Sharanam Shelter for Girls are now a figurative canvas for the girls’ newfound creativity, potential, self-esteem, and resilience.

Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs (WHA)         

Garrett Fraino (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

As an EFM, Garrett Fraino’s remarkable service to the impoverished favelas of Rio de Janeiro has made a significant impact in the lives of Brazilian youth. Through the Mais Caminhos (Pronounced “Mice Ka-Mean-Yoes) organization, which offers free activities and English courses to youth between 8 and 19-years-old, Fraino provided extensive personal tutoring and coaching to students. But Fraino's most outstanding and sustainable impact came in his efforts to restructure many parts of the organization for the better. Fraino reworked Mais Caminhos’ teaching guide and created more effective training for volunteer teachers. He also bolstered the organization’s administrative structure with a variety of improvements, including an innovative new attendance tracking program, a curriculum development plan, and a brand-new program to provide tourism and hospitality training to Mais Caminhos students.

Honorable Mentions 

AF Honorable Mentions: Valerie Wendell (Kinshasa, Congo - reassigned to SOSA from Tragen nominee pool) and Joel McDonell (Gaborone, Botswana)

EAP Honorable Mention: Thanh Kim (Seoul, Republic of Korea)

EUR Honorable Mention: Sarah Berdugo (Paris, France)

NEA Honorable Mention: Jessica Baetjer (Amman, Jordan)

SCA Honorable Mentions:  Stefanie Hendricks (Astana, Kazakhstan) and Lianne Tuomey (Kathmandu, Nepal)

WHA Honorable Mention:  Susannah Holmes (San Salvador, El Salvador)

AAFSW is pleased to announce the winners of our 2024 merit scholarships. Learn more about these stellar students below.

Merit Scholarship Awardees

 Isabelle A. Boyd

Isabelle Ann Boyd: A remarkable journey of resilience, adaptability, and determination. 

Isabelle Boyd is a rising sophomore majoring in Psychology and English at Virginia Tech. Born in Lithuania during her father’s first Foreign Service tour, Isabelle has also lived in Armenia, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, and Ukraine.  Isabelle spent a significant part of her high school years in Kyiv. However, her life took an unexpected turn when the United States embassy instructed her family to evacuate due to the impending threat of a Russian invasion. They returned to the United States, settling in temporary housing in Falls Church, Virginia.

Isabelle remained committed to her education despite the uncertainty and upheaval. Unable to transfer to a local high school mid-academic year, she continued her classes through Kyiv International School despite the time difference. At the same time, her friends, classmates, and teachers were scattered across the globe seeking safety. Isabelle’s achievements are commendable: Dean’s List, Fall 2023, AP Scholar with Honor Award (2022), and AP Scholar with Distinction Award (2023).

Isabelle’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, even in the most challenging circumstances. Additionally, Isabelle’s involvement in the Team Tennis League was transformative. Initially daunting, she found courage and discovered a sense of community. Regular play with her team fostered belonging and friendship, making her eager to return next semester. Furthermore, her experience with the “Bookworms” reading service club was significant. As a mentor to local elementary students, Isabelle shared her love for reading, inspiring the younger generation.

Lexy Jane Boudreau 

Lexy Jane Boudreau: A journey across equations, cultures and disciplines.

Her family’s involvement has profoundly influenced Lexy Jane Boudreau’s life in the Foreign Service. Having lived in diverse countries such as Bermuda, Ukraine, South Korea, Uganda, and Jordan, Lexy’s experiences have broadened her horizons and instilled a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives. She is pursuing a dual degree in Industrial Engineering and Science, Technology, and Society at North Carolina State University. At North Carolina State University, Lexy’s dual degree in Industrial Engineering and Science, Technology, and Society navigates the intricate web of equations and societal implications, seeking harmony between progress and people. 

As part of the Grand Challenge Scholars Program, Lexy is enthusiastic about restoring and improving urban infrastructure, aiming to connect community needs with engineering outcomes. Her unique insights and global perspective make her a valuable advocate for positive change. Additionally, her background in diplomacy equips her with the skills to navigate complex international relations and foster collaboration across borders. 

The Grand Challenge Scholars Program is crucial in shaping Lexy’s academic journey. This program empowers students like Lexy to tackle real-world problems by addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary approaches, fostering innovation and sustainable solutions. Likewise, her exposure to foreign service life has honed her adaptability, cultural competence, and ability to bridge gaps between nations.

AAFSW’s Twice Exceptional Merit Scholarship 

Katherine A. Nicodemus

Katherine Nicodemus’s story: A multicultural journey.

Katherine Nicodemus, a third-year student at George Mason University, embodies a rich tapestry of experiences. She was born in Virginia and spent her formative years in Germany, Austria, Ghana, and West Africa. These diverse cultural influences profoundly shaped her worldview. 

