AAFSW News

AAFSW’s 2026 Women’s History Month Program: “The Role of Women in Democracy, the Military, and Diplomacy”

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:19:10 GMT

Celine Ford, AAFSW President

March 2, 2026

On March 2, AAFSW welcomed our distinguished guests for our 17th annual Women’s History Month panel discussion, “The Role of Women in Democracy, the Military, and Diplomacy”.

Women’s History Month reminds us that progress rarely unfolds under perfect circumstances. Throughout history, women have stepped forward in times of uncertainty, showing courage, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to justice and freedom. They did not wait for ideal conditions, they acted, adapted, and led with vision. Their example continues to guide us today.

Sheila Switzer, AAFSW Program Chair and I were honored to host three remarkable women whose careers reflect this enduring spirit:

H.E. Cissé Mint Cheikh Ould Boide, Mauritania’s Ambassador to the United States, is the first woman to hold this post. Her distinguished career includes service as Mauritania’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO and as Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sports. She has long championed cultural diplomacy, sustainable development, and women’s leadership across the African continent.
Major General (Ret.) Donna Feigley Barbisch, DHA, MPH, CEO of Wicked Solutions, LLC, brings more than 38 years of military service, beginning as a young nurse in Vietnam and culminating as a U.S. Army Major General. A nationally recognized expert in terrorism preparedness and disaster response, she has advised federal agencies on chemical, biological, and nuclear threat readiness and commanded the 350th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital.
Ms. Celina Stewart, CEO of the League of Women Voters of the United States, leads one of the nation’s most influential nonpartisan voting rights organizations. Under her leadership, the League reached more than 30 million voters during the 2024 election cycle. Her career includes roles as Chief Counsel and Senior Director of Advocacy at the League, as well as legal counsel to Georgia Minority Leader Stacey Abrams and legislative work in the Michigan Legislature.

Their stories, spanning diplomacy, military leadership, and civic engagement, reminded us that women have long been at the forefront of strengthening democracy, safeguarding national security, and expanding the promise of participation for all.

AAFSW extends heartfelt thanks to AFSA President John Dinkelman and his team, whose gracious support made it possible to host this program on very short notice. His partnership ensured that this important conversation could take place at a pivotal moment.

As the program concluded, Ambassador Boide She praised the long, determined struggle of American women who fought for their rights and continue to defend them today. She spoke movingly about how much she has learned from her exposure to American women during her diplomatic tenure, lessons she carries with her and shares with young women back home in Mauritania. Her words reminded us that women’s progress anywhere strengthens women everywhere.

Grateful for the partnership that makes this work possible, with special thanks to Victor Gotevbe, Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief, Diplomatic Watch,Member, The National Press Club for his support of our 2026 Women’s History Month program.

Also see: https://diplomaticwatch.com/diplomats-leaders-convene-at-aafsw-womens-history-month-forum-on-democracy-the-military-and-diplomacy/

Our guests expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to gather, learn, and celebrate the women who continue to shape our shared future. In their spirit, we move forward—strong, steady, and undeterred. AAFSW is grateful for this program filled with energy and purpose, because women must never be silenced.

Warmly,

Celine

Letter from the President March 2026: Service and Support When It Matters Most

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:10:14 GMT

Celine Ford, President, AAFSW

March 18, 2026

Dear AAFSW Community,

This month highlighted the extraordinary strength, compassion, and resilience of the Foreign Service community. During times of worldwide uncertainty and fast-changing needs, AAFSW has experienced remarkable support from its members, sister organizations, and partners throughout the diplomatic community.

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 sustained Evacuee Support Coordination (ESN) coordination have needed extraordinary effort from teams across the Department and the broader interagency community.

To illustrate the depth of this commitment, I am sharing a photograph I captured during the pre-dawn hours as families arrived at Dulles Airport. The scene reflects a moment of reassurance and welcome, made possible by the collective support offered to exhausted travelers. Teams from the Department of State, GCLO, Diplomatic Security (DS), the military, and the Dulles support team worked together seamlessly, offering snacks, water, books, and pet supplies, small gestures that brought genuine comfort during a challenging time. Throughout these challenges, AAFSW has still been 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 with the upcoming Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA) Impact Report, generously funded by the Uma Chapman Cox Foundation. This report will provide a comprehensive account of the significant achievements of SOSA award recipients and recognize the individuals who have continuously supported the awards from their start through decades of sustained excellence and legacy. 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.

Looking ahead, The Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training (ADST) and AAFSW will collaborate on an ongoing initiative funded by AAFSW 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.

This initiative has strong potential to enrich our organization, preserve important narratives, and offer meaningful opportunities for members to contribute. We will share this initiative with our stakeholders to collect more engaging stories. AAFSW is grateful to Susan R. Johnson, ADST President 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.

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.

Through every transition and challenge, AAFSW continues to stand on the foundation built by decades of resolute volunteers, leaders, and supporters. Their commitment, and yours, ensures that our community stays strong, connected, and resilient.

Warmly,

Celine

Thank You to Our Partners and Volunteers Supporting Evacuees

AAFSW Webmaster — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 19:16:42 GMT

AAFSW and the Evacuee Support Network (ESN) are deeply grateful to GCLO and all of our volunteers for the partnership, care, and coordination shown in welcoming our embassy personnel and their families back home. The outpouring of support has been extraordinary, and our community is stronger because of it. Thank you!

Learn more about the ESN here: https://www.aafsw.org/Evacuee-Support

AAFSW Remembers Moises Mendoza

AAFSW Webmaster — Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:44:30 GMT

Dear AAFSW Community,

With deepest sadness, AAFSW announces the passing of Moises Mendoza. Moises was a person whose deep care for others often made it easy to overlook that he, too, deserved compassion. His dedication and commitment to the Foreign Service community enriched our organization and touched countless lives. He embodied the very spirit of service that AAFSW and the SOSA program strive to honor, and his example will continue to guide and inspire us.

My own experience working with him comes from his role as Chair of the Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA) within the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW). After joining the AAFSW Board in 2022, Moises took responsibility for every aspect of the SOSA program, which honors exceptional volunteer service by those under Chief of Mission authority at U.S. diplomatic and consular posts overseas.

In this role, Moises made a remarkable effort to recognize the often-unseen contributions of Foreign Service community members who go above and beyond, serving with extraordinary dedication and achieving the unexpected. One of his deepest commitments was to honor the many Foreign Service professionals who devote their lives to advancing American values and stewardship around the world.

Moises cared profoundly about humanity and understood the deeply personal nature of serving one’s country. He believed this understanding should be a tool, ensuring that service never became a burden carried alone. In an increasingly complex and noisy world, his message may at times have been overlooked. Yet his legacy is tremendous, and his substantial commitment to doing good will continue to be recognized.

With a master’s degree from Columbia University and the Hertie School of Governance, and a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University, Moises was also the recipient of the 2019 W. Averell Harriman Award for constructive dissent by an entry-level Foreign Service Officer. His service included assignments in Matamoros; Port-au-Prince, Haiti, as a political officer; Washington, D.C., as a country desk officer and watch officer in the State Department’s Operations Center; and most recently as a special assistant in the Executive Office of the U.S. Mission to the United Nations in New York.

Moises leaves behind a legacy of service, compassion, and strength. His integrity and empathy shaped every community he touched, and those of us who worked with him will carry his example forward. His impact endures, in the people he uplifted and in the values he lived so fully.

You can learn more about Moises in this video.

Celine

Celine Ford

President

February 17, 2026

Reminder: reach out to a mental health professional, 988 Lifeline, or ForeignASN@gmail.com if you need additional support. Current Department employees can also contact Employee Consultation Services (MEDECS@state.gov, 202-235-7475, option 3).

Apply for AAFSW's 2026 Merit Scholarships!

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:35:57 GMT

AAFSW's yearly merit scholarships are now open for the children of member families! The deadline for submitting all materials is April 17, 2026. Click here for the scholarship application page which includes all information and forms.

AAFSW offers two unique types of scholarships per year for member families. Plus, all applicants are considered for the Best Essay Scholarship ($1000 award) and the Judy Felt Memorial Scholarship for Volunteering ($1000 award).

AAFSW’s Merit Scholarship

Rewards academic excellence and involvement for current college freshmen, sophomores, or juniors continuing college. Two scholarships are available for $2,500 each.

