Dear Members, Friends and Community,

From celebration to adaptation, November 2025 was a month in motion, whether reimagining how we honor the Secretary of State Awards for Outstanding Volunteerism Aboard (SOSA) amid the government shutdown, learning from a NASA astronaut or exploring the art of winemaking in Virginia. Each moment reflected AAFSW’s enduring mission: to support our community and celebrate meaningful impact.

With sincere regret, we announce the cancellation of this year’s SOSA, Champions of Career Enhancement for Eligible Family Members Award (CCE-EFM), and Lesley Dorman Award ceremony, originally scheduled for November 13, 2025, at the Harry S. Truman building, due to the ongoing government shutdown. 

This marks the first cancellation in the history of the SOSA awards, an unprecedented moment for a program that has long stood as one of AAFSW’s institutional mechanisms for recognizing extraordinary service and impact. Despite this change, AAFSW stays steadfast in our commitment to honoring the exceptional contributions of this year’s awardees. All SOSA winners received their award monies quickly and completely, allowing them to continue their work without any delays.

In lieu of a formal ceremony, we will host an informal virtual meet-and-greet next month to celebrate their achievements and foster community connection. We hope you will join us in recognizing the 2025 SOSA recipients and reaffirming AAFSW’s commitment to their mission.

Earlier in the month, on October 28, AAFSW welcomed Dr. Serena Maria Auñón-Chancellor, astronaut, physician, and global science ambassador, to the Burns Auditorium. Her presentation offered a rare glimpse into life in space and the profound responsibilities of scientific leadership. From navigating microgravity to fostering cross-cultural understanding aboard the ISS, Serena Maria reminded us that science can transcend borders and unite humanity in pursuit of shared knowledge.

On November 9, AAFSW members gathered for a memorable visit to Muse Vineyards, nestled in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. Founded by Robert Muse and Ambassador Sally G. Cowal, Muse Vineyards reflects a remarkable blend of global perspective and local stewardship. 

We extend our sincere thanks to the U.S. Department of State for generously providing access to their facilities for the Art and Bookfair and other AAFSW programs during the government shutdown. Their partnership remains vital to our mission and our ability to serve the global Foreign Service community.

From our commitment to the SOSA, the Champions of Career Enhancement for Eligible Family Members Award (CCE-EFM), and the Lesley Dorman Award awards, to the science of space travel and winemaking, this month exemplified the values that resonate deeply with AAFSW’s mission: international collaboration, personal excellence, and the celebration of shared journeys.

Thank you for your ongoing support, which allows AAFSW to provide grants and donations to SOSA awardees, scholarship recipients, families in need, and nonprofit organizations affected by recent federal funding cuts.

The AAFSW Team wishes you, your loved ones, and your extended communities a joyful and restorative Thanksgiving holiday.

Warmly,

Celine Ford