Driven by a passion for helping others, Katherine actively engages in volunteer work and aspires to become a social worker. As an ABA therapist, she adeptly manages behavior in children on the autism spectrum. Beyond her professional pursuits, Katherine cherishes her love for singing (which began at age two) and her enjoyment of volleyball. She is a middle child, with an older brother 18 months her senior and a beloved 14-year-old sister. Her affinity for animals extends to her two devoted cats, who faithfully follow her every move. 

The scholarship she has received represents a momentous honor, empowering her to advance her education and contribute to sustainable solutions within our communities. Katherine expresses deep gratitude to AAFSW for this incredible opportunity and eagerly anticipates continuing her journey with their unwavering support.

Harrison I. Gordon  

Harrison Gordon: A journey in anthropology and diplomacy.

Harrison Gordon is a 19-year-old student at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. His dedication to unraveling the stories of our past is evident through his major in Anthropology. With a fascination for history and a keen interest in the rich narratives that human experiences reveal, Harrison has embarked on an academic journey to explore our collective heritage.

His passion for understanding the world through a historical lens led him to choose Anthropology as his major. In this field, he delves into the biocultural evolution, diversity, and adaptability of humans. Harrison learns how we have modified our environments and behaviors throughout history to thrive.

Beyond his academic pursuits, Harrison is an accomplished Eagle Scout, demonstrating his leadership skills and commitment to community service. When he is not in the classroom, he enjoys swimming, hiking, and expressing his creativity through working with clay. His love for discovery extends to thrift stores, where he seeks out unique items.

Harrison Gordon’s multifaceted interests and dedication to understanding our past make him a promising Anthropology major at Fort Lewis College1. The Four Corners region provides an ideal backdrop for his studies, allowing him to explore the intricate connections between culture, biology, and history. As he studies anthropology, Harrison gains insights into human behavior, social structures, and belief systems. These insights are invaluable for diplomats working in diverse contexts. Anthropologists contribute to policymaking, conflict resolution, and sustainable development by analyzing cultural dynamics and fostering empathy.

Best Essay Scholarship

Lillian C. Moo 

Lillian Moo: On a mission to combat climate change.

Growing up in the Foreign Service, Lillian Moo’s life has been shaped by unexpected twists and global experiences. In 2013, her family was abruptly expelled from Venezuela during the school year, teaching her resilience and adaptability. Later, she moved from the United States to Hungary, diving into the IB program despite the challenges.

Lillian’s academic achievements are a testament to her intellectual prowess. She made the Oregon State University Honor Roll (Fall 2023, Winter 2024), was one of three valedictorians in her high school class of sixty students, received the prestigious President’s Award for Academic Excellence, and was a semifinalist for the highly competitive US Presidential Scholars program.

However, the monsoons in Mumbai left lasting impressions on Lillian. The relentless rain, flooded streets, and stalled traffic revealed the stark realities of anthropogenic climate change. As a third-culture kid, she witnessed firsthand climate impacts—wading through floods in Jakarta, observing Venezuela’s fossil fuel economy, and engaging with Hungary’s climate politics.

As a civil engineering student at Oregon State University, Lillian is committed to building resilient communities. She conducts research on wildfire effects on indoor air quality and volunteers with Engineers Without Borders, designing water systems for Nicaragua. Her journey reflects a passion for global change—a legacy of his diverse upbringing.

Lillian Moo’s dedication to combatting climate change is commendable, and her experiences as a third-culture kid uniquely position her to make a difference.

Judy Felt Memorial Volunteerism Scholarship

Elena Elizabeth Diaz 

Elena Elizabeth Diaz: A journey of family bonds and academic excellence.

Elena Elizabeth Diaz embarked on a remarkable journey alongside her family. Born in the United States, Elena’s life took an exciting turn when they relocated to Riga, Latvia. This move was not just about changing addresses but an opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture, language, and way of life. Elena’s diverse experiences span El Salvador, Japan, Latvia, Belgium, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with travel to over forty countries.

In 2024, Elena became a Laidlaw Scholar at the University of St Andrews. This prestigious scholarship funds a two-year research, volunteer, and leadership program to develop ethical leaders who reinvest their skills to help others succeed. Elena’s research focuses on the trans-generational effects of opioid addiction. Her academic achievements include being the valedictorian at the International School of Brussels and receiving the Maura Murphy Scholarship. Elena shares her passion for education and cultural exchange as a University of St Andrews Student Ambassador.

Beyond accolades, Elena treasures her family’s unique understanding. They share lived experiences, effortlessly bridging cultural references. Their togetherness remains unwavering, regardless of changing addresses. Elena recognizes this as a rare gift—one that not everyone has. Beyond the benefits of being a third-culture kid, the trust, empathy, and stability within her family stand out. Their shared journey has forged unbreakable bonds, proving that home is not just a place—it is the people who share your heart.