AAFSW’s Twice Exceptional Merit Scholarship

Rewards academic excellence for high school seniors and/or college students who have shown resilience and have academically overcome adversity due to special needs. The AAFSW Twice Exceptional Scholarship is meant for high school seniors and/or college students who already have an Individualized Education Program (IEP). a 504, or an equivalent program in place. Two scholarships are available for $2,500 each.

Learn more about our scholarships.

We Are Hiring: Graphic Designer

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 18:34:18 GMT

Applications are now closed.

Created in 1960, the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW) is a membership-based non-profit association. AAFSW is affiliated with the U.S. Department of State as an employee service organization. We work to support the needs of the U.S. Foreign Affairs Community, including Foreign Service and Civil Service employees, spouses, partners, members of household and retirees. AAFSW is an equal opportunity employer.

AAFSW is looking for a contractor responsible for creating visual materials for a wide spectrum of programs and initiatives. The digital designer will focus on the visual design of the project and work closely with Board, Committee Chairs, AAFSW volunteers, contractors, and other internal clients to deliver visually appealing and effective cross-platform solutions (print and digital). This is a remote, low volume, contract position with several large annual projects. Some events may require a quick turnaround.

Responsibilities:

● Work with AAFSW Board, Committee Chairs, AAFSW volunteers, contractors, and other internal clients located across various time zones to create advertising materials that effectively communicate design concepts.

● Work with Content Committee to ensure that the solutions meet organization’s quality standards.

● Assist with concept development, branding and collateral materials for print and digital design projects.

● Manage AAFSW digital library in compliance with the Collaborative Workspace Policy (CWP).

● Edit, treat, and resize images and graphics for various media including print, website, and social media.

● The Graphic Designer must be experienced in Adobe Creative Suite applications and Canva.

● Manage multiple projects and deadlines in an organized manner.

Skills:

● Demonstrated interest in benefiting the U.S. Foreign Service community.

● Strong Adobe Creative Suite skills (including Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop) and Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Publisher), and familiarity with the Canva application.

● Experience working with print vendors and website developers is a plus.

● Strong observation, communication, critical-thinking skills, as well as attention to detail.

● English language proficiency.

How to apply:

● Please send CV, letter of interest, and examples of your work to efmemployment@aafsw.org.

● Deadline is COB February 4, 2026 (Eastern Time).

Rescheduled: Virtual Awards Meet & Greet

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 16:29:02 GMT

Thank you for your interest in and support for the Secretary of State Awards for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA).

RESCHEDULED: The Virtual Awards Meet & Greet has been postponed. A new date will be confirmed soon. An invitation with the connection details will be sent to all members.

This Meet and Greet remains an important part of AAFSW’s ongoing commitment to honoring the outstanding contributions of the SOSA and CCE‑EFM awardees and to maintaining a sense of community and celebration despite the cancellation of the traditional ceremony.

Letter from the President January 2026

AAFSW Webmaster — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 23:04:05 GMT

Dear AAFSW Members, Friends and Community,

As we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, we reflect on the resilience and commitment that define our community. With this spirit, AAFSW remains dedicated to serving the Foreign Affairs community.

I am very grateful to Karina Hou, Director of the Chinese American Museum, for inviting me to represent AAFSW at the 34th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. International Salute Breakfast. Diplomats, community leaders, and civic organizations gathered to honor Dr. King’s global legacy. The program emphasized service, unity, and international cooperation, with reflections on Dr. King's message of shared humanity. Held at the Intercontinental Hotel the Willard in Washington, DC, the event continued its tradition of recognizing those who embody Dr. King’s commitment to justice and community service.

On January 14, 2026, AAFSW launched its program year with a meaningful program at the National Press Club, one of Washington’s most iconic institutions, and a place where politics, media, and public policy intersect. The visit highlighted the Club’s long‑standing mission as a gathering place for journalists, communicators and its enduring role in supporting a free and independent press.

AAFSW will host the Secretary of State Awards (SOSA) / CCE‑EFM virtual Meet and Greet on January 30, 2026. Because of the cancellation of the 2025 traditional ceremony, AAFSW will hold a virtual meet and greet with the awardees and AAFSW Board of Directors. We are delighted to open it to all AAFSW members. The SOSA team will send an invitation to all AAFSW members. Meanwhile, the SOSA Committee continues its work on the SOSA Impact Report, a project made possible through the support of the Uma Chapman Cox Foundation, Ambassador Jo Ellen Powell, and her dedicated team. The report will be documenting the legacy of our awardees and reaffirming AAFSW’s commitment to honoring their selfless service and lasting impact across the globe.

AAFSW is deeply grateful to our individual donors and to all who have attended our programs, events, and fundraisers. Your sustained support strengthens our mission and allows us to continue serving the Foreign Affairs community with purpose and care.

We invite you to stay informed about our upcoming programs, events and community coffees. We look forward to engaging with you soon.

Warmly,

Celine Ford

Guided Tour of the National Press Club

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 17:42:26 GMT

AAFSW Opens 2026 with a Guided Tour of the Historic National Press Club, “a place where politics, media, and public policy intersect”

January 15, 2026

AAFSW launched its 2026 program year with a memorable visit to one of Washington’s most iconic institutions: the National Press Club. On January 14, 2026, members gathered for a convivial luncheon at The Reliable Source, the Club’s signature restaurant, followed by a guided tour of its historic rooms.

Since its founding in 1908, the National Press Club has been a central hub in Washington for news, public affairs, and civic discussions. Each year, it hosts more than two thousand events, welcoming U.S. presidents, world leaders, senior officials, and prominent figures in media, business, sports, and culture. The luncheon series, started in 1942, has featured speakers such as Franklin D. Roosevelt, Charles de Gaulle, Elizabeth Taylor, and Nelson Mandela.

Mr. Myron Belkind welcomed our members and guests, a forty-two-year career journalist with The Associated Press included assignments as foreign correspondent and bureau chief in Kuala Lumpur, New Delhi, London, and Tokyo. Myron graduated from The Ohio State University and Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism, where he earned a Pulitzer Traveling Fellowship. Myron later served as the Club’s 107th President in 2014. After retiring from the AP, he taught news writing and reporting at George Washington University (2005–2023) and led journalism seminars for the U.S. Department of State in Serbia, Montenegro, Azerbaijan, Albania, and the United Arab Emirates.

Mark Schoeff Jr., the National Press Club’s 2026 President, greeted our group and highlighted the Club’s mission as a professional home for journalists and communicators and its role in supporting a free and independent press.

Following lunch, members toured the First Amendment Lounge and other historic spaces. Throughout the visit, Myron shared vivid stories from his decades in journalism, from covering Princess Diana to reporting on Indira Gandhi, and offered insights into the evolution of global news reporting.

Guests also learned about the Press Freedom Center, established in 2014 to support journalists facing detention, threats, or exile. The Center offers advocacy, emergency help, and public education initiatives during a period of growing global press freedom challenges.

AAFSW extends its warm thanks to Sheila Switzer, AAFSW Program Chair, and Myron Belkind for making our first program of 2026 both inspiring and deeply informative. The visit offered a powerful reminder of the National Press Club’s enduring role as a guardian of press freedom and a vibrant gathering place at the heart of Washington’s civic life.

Thank you to all who attended and for your continued support.

Celine

Celine Ford, AAFSW President

New Life for Old Jewelry at the AAFSW Bookstore

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 17:33:58 GMT

Remember the necklaces, bracelets, or rings you bought at your earlier posts? Ever ask yourself: “What am I going to do with all that jewelry I’ve collected over the years?” The answer is simple: The Associates of the American Foreign Service (AAFSW) Art and Book Fair (ABF).

The jewelry booth is a fun and important part of ABF. Our lifestyle and taste changes over the years. Consider letting someone else enjoy wearing the beautiful pieces you have collected.

We can use your jewelry (no broken pieces, please). While we love ethnic pieces, most jewelry is welcome.

Proceeds from ABF go to the AAFSW scholarships and programs.

