This month highlighted the extraordinary strength, compassion, and resilience of the Foreign Service community. Even amid global uncertainty and rapid operational demands, AAFSW has witnessed an inspiring outpouring of support from our members, sister organizations, and partners across the diplomatic landscape. The way this community steps forward, quietly, consistently, and without hesitation, remains one of our greatest sources of pride.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, including the recent escalation involving Iran, has placed significant pressure on families and employees across multiple agencies. Rapid evacuations, heightened security concerns, and continuous ESN coordination have required extraordinary effort. One moment, captured on this picture I am sharing, represents this spirit of service occurred at 4:00 a.m. at Dulles Airport, where volunteers from GCLO, military personnel, and the Dulles support team gathered to welcome families arriving under difficult circumstances. The outpouring of support has been overwhelming, and it reflects the very best of who we are.

Throughout these challenges, AAFSW has remained a steady and trusted resource, helping families manage stress, access support, and stay connected. This continuity of care is central to our mission and to the community we serve.

We are also pleased to share that work is underway on the Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA) Impact Report, generously funded by the Una Chapman Cox Foundation. This report will document the remarkable contributions of SOSA awardees and honor the many individuals who have supported the awards from their conception through decades of maintenance and legacy, without interruption. We extend our sincere thanks to Ambassador (Ret.) Jo Ellen Powell, Executive Director of the Uma Chapman Cox Foundation, and her colleagues for their steadfast support of this important initiative.

As part of the 2025 Gala donation, AAFSW, together with the leadership of The Tree House of Montgomery County THMC), presented a contribution from our 2025 Holiday Gala to support their vital work with children and families. The Board received heartfelt thanks from THMC for this meaningful support, which reflects our ongoing commitment to community partnerships and positive impact.

Looking ahead, AAFSW is exploring the creation of an annual, ongoing initiative to support oral history projects highlighting the experiences of spouses and partners serving at hardship and high-impact posts. These stories, often shaped by significant personal and professional challenges, are essential to understanding the full Foreign Service experience. We envision a network of volunteer spouse/partner oral historians, supported with training to ensure consistency and quality. This initiative has strong potential to enrich our organization, preserve important narratives, and offer meaningful opportunities for members to contribute. Once a point of contact is identified, we will share this initiative with our stakeholders to help capture more of these powerful stories. AAFSW is grateful to Susan R. Johnson, President of the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training (ADST), and her colleagues for their partnership and encouragement throughout this project moving forward. Their commitment to preserving diplomatic history and elevating the stories of our community has been invaluable.

Through every transition and challenge, AAFSW continues to stand on the foundation built by decades of dedicated volunteers, leaders, and supporters. Their commitment, and yours, ensures that our community remains strong, connected, and resilient. Together, we are honoring our past, supporting our present, and building a vibrant future for the Foreign Service family.

Warmly,

Celine 

Celine Ford, President, AAFSW

March18, 2026