Elena’s story exemplifies resilience and the power of family.

Congratulations to our 2024 scholarship recipients!

Judges

• Melanie McFeeters, Volunteers & Evacuee Support Network (ESN) Chair
• Dr. Joanna Athanasopoulos Owen, Public Relations & Publicity Chair
• Ann La Porta, Forum Chair
• Victoria Olsa, Foreign Born Spouses Group Co-Chair
• Jenny Kocher, Foreign Born Spouses Group & EFM Employment Co-Chair
• Adah Laureano Ellenport, Scholarships Chair

Bios by  Celine Ford, President

The Ambassador of Hungary in Washington, D.C., Mr. Szabolcs Ferenc Takács, expresses gratitude to AAFSW for this invitation and the opportunity to share 1100 years of Hungary’s history, geography, and complexities. H.E. acknowledges the embassy’s awareness of the AAFSW’s public diplomacy programs and outreach.

You can watch a video of the program below.

Celine Ford, June 10, 2024

In a vibrant celebration of culture and heritage, the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington D.C. hosted the members and friends of the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW) to an enchanting evening reception on May 31, 2024. The event was a splendid showcase of Sri Lanka’s allure as a premier tourist destination.

AAFSW expresses sincere gratitude to Ambassador Samarasinghe and his leadership team. Their expert curation of the program, in collaboration with the enthusiastic participation of all attendees, highlighted Sri Lanka’s vibrant heritage and facilitated meaningful connections among all participants. Moreover, the Sri Lanka Embassy took proactive steps to engage their local and international networks, organizing a raffle that offered participants the opportunity to experience international travel and luxury stays in Sri Lanka. The skilled musicians and elegant ballet dancers, dressed in traditional finery, added to the evening’s magic.

A Night of Diplomatic Harmony and Cultural Exchange

H.E. Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe spearheaded the evening with a poignant speech that traced the historical bonds between Sri Lanka and the United States. He recounted the influential work of American missionaries in Sri Lanka’s north during the 1800s, the pivotal role of Colonel Henry Steel Olcott in the resurgence of Buddhism, and the contributions of John Exter, the inaugural Governor of the Central Bank of Ceylon post-independence. The Ambassador’s narrative, enriched with anecdotes and historical context, further highlighted the pivotal support of the United States in Sri Lanka’s recent economic revival through the IMF Program, weaving a tapestry of shared history that resonated with the distinguished guests.

Visual and Performing Arts: A Glimpse into Sri Lanka’s Soul

The embassy’s premises transformed into a visual odyssey with a photographic exhibition that captured the essence of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, natural wonders, and the indomitable spirit of its people. These images, courtesy of the “America – Sri Lanka Photographic Art Society Los Angeles” and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, offered a window into the island’s soul.

Complementing the visual feast, the rhythmic beats of “Ceylon Bera” and the expressive performances by the “Lanka Dance Academy,” under the direction of Lanka Mudannayake, illustrated the country’s rich dance traditions. The unique blend of traditional and contemporary elements in the performances, such as Achila Perera’s Bharathanatyam dance, was a testament to the vibrant and diverse culture of Sri Lanka. These performances, an evening highlight, added to the tapestry of diversity.

A Culinary Journey to Remember

The evening’s gastronomic offerings celebrated Sri Lanka’s rich culinary heritage. Guests were treated to an array of expertly crafted traditional flavors displaying the unique blend of spices and ingredients that make Sri Lankan cuisine so distinctive. For this gastronomic journey, a renowned Sri Lankan restaurant curated a dinner buffet to create a symphony of Ceylon spices. The live station serving fresh hoppers, a traditional Sri Lankan delicacy, became the night’s culinary centerpiece, delighting the palates of all attendees and offering an authentic taste of Sri Lanka. An unforgettable journey through the flavors and aromas of Sri Lanka, the sumptuous dinner buffet was a highlight of the event, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

Ceylon Tea: A Sip of Serenity

A special tea corner offered a serene retreat where guests could savor the rich flavors of freshly brewed hot and iced Ceylon tea, a beloved national treasure.

An Evening to Remember

The night culminated in a raffle draw, with lucky winners receiving a return air ticket to Colombo and luxurious hotel stays courtesy of Sri Lankan Airlines GSA in New York, Thema Collection Hotels, and Theva Residency Boutique Hotel Kandy.

Behind the Scenes of Our Cultural Programs

Collaboration at Its Best

The road to a memorable cultural program involves multi-level efforts. AAFSW collaborated closely with the Embassy of Sri Lanka leadership, leaving no stone unturned, and orchestrated a delightful Sri Lankan evening for over 150 attendees.