Who can join AAFSW? YOU can! AAFSW welcomes all active duty and retired Foreign Service and Civil Service people. Your spouse is automatically a member.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Call Bookroom Manager Brian Neumann: (202) 223-5796

Art & Book Fair Co-Chair Anne Kauzlarich: anne.kauzlarich@aafsw.org

Art & BookFair Co-Chair Kathleen Austin-Ferguson: kathleen.austin@aafsw.org

We look forward to chatting with you about your donation.

AAFSW's Annual Gala: A Night of Celebration, Partnership, and Purpose

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 04:21:38 GMT

By Celine Ford, President, AAFSW

December 19, 2025

AAFSW held its Annual Gala Fundraiser Dinner on Friday, December 12, 2025, at the Residence of the Ambassador of Switzerland to the United States, Dr. Ralph Heckner, and Dr. Ilania Marconi. The evening brought together members of the foreign affairs community for a warm and festive celebration that highlighted the strength of our mission and the spirit of service that defines AAFSW.

Ambassador Heckner opened the gala by expressing his gratitude to the patrons, artists, and AAFSW for making the event possible. He shared how pleased he was that the evening would not only celebrate community but also give back to it in a meaningful way.

AAFSW Programs Chair Sheila Switzer then welcomed guests with her characteristic warmth, thanking attendees for their support of AAFSW and introducing the talented artists who shaped the evening’s artistic atmosphere.

I had the pleasure of extending appreciation to our hosts, artists, and patrons, and reflecting on the long and special relationship between Switzerland and the United States, established in 1853. I also honored the legacy of Albert Gallatin, often called the “Swiss Founding Father”, whose contributions to the early American republic, from shaping the nation’s financial system and foreign policy to establishing the House Ways and Means Committee, embody the innovative and enduring character of Switzerland.

Guests enjoyed a wonderful musical program with soprano Danyi Ma and pianist Ge Shi, enhanced by Robin Phillips' engaging narration. Following dinner, DJ Antonio kept the dance floor full, adding to the joyful and celebratory atmosphere of the evening.

The generosity of our community was especially evident this year. Proceeds from the gala will support AAFSW programs as well as The Tree House Child Advocacy Center (THAC) in Rockville, Maryland. I selected THAC because of their essential services to children who are victims of abuse, offering care, protection, and a path toward healing. THAC leadership expressed deep gratitude for being chosen as the recipient of this year’s benefit, noting that the opportunity to meet and speak with such an inspiring gathering not only strengthens The Tree House but also raises vital awareness of the resources available to support children who are victims of abuse.

As part of the American Foreign Affairs community, AAFSW remains committed to strengthening international ties while giving back to those most in need. This year, I chose THAC as our charity for their commitment to supporting vulnerable children and helping every child succeed.

AAFSW Programs Chair Sheila Switzer once again delivered an impeccably organized event, creating a memorable experience for all who attended. I am also deeply grateful to our entire AAFSW team for their outstanding work in preparing for this event and ensuring its success.

The gala was a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish together, with compassion, collaboration, and a shared commitment to service.

It was a joy and an honor to celebrate the holiday season with our guests and patrons.

Warmly,

Celine

President's Letter, December 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 04:17:27 GMT

Dear AAFSW members, volunteers and community,

Thank you for supporting AAFSW through a year marked by both complexity and accomplishment. Our mission thrives thanks to your ongoing support and encouragement. Central to that mission is our commitment to recognizing individuals whose work strengthens and inspires our global community.

AAFSW stays deeply committed to honoring this year’s SOSA, CCE-EFM, and Dorman awardees. It is important that we come together to recognize their remarkable contributions and the impact they make across the globe. We did not hold the traditional ceremony at the Thomas Jefferson Reception Room this year because of the government shutdown. However, SOSA Co-Chairs Moises Mendoza and Josa Dorce will host a virtual meet-and-greet in January 2026 with AAFSW board members, fellow winners, and, if available, other State Department officials. This gathering will allow all our members to celebrate the achievements of our awardees and reaffirm AAFSW’s unwavering commitment to them, regardless of external challenges.

Our Annual Gala Fundraiser Dinner at the Swiss Residence was a wonderful celebration of community and purpose. Ambassador Ralph Heckner and Dr. Ilania Marconi graciously opened their residence to us with an evening filled with music, friendship, and generosity. Thanks to the exceptional work of Sheila Switzer and our AAFSW team, guests enjoyed an unforgettable program while supporting AAFSW initiatives and The Tree House Child Advocacy Center. I was proud to select THAC as this year’s beneficiary, and their leadership expressed heartfelt gratitude for the visibility and encouragement they received. It was a joy to begin the holiday season together and to reaffirm the spirit of service that defines our community.

In a year of challenges, AAFSW is especially grateful for the steadfast support of our U.S. State Department partners and the leadership and colleagues at the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA), the Una Chapman Cox Foundation, the Association for Diplomatic Studies and Training (ADST), the Foreign Service Youth Foundation (FSYF) and DACOR Bacon House. Their collaboration strengthens our organization and expands our impact in meaningful ways. I greatly appreciate our AAFSW colleagues, team members and volunteers for their dedication to achieving our mission.

Our community once again delivered a notable effort in 2025, a powerful reminder of what we can achieve together with compassion, collaboration, and a shared commitment to service.

Wishing you peace, joy, and all the very best this holiday season.

Warmly,

Celine

Together with the AAFSW Board of Directors and our colleagues

Annual Gala a Success

AAFSW Webmaster — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 18:06:14 GMT

AAFSW held its Annual Gala Fundraiser Dinner on December 12, hosted by the Ambassador from Switzerland to the U.S., Ralph Heckner. The elegant affair offered scrumptious food, wine, and entertainment in tastefully festive surroundings.

The 100 guests enjoyed a performance by soprano vocalist Danyi Ma with piano accompaniment by Ge Shi. This performance was enhanced with a lively narration by accomplished singer/actress/producer/playwright and public speaker Robin Phillips who kept the audience engaged and entertained.

After dinner, DJ Antonio spun popular tunes for a packed dance floor that sustained the rest of the evening. AAFSW Programs Chair, Sheila Switzer out did herself by organizing a perfect evening for AAFSW members and supporters! Proceeds from the Gala will go to AAFSW programs as well as to The Tree House Child Advocacy Center in Rockville Maryland.

A Note from AAFSW Program Chair Sheila Switzer

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 19:30:26 GMT

Dear Friends,

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your support at our very successful Fundraiser Gala events and throughout the year, as we presented diverse and meaningful series of international, political, cultural, social, and informative events celebrating and promoting the arts and cultures of countries around the world.

I wish you and your dear family a Merry Christmas, a Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Holidays, and a New Year filled with health, happiness, peace, success, and many exciting events,

With sincere appreciation and warm wishes,

Sheila Switzer

AAFSW Program Chair

Resilient in Motion: AAFSW’s November of Impact

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 16:41:44 GMT

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

AAFSW Welcomed NASA Astronaut Dr. Serena Maria Auñón-Chancellor

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 21:31:57 GMT

On October 28, 2025, AAFSW had the distinct honor of welcoming Dr. Serena Maria Auñón-Chancellor, astronaut, physician, and global science ambassador, to the Burns Auditorium. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, is the U.S. federal agency, established in 1958 to lead the nation's civilian space program and aeronautics research. Dr. Auñón-Chancellor brought a deeply personal and inspiring perspective to our community.

With warmth and candor, Serena Maria shared her remarkable journey from clinical medicine to orbiting the Earth aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Her presentation, enriched with vivid images and videos, offered a rare and moving glimpse into life in space, an experience few on Earth will ever see firsthand.

Her career exemplifies the powerful intersection of science, diplomacy, and international collaboration, values that resonate deeply with AAFSW’s mission. From navigating microgravity to fostering cross-cultural understanding aboard the ISS, Serena Maria reminded us that scientific leadership can transcend borders and unite humanity in pursuit of shared knowledge.

With Abby, ten years old attending, the diversity of the audience in terms of age and nationality was especially notable, underscoring the enduring relevance of space exploration and its associated spirit of discovery.

AAFSW is especially grateful to the U.S. Department of State for making this presentation possible amid the government shutdown. We extend our sincere thanks to the Office of Policy, Planning & Communications and the Bureau of Administration, Chief of the Media Services Division, for their outstanding support of our events at HST. Their dedication and responsiveness have made a meaningful difference during a challenging time, and we deeply value their partnership.

This presentation by Serena Maria reflected on the challenges and triumphs of her career, and invited us to consider how science can serve as a bridge across generational, gender, societal, and political challenges, and how her field embodies a profound duty to care, both on Earth and beyond.

AASFW extends our deepest thanks to Dr. Auñón-Chancellor for her generosity, insight, and inspiration.

Warmly,

Celine Ford

A Toast to Vision: AAFSW at Muse Vineyards

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 21:24:32 GMT

AAFSW is delighted to share highlights from our visit on November 9, 2025 to Muse Vineyards, nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley. This inspiring excursion offered not only a taste of exceptional wines, but a deeper appreciation for the vision and dedication behind one of the region’s most celebrated vineyards.

Founded by Robert Muse and Ambassador Sally G. Cowal, Muse Vineyards reflects a remarkable blend of global perspective and local stewardship. Robert’s background in international law and Sally’s distinguished career in diplomacy and global health have shaped a vineyard rooted in both precision and passion.

Sally currently serves as Senior Vice President for Global Cancer Control at the American Cancer Society, where she leads efforts in cancer prevention and strategies to expand access to screening, treatment, pain relief, and patient services. Her work supports nonprofit development worldwide and helps secure funding for cancer control in low- and middle-income countries.

Her career has spanned diplomacy, public health, and international collaboration. She helped found the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), serving as Director for External Relations to elevate AIDS as a global public health and economic issue. She also served as U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, appointed by Presidents George H.W. Bush and William J. Clinton.

Our visit began with a scenic drive through the Shenandoah Valley’s rolling hills, where golden autumn leaves framed the landscape. We crossed a gentle river via a small wooden bridge, arriving at the vineyard’s charming tasting room, nestled at the base of the mountains. From the deck, we looked out over peaceful rows of vines, framed by the majestic Shenandoah Mountains, their quiet grandeur adding to the sense of calm and connection.

During our visit, Sally personally led a thorough and engaging tour of the winery, generously answering questions from our delighted guests. Her warmth, insight, and storytelling brought the vineyard’s history and philosophy to life, making the experience truly memorable.

From the vine rows to the tasting room, Muse Vineyards embodies the spirit of international collaboration and personal excellence. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Sally for her generosity and hospitality, and to all who joined us for this meaningful day.

Warmly,

Celine Ford

Annual Art & BookFair a Great Success

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 21:21:40 GMT

We had a wonderful Art & BookFair. Both weekends were so busy that people were turned away each weekend day. It was both exciting to have so many people, and sad turning people away. Social media really works!

We can’t thank the volunteers enough for all their hard work. You were terrific! The first Saturday no one could even stop for lunch. Next year we need more volunteers. If you sign up, please do come. We plan assignments according to the list of volunteers each day. Emergencies do happen and that is understood. Letting us know in advance helps us adjust accordingly. Having “no shows” affected the efficiency of our operation.

Our Wrap-Up session was excellent. A report will be sent to those who volunteered. Thank you for your input. It takes everyone because we all do and see different things. Together, we will make ABF 2026 even better.

Now the exciting news – Art & BookFair 2025 made over $105,000 with a little more expected. Congratulations to all those who work throughout the year and those who volunteered at ABF. As a team, we meet all challenges and enjoy doing it.

Anne Kauzlarich and Kathleen Austin-Ferguson

Art & BookFair Co-Chairs

Meet Lesley Dorman Winner T. Edward Pierce

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 16:02:03 GMT

Proposed by Catherine Pierce, AAFSW 1st VP, and seconded by Lucy Whitley, Board member, the Lesley Dorman Award committee (past Dorman awardees) voted to choose T. Edward Pierce (spouse of the 1st VP) as the Lesley Dorman Awardee of 2025.

He received the award in recognition of his outstanding contributions and dedicated service to AAFSW while modernizing the Association information technology platforms. Edward has been a member of AAFSW since he joined State in 2006, and became AAFSW's Information Management Resources (IRM) committee chair in 2023. Edward mirrors the spirit of the Lesley Dorman award through his dedication and innovative initiatives, which will have a long-lasting impact on the organization.

Learn more about the Dorman Award.

Letter from the President - October 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 15:18:45 GMT

Dear AAFSW Members, Friends, and Community,

I hope this message finds you well and in good spirits.

Over the past few weeks, our board members, collaborators, and volunteers have been working tirelessly to prepare for the annual Art & BookFair, despite the challenges posed by the shutdown at the Harry S Truman building. What unfolded was nothing short of a tour de force of community spirit and resilience.

The Art & Bookfair became more than a shopping event. It was a celebration of access, connection, and shared purpose. The sight of both State and non-State attendees navigating long lines to bring home rare, well-priced treasures spoke volumes about the value this tradition holds. In fact, it was reported that over 1,000 visitors attended on the second day alone, a testament to the fair’s enduring appeal and importance.

What stood out most was the gratitude and admiration for our volunteers. Their tireless dedication, logistical finesse, and warm presence transformed what could have been a challenging weekend into a deeply meaningful experience. From managing crowd flow to replenishing inventory, they made it all possible. We are profoundly grateful.

It was a moment of restoration. In uncertain times, people found joy in the tangible and the communal. We thank every person who contributed, attended, and supported this event.

Looking ahead, we are excited to gather again for the Secretary of State Awards for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA) ceremony, where we will honor outstanding service and commitment. We are also thrilled to host a special program featuring NASA Astronaut Dr. Serena Maria Auñón-Chancellor, whose journey and insights promise to inspire. And of course, we look forward to our Community Coffee reunion, a chance to welcome new faces and reconnect with familiar ones in a time when sharing and finding comfort within our Foreign Affairs community is more important than ever.

Thank you for being part of AAFSW. Your presence, participation, and support continue to shape this vibrant and caring community.

Warmly,

Celine

President, AAFSW

Letter from the President - September 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 17:02:13 GMT

Dear AAFSW members, friends, and community,

As summer transitions into fall, we are pleased to share updates on several initiatives that reflect our ongoing commitment to service, recognition, and advocacy within the Foreign Service community.

This season marks an important moment for AAFSW. The upcoming Arts and BookFair, one of our most valued fundraising events, offers a meaningful opportunity to showcase the unique treasures generously donated by our community. It remains a cherished tradition and a vital source of support for our programming.

We are pleased to announce the selection of the 2025 recipients of the Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA). This year’s honorees have demonstrated exceptional contributions in education, health, and community resilience. The selection committee was deeply impressed by the depth of service and innovation among the nominees. Preparations are underway for a recognition event that will honor their achievements with dignity and visibility.

We also recently shared information about a significant piece of legislation currently under consideration in Congress: the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 1144). This bill promotes justice and protection for survivors of trafficking and exploitation, and supports U.S. embassies, consulates, and affiliated organizations through policy tools, printed materials, and survivor-centered guidance.

In addition, we are honored to announce that the Arts Club of Washington has selected our collective initiative, AAFSW’s Arts and Diplomacy Series – Celebrating Creativity Across Cultures, for an exhibition scheduled for November 2026. This exhibition will spotlight the artistic contributions of Foreign Service employees, spouses, and partners, and will celebrate their role in fostering global dialogue and understanding through the transformative power of art.

Finally, our Board communications and strategic alignment efforts continue to prioritize clarity, inclusivity, and responsiveness to the evolving priorities of our members and partners.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement. Together, we are building a lasting legacy of service and impact.

Warm regards,

Celine

Celine Ford, President

2025 SOSA Honorees

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 18:03:23 GMT

AAFSW is thrilled to share this year's Secretary of State Awards for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad winners and honorable mentions. Read on to learn about these amazing recipients! Learn more about SOSA.

AF: Julie Fischer (Kinshasa, DRC) and Samantha Bunch (Nairobi, Kenya)

During the January 2025 Ordered Departure from U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Eligible Family Member Julie Fischer emerged as an informal leader of more than 200 evacuees, drawing on prior evacuation experience to keep the group calm and organized while coordinating with AAFSW’s Evacuee Support Network to secure clothing, supplies, and a morale boost upon arrival in the United States.