Program Goals and Key Messages

Our programs have clear goals: to celebrate a country’s vibrant culture, promote cross-cultural understanding, and create lasting memories. The target audience included diplomats, expatriates, and members and friends of AAFSW. We developed communication materials such as brochures and communications tools to ensure consistent branding and messaging. These succinctly summarized the program’s essential features, benefits, and contact information, aligning seamlessly with our vision and objectives.

A Note on Consistency

We must recognize that all our programs and events require the same dedication from AAFSW’s team and volunteers, all hands on deck. 

Thank you, our members, for your support and for making these programs and evenings remarkable. Your dedication truly exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and community within AAFSW.

You can see a video here.

Best,

Celine

Celine Ford, June 6, 2024

AAFSW is pleased to present the ‘Divorce and the Foreign Service Rights and Responsibilities’ guidelines, a crucial resource for our community. These guidelines, part of the 2023 Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO), showcase AAFSW’s continuous advocacy by AAFSW, particularly the Spouses in Crisis and Crisis Fund Chairs. We have been championing better treatment of abandonment during separation and divorce with the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Global Talent Management Bureau and Congress.

In the context of the foreign service community, while there is no specific data on the divorce rate, AAFSW has observed an uptick in families contemplating separation or divorce in recent years. These circumstances often emerge under severe conditions for the spouse and children. Living abroad without the support of extended family or friends, families, and individual members of the foreign affairs community confronts unique relationship stresses. They frequently must adjust their personalities or lifestyles to blend into local contexts. The pressures of relocating to a new environment and leaving behind one’s support network can strain marriages.

Life-altering events such as divorce can be profoundly stressful, often leading to trauma that can impair our decision-making abilities. This state of vulnerability can sometimes open the door to exploitation. Proceeding with a divorce hastily without comprehensive legal advice, signing documents without a thorough understanding of their implications, and misjudging and misclassifying marital assets can all present considerable risks. In their urgency to escape an unhealthy marriage, some individuals may be willing to relinquish assets they are rightfully entitled to. On the other hand, others may opt to endure harmful marriages due to financial limitations. Both situations are far from ideal.

Familiarizing yourself and sharing the 2023 Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO) “Divorce and the Foreign Service Rights and Responsibilities” guide is highly recommended. This comprehensive resource provides invaluable information and resources for those navigating this challenging process. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of Foreign Service employees or dependents serving under the Chief of Mission at post or their manager in the DMV. It also guides potential pension, survivor, and health benefits, as well as resources for counseling services. You can contact the Management Officer assigned to your post for more detailed information. Please remember that some benefits may cease once a divorce is finalized.

Amidst the challenges of divorce, it’s essential to know that AAFSW is steadfast in its commitment to supporting family members in these situations, whether in the U.S. or overseas. We actively mediate and negotiate with the State Department’s Family Liaison Office, support groups, and networks of family lawyers, ensuring that you have the necessary support during this difficult time.

When in a distress situation, usually during a separation or divorce, to find support navigating these challenging transitions, and under a strict rule of confidentiality, do not hesitate to contact the AAFSW Spouses in Transition Chair, the Foreign-Born Spouse State Liaison Chair, or the Office Manager.

We strongly encourage you to share these guidelines with your colleagues and friends in the Foreign Affairs community. By spreading this information, we can better support each other and ensure everyone knows their rights and responsibilities during divorce.

Divorce and the Foreign Service – U.S. Department of State

Spouses in Transition Support – Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (aafsw.org)

On behalf of AAFSW, we commemorated the Centennial Foreign Affairs Day on May 3, 2024. It was an honor to acknowledge the courageous and dignified individuals in foreign affairs and to pay tribute to those who made the supreme sacrifice during the Wreath Ceremony.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Deputy Secretary Verma for paying homage to AAFSW’s Wreath, a symbol of remembrance for our Foreign Service Family Members who have passed away while serving abroad. Their memories continue to inspire us. As always, thank you for being so supportive.

Celine Ford – President AAFSW

AAFSW needs your help!

Want to help AAFSW but don’t have a regular schedule or want to do something less often? Quinn’s Auction sends us notice of their auctions and their free appraisals. You would monitor the emails, contact the appropriate Chair to see if there is anything to be appraised, sign up for a time slot and take the item/s to Quinns located in Falls Church, VA. Nothing is huge so handling it will not be a problem. Contact Anne Kauzlarich for more information: Anne.kauzlarich@aafsw.org.

JEWELRY PRICER

With the sad passing of our beloved Betty Swope, we are now in need of someone who loves jewelry. Each piece of jewelry is evaluated – looked up if necessary – then priced. During Art & BookFair, you are very important. The work can be done from home or there is a designated area in the BookStore for your convenience. Sorting and display will continue to be handled by Pat Kennedy. Contact Anne.Kauzlarich@aafsw.org for details.

Won’t you join us? AAFSW runs on volunteers. Without you, there will be no scholarships or programs for our Foreign Service/Civil Service families and community. Join us.