In Kinshasa, she volunteered at the Telema Mental Health Center, teaching art therapy to at-risk women and organizing an Embassy garden project. She also served on the Board of The American School of Kinshasa, where she led governance reforms and a constitutional revision. She supported English learners at the Congo American Language Institute; mobilized alumni service projects as University of Notre Dame’s “ambassador” to the DRC; and contributed to community life as a Marine Ball Committee member and social sponsor. As a volunteer with African Bird Club, she proofread more than 1,000 DRC bird species entries on the Birds of Africa app. She left a lasting legacy of service to both mission and host country communities. Photo shows Julie Fischer.

Samantha Bunch, an Eligible Family Member at U.S. Embassy Nairobi, has shown remarkable dedication to both the mission community and Kenya through innovative service and crisis leadership. As Vice Chair of the American Employee Association and Chair of the Marine Ball Committee, she strengthened morale and community life, while her Eco-Brick Initiative diverted over two tons of plastic waste into low-cost housing materials, creating a model for sustainable development. She mobilized critical support for Ginko Africa, empowering teenage mothers to continue their education, and extended vital assistance to Real Hope Community Orphanage. During the April 2023 evacuation of Embassy Khartoum families, she coordinated donations, offered comfort, and provided hands-on support to arriving evacuees. Samantha’s volunteerism—marked by creativity, compassion, and impact—has left a lasting imprint on both Embassy Nairobi and the wider host community. Photo shows Samantha Bunch.

AF Honorable Mention: Margie Tidwell (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)

EUR: Jennifer Sturgeon (The Hague, Netherlands)

Jennifer Sturgeon exemplifies the highest ideals of volunteerism through her leadership, creativity, and compassion across multiple countries. In Slovakia, she led the nation’s largest charity initiative, raising $102,000 for nonprofits serving refugees, children, and women, and advocated for orphanages in Poland and Slovakia. Since moving to The Hague in 2023, she has strengthened community life through the American Women’s Club and U.S. Embassy initiatives, organizing cultural exchanges, awareness events, and fundraising drives that have benefited soup kitchens, at-risk children, trafficking survivors, and Ukrainian families. A dedicated supporter of the Royal Dutch Sea Rescue Institution, she has raised funds, organized community outreach, and coordinated volunteer efforts to sustain their lifesaving mission. She advances remembrance through the Stolpersteine Project, supports faith and fellowship through young adult ministry and global Bible study programs, and unites allied families as President of the

Defense Attaché Spouses Association. Jennifer’s enduring impact reflects American generosity, resilience, and service, leaving lasting contributions to both host and mission communities.

EUR Honorable Mention: Patty Liddle (Istanbul, Turkey)

SCA: Shirley Helm (Dushanbe, Tajikistan)

In Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Foreign Service Office Management Specialist Shirley Helm dedicated over 4,000 volunteer hours to advancing opportunities for the country’s deaf community through American Sign Language (ASL) education and advocacy. What began as a modest class quickly grew as she developed her own curriculum, secured grants to bring in a deaf American instructor via Zoom, and launched independent programs that transformed beginners into fluent signers.

Her mentorship opened doors never before imagined: two of her students became the first Deaf Tajiks accepted into the FLEX exchange program, and she partnered with Gallaudet University’s summer camp director to ensure two deaf students could attend—personally escorting them on their first journey to the United States.

Beyond the classroom, Shirley organized Deaf Awareness Week at the embassy, welcomed deaf students into national celebrations, and traveled to remote regions to train teachers and inspire young learners. Through vision, perseverance, and thousands of hours of service, she reshaped the landscape of disability rights in Tajikistan—leaving a legacy of inclusion and opportunity that will endure long after her departure.

SCA Honorable Mention: Katryn DeMeritt Stewart (Ashgabat, Turkmenistan)

WHA: David Bargueño (Brasilia, Brazil) and Wiley Skaret (Bogota, Colombia)

Foreign Service Officer David Bargueño led an innovative partnership with the largest cooperative of recyclable trash pickers (“catadores”) in Latin America, which represents more than 2,500 low-income families in Brasília, Brazil. He mobilized a yearlong fundraising and volunteer campaign, which created a community of service – across the Embassy, American School, and trash pickers – and culminated with an upgrade of local recycling facilities on international volunteer day. In addition to painting several multipurpose rooms, David and his team procured key supplies that the catadores requested for their professional education, such as sewing machines, hairdresser seats, laptops, bookshelves, books, and furniture. The director of the cooperative noted that the United States was the first and only embassy to ever roll up its sleeves and volunteer at the recycling center, located just 15-minutes from downtown, yet widely unknown to the diplomatic community.

At the end of the international volunteer day, one of the catadores gave David a surprise bear hug and news: their multipurpose room would be renamed “Martin Luther King, Jr. Hall” to honor the U.S. Embassy’s support. The campaign raised broader public awareness of how a historically informal workforce provides ecological and sanitary services that improve the quality of urban life, ease burdens on landfills, and create employment for almost one million people across the country. David and his team in the stand-alone section focused on Environment, Science, Technology, and Health (ESTH) represented core U.S. values and strengthened people-to-people ties during the 2024 bicentennial celebration of U.S.-Brazil diplomatic relations.

While in Bogotá, Colombia, EFM Wiley Skaret founded James 1, a U.S. 501(c)(3) project dedicated to providing university scholarships for the children of Colombian National Police (CNP) officers killed in the line of duty. To advance this mission, Wiley built broad coalitions of support — engaging police generals, supreme court justices, ambassadors, diplomats, corporate leaders, and victims’ families — to shine a light on the needs of the children of fallen heroes.

An internationally performing pianist, Wiley harnessed music as a vehicle for awareness and remembrance. He launched a nationwide campaign by recording music videos across Colombia with a piano transformed into a traveling memorial, painted by a CNP graffiti artist. That piano accompanied Wiley on recording tours across the country before being permanently installed at the CNP Museum in Bogotá. Through benefit concerts on two continents, national media appearances, and the creation of an international scholarship board, Wiley elevated the cause from a local initiative to a global effort.

Wiley credits his team of advisors from U.S. Embassy Bogotá for helping shape the vision for James 1 and the many diplomats who not only believed in his mission, but joined it. Their partnership was instrumental in transforming an idea into a sustainable program with lasting impact.

To date, James 1 has raised more than $100,000 and provided full or partial university scholarships to nine children of fallen officers, four of whom have now graduated. The foundation continues its work today, with new applications under review. Photo shows Wiley Skaret.

WHA Honorable Mention: Francisco Ordaz (Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago)

This year, two bureau award committees did not award a SOSA but would like to recognize the following honorable mentions:

NEA Honorable Mention: Kaleigh Fountain (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia))

EAP Honorable Mention: Amy Kennedy (Beijing, China), Thomas Lee (Rangoon, Burma), Carlo Cressotti (Suva, Fiji)

Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 1144)

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 17:45:57 GMT

Dear AAFSW Members and Community,

I am pleased to bring to your attention an important piece of legislation currently before Congress: the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 1144). This bipartisan bill advances justice, dignity, and protection for survivors of trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation through survivor-informed policy, prevention strategies, and international cooperation.

With its international scope and relevance to Foreign Service personnel, H.R. 1144 authorizes $111 million annually (2026–2030) for foreign assistance programs targeting trafficking abroad, and $23 million annually to support the State Department’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking and its interagency task force. These funds fall under Budget Function 150 (International Affairs) and are subject to congressional approval through the annual appropriations process. If enacted, they would enhance diplomatic engagement, expand field-level resources, and reinforce trauma-informed programming across missions.

The bill also broadens trafficking definitions, including organ harvesting, and encourages integration of anti-trafficking strategies into development efforts. It directly supports U.S. embassies, consulates, and affiliated organizations by providing policy tools, printed TIP materials, and survivor-centered guidance.

AAFSW has consistently supported initiatives that promote dignity, protection, and justice. From supporting shelters for survivors of human trafficking and abused children to hosting events that addressed violence against women in Iran, our programming reflects a commitment to vulnerable populations and the challenges they face. We have also provided resources and recognition to Foreign Service families navigating hardship during separation and divorce.

This message is intended to raise awareness of H.R. 1144 and its relevance to our community. It does not constitute a formal endorsement by AAFSW. We remain committed to transparency, neutrality, and principled engagement on issues that intersect with our mission.

Thank you for your continued support.

Celine Ford, AAFSW President

H.R.1144 - 119th Congress (2025-2026): Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2025 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress

AAFSW is pleased to share a model message you can send to your representatives to voice support for H.R. 1144.

Subject: Support for H.R. 1144 and H.R. 4405 — Upholding Survivor Justice and Transparency

Dear [Representative's Name],

As a member of the American Foreign Service community, I urge you to support two vital pieces of legislation:

H.R. 1144 – The Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2025 This bill strengthens our national and international efforts to combat human trafficking through survivor-informed policy and bipartisan collaboration.

These bills reflect our shared values of dignity, accountability, and protection for the vulnerable. I respectfully ask you to support both measures and stand with survivors.

AAFSW Board Member Spotlight: Sheila Switzer – A Lifetime of Service and Compassion

AAFSW Webmaster — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 03:46:09 GMT

Introducing: AAFSW Board Members & Members Spotlight

I am pleased to launch a new bimonthly series - AAFSW Board Members and Members Spotlight - celebrating the individuals who make our organization so dynamic, inclusive, and impactful.

Across the Foreign Affairs landscape, AAFSW members contribute in countless ways: offering support, sharing expertise, and building bridges that strengthen our global network. This series will keep their contributions visible and valued.

We begin with board member Sheila Switzer, 2009 AAFSW's Lesley Dorman awardee, whose enduring commitment has brought compassion and service to Foreign Service families worldwide.

We are proud to support initiatives and efforts to provide meaningful resources and connections for the Foreign Affairs community .

Thank you for your continued support and for all that you do to uplift those we serve.

Celine Ford

President, AAFSW

Meet Sheila Switzer

I am deeply honored to have received the following awards throughout my career:

Service and leadership have been the heartbeat of my life. I grew up in Mexico in a family deeply committed to philanthropy and volunteerism—the love of humanity has always been at the core of my identity. Since 1985, I have devoted myself to helping others: organizing philanthropic, cultural, and social events; supporting vulnerable communities; and fostering cross-cultural understanding.

My global journey began alongside my beloved husband, Tom Switzer, a former Public Diplomacy officer with the U.S. State Department. Although Tom recently passed, I continue to honor his legacy and the values we shared throughout our life together.

Wherever we were posted, I found ways to serve. My goal was always to unify diplomatic, international, and local communities to build a strong volunteer force. I personally organized and participated in countless fundraising efforts that have improved the lives of thousands—supporting orphans’ education, funding homes for the elderly, aiding mental health institutions, assisting single mothers and homeless individuals, donating thousands of Christmas gifts annually, and even sponsoring a young girl to compete in the Special Olympics.

It was in Washington, D.C. that I connected most deeply with AAFSW. The organization has been a cherished partner in my work, offering a platform to launch initiatives that reflect my passion for community and philanthropy. I have had the privilege of serving as AAFSW Program Chair (since 2009), Crisis Fund Chair, and Foreign-Born Spouses State Liaison. I previously served as Foreign-Born Spouse Chair, Women in Transition Chair, and Founder and Chair of the Crisis Fund. These roles have allowed me to support foreign-born spouses in moments of celebration and in times of transition, and to improve lives globally.

Among my proudest achievements is establishing the Crisis Fund, which has raised vital support for those facing hardship. I also organized the Ambassador Speaker Series, welcoming chiefs of mission from around the world to share their insights with our community. These programs—and many others—were made possible through the support of AAFSW board members, volunteers, and the encouragement of our presidents. I have warmly embraced initiatives from fellow AAFSW members, and this partnership has reaffirmed the power of shared purpose and mutual respect.

It is deeply gratifying to organize the Ambassador Speaker Series, which continues to bring global perspectives to our community. Other AAFSW activities I’ve led or supported include:

Women’s History Month programs featuring global women leaders (held at the Department of State and DACOR Bacon House)
Philanthropy and fundraising events at embassies and cultural venues
Cultural programs at the Library of Congress, Shakespeare Library, and local theaters
Tours of Capitol Hill, museums, archives, art galleries, the Kennedy Center, and private studios
A tea at the White House hosted by First Lady Mrs. Bush
Historical and art tours to Middleburg, Richmond, Charlottesville, and Annapolis
Lectures, concerts, gala dinners, and networking events

Whether working in the bookroom with our wonderful volunteers or hosting cultural tours and celebrations, I have found joy in every moment. I encourage everyone to volunteer—you will discover fulfillment, friendship, and the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of others, especially those in need. We have exciting programs ahead, and I look forward to seeing you at our events.

Tom and I were blessed with two daughters, Christine and Jacqueline, both graduates of the University of Virginia.

Christine is the head of philanthropy at the Monarch Foundation, whose initiative, The Bridge Project, provides unconditional cash support to low-income mothers and babies in the United States. She holds a master’s degree in Law and Diplomacy from the Fletcher School at Tufts University. Her husband, Alexander Theodoridis, is a political science professor at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, and holds degrees from UVA, Harvard Kennedy School, and UC Berkeley. They have a son and daughter.

Jacqueline is an acupuncturist and holistic health practitioner. In addition to her degree from UVA, she graduated from the Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine College in Berkeley, California. Her husband, Kevin May, is a business professor at Catholic University, and holds degrees from the College of William and Mary and George Washington University.

2019: AAFSW Lifetime Achievement Award
2018: AAFSW Volunteer Recognition and Award for Exceptional Leadership
2017: Award from the Governor of Zacatecas, Mexico
2015: DACOR Tragen Award
2012: Alliance of Pan American Round Table Award
2009: Lesley Dorman Award
1992: Avis Bohlen Award, Special Award from the Association of the Diplomatic World, and Recognition from the Mayor of Madrid
1991: Secretary of State’s Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA)

Whether working in the bookroom with our terrific volunteers or hosting cultural tours, lectures, and celebrations, I have found joy in every moment. I encourage everyone to volunteer—you will discover fulfillment, friendship, and the chance to make a lasting impact.

We have exciting programs ahead, and I look forward to seeing you at our events.

Warmly,

Sheila Switzer, AAFSW Program Chair, Crisis Fund Chair, Foreign-Born Spouses State Liaison

Castlewood Home and Studio Tour was a Fascinating Delight

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 20:13:41 GMT

by Marina DiCarlo-Wierichs

On Friday, July 18 AAFSW members and guests had the pleasure of attending a very unique art studio and home tour at Castlewood House in Vienna, Virginia. Organized by AAFSW Programming Chair, Sheila Switzer, guests were treated to the fascinating history of the home and its owners: Victor and Olga Sheymov, who defected from Russia in the 1980’s.

Greeting each guest at the door, Olga Sheymov was a warm and welcoming host. She first led us through the main floor rooms of the house, starting with the entrance tower which featured a 3 story high ceiling, a Juliet balcony with coat of arms, and two of Olga’s stunning paintings. Our hostess told us that much of the ironwork in the house was created by Danny Hurwitz who is known for his work on the White House gates and restoration of the Statue of Liberty.

As we moved further into the home, we learned that the wide plank yellow pine floors came from a Pennsylvania property and were 250 years old. Much of the interior features of the home featured American craftsmanship using materials sourced from historic locales. This included the wine cellar floor which was constructed of the original bricks from the Gettysburg street where Lincoln made his famous speech.

The house tour ended in the large family room which was set up for a fascinating Powerpoint and video presentation through which our hostess told us the story of her life and art. Unfolding the tale of Olga and Victor's defection from the Soviet Union in the 1980’s, she described a decade in hiding and the creation of a new life in America. Then she shared images and videos of her paintings which she had programmed as animations using AI prompts. The videos brought her colorful and surreal imagery to life, imbuing the works with meaning.

After the presentation we shared a pot-luck buffet in the dining room and were free to wander the home and enjoy Olga'a stunning artwork displayed throughout. The event culminated in a tour of Olga’s beautiful loft studio. It’s airy, peaked roof and large windows make it the perfect space for creativity.

AAFSW would like to thank Olga Sheymov for welcoming us into her home and for sharing her intriguing story with our members.

2025 Youth Awards Ceremony

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 21:34:11 GMT

AAFSW was thrilled to join the 2025 Youth Awards Ceremony held on June 25 at the U.S. Department of State, celebrating the remarkable achievements of 229 young members of the Foreign Service community. Organized by Foreign Service Youth Foundation (FSYF), in partnership with the Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO). The event brought together students, families, and supporters both in person and via livestream to honor excellence in art, essay writing, academic merit, and community service.

The creativity of Foreign Service youth was on full display—from powerful visual artwork and poignant storytelling to global volunteer initiatives that uplift vulnerable communities. AAFSW applauds these extraordinarily young changemakers.

This year’s AAFSW 2025 $12,500 Merit Scholarship fund recipients embody a vibrant mosaic of service, creativity, and global-minded leadership. Lillian Claire Moo, Lexy Jane Boudreau, Parker James Peterson, Eva Danis Berdugo and Triniti Marie White, as college students and third culture kids, they transform international experiences into bold action—improving access to clean water and infrastructure in underserved communities, advancing research on public health and environmental resilience, and collaborating with humanitarian organizations to reimagine development and education systems. Their efforts span continents, from Vietnam to Cameroon, Haiti to the American West, reflecting a shared commitment to empathy-driven innovation.

They teach music, build homes, conduct air quality studies, and use mathematics and engineering to solve pressing global problems. Through filmmaking and storytelling, they nurture intercultural understanding and invite audiences into spaces of emotional connection and dialogue. What unites them is not just their brilliance, but their belief that education, art, and service are powerful tools for change.

We invite you to read more about their inspiring journeys on AAFSW’s official announcement.

AAFSW is grateful to our members for supporting the young members of the Foreign Service community.

Sincerely,

Celine

Celine Ford, President

Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW)

Letter from the President: July 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 21:00:07 GMT

Dear AAFSW Members,

As summer unfolds, we extend our warmest wishes for rest, renewal, and inspiration. As poet Henry James once wrote, “Summer afternoon—summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language.”

In the months ahead, AAFSW is committed to renewing its activities and advancing initiatives that uplift our Foreign Affairs community. We remain dedicated to supporting employees, spouses, partners, and families through thoughtful programming that addresses evolving needs in professional development and family well-being. Our efforts continue to promote learning and mentorship—fostering growth at every stage of service.

We also extend deep appreciation to Ambassador Angela Dickey for her steady leadership and gracious support of AAFSW at DACOR Bacon House. Her stewardship has been invaluable in strengthening collaboration and advancing our shared mission.

As we welcome Ambassador Tom Shannon as the new President of DACOR Bacon House and Ambassador Marcia Bernicat as its Vice President, we look forward to continued partnership and vibrant programming. Likewise, we congratulate the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA)’s incoming President John Dinkelman and thank outgoing President Tom Yazdgerdi for his resilient and thoughtful service through a particularly complex period.

This fall, we are especially proud to highlight the SOSA ceremony in November, which honors exceptional volunteerism abroad. The commitment and compassion shown by Foreign Service members and their families make a lasting difference in the most vulnerable communities and environments. Their work preserves sustainability and exemplifies American values through service and cultural connection. We also look forward to our Ambassadors Speaker Series, dedicated to fostering mutual understanding among global voices, and our Holiday Dinner Gala at the Embassy of Switzerland hosted by His Excellency Ambassador Ralf Heckner and Dr. Ilaria Marconi Heckner, a scholar with deep commitment to interreligious dialogue and historical perspectives.

AAFSW is excited about the impact we can achieve together—especially through the meaningful collaboration among DACOR, AFSA, the Cox Foundation, and our “sister” foreign affairs organizations, which engage regularly in dialogue, shared values, and steadfast support for the Foreign Service community.

Your support to our programs and initiatives is invaluable. Thank you for being part of this vibrant network. Your engagement and spirit of collaboration are what make our shared work so meaningful.

Warm regards,

Celine

Celine Ford, President

Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW)

2025 Merit Scholarship Winners

AAFSW Webmaster — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 21:33:37 GMT

AAFSW is pleased to share the winners of our 2025 youth merit scholarships for college students! Learn more about our winners below:

AAFSW’s Merit Scholarships ($2,500 each)

Lillian Claire Moo

Lilly Moo is currently studying civil engineering at Oregon State University, with a strong interest in sustainable and resilient transportation and planning. She serves as the president of the Oregon State chapter of Engineers Without Borders, where she leads two teams of students working on water collection and management systems in communities in Cameroon and Cambodia. In winter 2025, Lilly will be traveling to Cameroon to connect with their partner community and survey the area for future construction projects.

On campus, Lilly is actively involved in the Sustainable, Healthy, and Resilient Buildings Lab, where she conducts research on indoor air quality in schools. Her work focuses on helping schools monitor air quality and implement filtration measures, particularly during wildfire smoke events.

Outside of her academic and research commitments, Lilly is an avid runner and recently completed her second marathon. She enjoys spending her free time outdoors with friends.

Lilly has demonstrated a strong passion for learning and applying engineering principles to address critical global challenges. Her enthusiasm for developing engineering solutions to enhance public health is evident in her academic and extracurricular pursuits.

Lexy Jane Boudreau

Lexy is a dedicated student pursuing a degree in Applied Mathematics and Industrial Engineering at North Carolina State University. Her unique upbringing across Bermuda, Ukraine, South Korea, Uganda, and Jordan has profoundly shaped her worldview and aspirations.

Lexy is passionate about sustainable global development and is committed to giving back to the diverse communities that have influenced her life. Her recent trip to Vietnam during spring break, where she collaborated with the NGO Children of Vietnam, was a pivotal experience that redefined her academic and professional goals. This experience reinforced her desire to contribute to the betterment of society through her education.

Lexy aims to leverage her expertise in mathematics and engineering to address critical global issues such as healthcare systems, supply chain development, and infrastructure improvement. She envisions herself as an engineer who designs solutions for people rather than profit, driven by a mission to create positive change.

As a third culture kid, Lexy believes her diverse background has equipped her with a unique perspective and a strong sense of purpose. She sees herself not as a bystander to the challenges around her but as an active agent of change, dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the world.

Parker James Peterson

Parker is an incoming junior at Brigham Young University, where he is studying Geography with an emphasis in Geospatial Intelligence. He also plans to double-major in either Data Science or Political Science. If you were to spend an afternoon having lunch with Parker, you might find common ground over a game of chess, a discussion about jazz, or a conversation about fantasy books. Parker has had the privilege of living overseas in South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Mexico, and Haiti, which has enriched his life with diverse cultural experiences.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Parker has a passion for music and has served as a music teacher. He is proficient in playing the piano, alto saxophone, and baritone saxophone. Under his tutelage, several of his students have achieved recognition as top musicians in the state. During his time living in Los Angeles, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa, Parker became aware of the struggles faced by many students and took it upon himself to prepare meals for them.

Parker's commitment to service is evident through his involvement in various projects, including building homes, working on local farms, teaching children with disabilities, and strengthening youth organizations. He has also actively participated in fundraising and food drives for organizations such as the Red Cross and the Loudoun County Food Bank, among others. Parker's dedication to helping others and his diverse experiences make him a well-rounded and compassionate individual.

AAFSW’s Twice Exceptional Merit Scholarship ($2,500)

Eva Danis Berdugo

Eva is an aspiring filmmaker with a passion for projecting her creativity onto a visual medium. As a third culture kid, she leverages her diverse background to connect with a global audience. Her goal is to inspire discussion and evoke emotions through her work, especially in a time where empathy is crucial.

Having lived in Italy, Spain, and France, Eva considers each of these places her home. For her, being a third culture kid means not belonging to a single culture but embracing multiple ones. Fluent in Italian, Eva plans to use her language skills to enhance her career and broaden her communication reach. She also aspires to experience Asia to gain a deeper understanding of a region she feels she doesn't know enough about.

Eva's international experiences have fostered a keen cultural understanding and a profound interest in literature and film. She possesses a sharp eye for detail and an advanced understanding of psychology, which she applies to her film work. Independent, engaged, and a skilled learner, Eva excels in communication and values the diverse perspectives of those around her.

She is aware of her fortune in being surrounded by a variety of people and viewpoints, and she feels most at home in a diverse community. Eva is committed to contributing to a knowledgeable and invigorating community where learning about and accepting others is highly valued.

Best Essay Scholarship ($1,000)

Katherine Alicia Nicodemus

Katherine “Kat” Nicodemus is a junior at George Mason University, pursuing a degree in Social Work. Born in Virginia, she has also spent part of her childhood living in Germany, Austria, and Ghana. These experiences enriched her global perspective and strengthened her values of empathy and compassion, cultural awareness, and community service. These values are central to her academic focus and career aspirations.

Kat is a dedicated student with a strong academic record and a clear commitment to excellence. Her passion for helping others is reflected not only in the classroom but also in her hands-on work as an ABA therapist, where she supports children on the autism spectrum. In addition to her professional role, she actively volunteers to help her community, further demonstrating her initiative and leadership in service-oriented settings.

Outside of her academic and professional life, Kat has nurtured a lifelong love for singing and maintains an active lifestyle through volleyball, tennis, and regular workouts. As the middle child between an older brother and a younger sister, she treasures her family deeply and credits them for her resilience and compassion. She also finds joy and comfort in the companionship of her two affectionate cats, who are never far from her side.

Receiving this merit scholarship is an affirmation of Kat’s hard work, character, and potential. It will not only support her academic journey but also empower her continued efforts to create meaningful change in the lives of others. She is sincerely grateful to AAFSW for considering her and for investing in the future of student leaders like herself.

Judy Felt Memorial Volunteerism Scholarship ($1,000)

Triniti Marie White

Triniti White is a sophomore Criminal Justice major and Spanish minor at Hampton University. She is originally from Woodbridge, Virginia, and a proud graduate of Gar-Field High School, where she earned an Advanced Studies Diploma and graduated Cum Laude with the Governor’s Seal for Academic Excellence. On campus, she is an active member of Legal Minds: The Criminal Justice Honor Society and performs with The Hampton University Marching Force.

Her passion for justice and service led her to intern at BerkleyNet in workers’ compensation and graduate from the Prince William County Police Explorer Program. That experience confirmed her decision to pursue criminal justice and fueled her commitment to helping reform law enforcement policy.

She has always paired leadership with giving back—whether it was volunteering with VA for Kamala to register voters, supporting a local Easter egg hunt with her sisters from the National Council of Negro Women, or managing production at the Grand Pre Alumni Council Pageant. Each experience reminded her that change begins with action and service.

Her long-term goal is to work in law enforcement policy reform and build systems that are fair, transparent, and community focused. She is committed to using this opportunity to grow, lead, and give back. Triniti is also dedicated to fostering a sense of community and inclusivity in all her endeavors, believing that true progress is achieved through collaboration and mutual respect. As she continues her academic and professional journey, she remains focused on making a positive impact and advocating for justice and equity in all aspects of society.

Call for Artists Art and Diplomacy Series – Celebrating Creativity Across Cultures

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 03 Jul 2025 16:22:41 GMT

Call For Artists - Time Sensitive Opportunity! As part of our Art & Diplomacy Series, AAFSW is seeking entries from 2D artists from the American Foreign Service and former USAID communities living in the DMV. Eligible participants include EFMs and MOHs. The submission deadline is July 10, 2025.

AAFSW is proud to continue its support of American foreign affairs visual artists through the sponsorship of the 2026 Call for Entries at the Arts Club of Washington, part of AAFSW's ongoing Art and Diplomacy Series. This initiative honors the creativity and vision of foreign service employees, spouses, and partners, spotlighting their contributions to global dialogue and understanding through the transformative power of art.

For this year’s call, AAFSW especially encourages submissions from Foreign Service Artists, including those from the former USAID community. You are invited to submit work that reflects your unique perspectives, experiences, and creative journeys.

Group Submission Support: AAFSW will sponsor a group submission and cover the entry and hanging fees for selected artists.

How to Apply: Please find out more details on the group submission process below and how to participate. Artists must be residents of the DMV area.

Submission Deadline: July 10, 2025 at 12:00 pm.

Warmly,

Celine Ford, President, AAFSW

How to Apply

Email office@aafsw.org with the following:

JPG images of 4 works of your original 2D art. File names/numbers must correspond with a numbered image list. Example file name format: 01_LastName_Title.jpg
A numbered image list including the Artist Name, Title, Medium, Year, Dimensions and Price.
A brief Artist's Bio.

Incomplete entries will not be considered.

PLEASE READ FIRST BEFORE APPLYING - SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Happy Independence Day from AAFSW

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 16:11:39 GMT

On this July 4th, let’s celebrate not only the founding of a nation, but the enduring spirit that unites and uplifts it—kindness, community, and a belief in the greater good.

As de Tocqueville reflected, “America is great because America is good.” May that quiet goodness continue to shine through our actions, wherever we are in the world.

Wishing you a joyful and inspiring Independence Day!

Warmly,

Celine Ford, The Board of Directors and our Collaborators

AAFSW Cultural Event with H.E. Shaikha Aisha Alkhalifa: An Afternoon of Bahraini Hospitality

AAFSW Webmaster — Sat, 21 Jun 2025 01:51:54 GMT

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

More photos:

Celebrating Austrian American Friendship Through Culture and History

AAFSW Webmaster — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 23:04:03 GMT

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

More Photos:

President's Letter — June 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Sun, 15 Jun 2025 22:57:28 GMT

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

Become a Neighborhood Sponsor: Help Newcomers Navigate DMV Area

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 16:21:01 GMT

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).

First Community Coffee a Success

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 21:55:47 GMT

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

More photos:

Annual Luncheon Celebrated AAFSW's Volunteers

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 00:06:01 GMT

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!

SOSA Nomination Deadline Extended

AAFSW Webmaster — Sun, 08 Jun 2025 17:03:29 GMT

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

AAFSW Private Art Tour at The Plains and Middleburg, Virginia

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 03:20:08 GMT

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

View some photos below:

Honoring the Service and Sacrifice of U.S. Foreign Service Diplomats

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 27 May 2025 17:07:39 GMT

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.

Sincerely,

Celine

Celebrating Women’s Achievements, DACOR Bacon House’s Bicentennial Anniversary and AAFSW 65th Anniversary

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 18:21:06 GMT

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

President's Letter - April 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 01:45:48 GMT

Celebrating Women’s Achievements and Welcoming New Beginnings

March, celebrated as Women's History Month, provided a meaningful opportunity to honor the extraordinary contributions of women across all fields. From the inspiring program at DACOR Bacon House to the heartfelt tribute to Sarah Morrow for her nearly decade of dedicated service as Content Manager, this period has been a true testament to the power of history, empowerment, and progress.

At the same time, we embrace new beginnings, enthusiastically welcoming Nicole Spiridakis into her expanded role as the editor of the Global Link newsletter, while she continues her impactful work as Website Manager and Social Media Coordinator. These transitions reflect the collaborative and forward-thinking spirit that defines AAFSW.

Looking back on recent milestones, we are reminded of the incredible influence of women within our community and beyond. The celebrations at DACOR Bacon House and the recognition of Sarah Morrow’s service have made this season one of deep appreciation and gratitude.

Celebrating Women's History Month at DACOR Bacon House

March’s Women’s History Month program, co-hosted by DACOR and AAFSW, was a truly memorable event that celebrated and promoted women’s history and empowerment. This special gathering highlighted the remarkable roles women have played in shaping our society over the centuries and showcased their exceptional vision and leadership across diverse domains. Heartfelt gratitude to Sheila Switzer, AAFSW Programs Chair.

The beautiful and historic DACOR Bacon House provided the ideal setting for this inspiring program. The warm hospitality, delightful luncheon, and thoughtful arrangements created an inviting atmosphere for all attendees. We are deeply grateful to Angela Dickey, President, Dacor Bacon House, and the DACOR team for their generous support in making this event a success.

A highlight of the program was the engaging panel discussion, which featured three highly 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, who s the first woman to serve in 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 and 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 profound commitment to understanding and documenting interreligious dialogue and historical perspectives. Her projects, including her work on religious experiences in East Africa and academic collaborations, reflect 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 cultural and media organizations' impact worldwide. A trailblazer in promoting women in the arts and diplomacy, Ms. Du Plain’s work—spanning initiatives like Passport DC’s Around the World Embassy Tour and the Helen Hayes Awards—exemplifies her dedication to showcasing women’s achievements and contributions.

Their inspiring insights and unique perspectives brought incredible depth to the discussions, reminding us of the ongoing journey toward gender equality and empowerment. The panelists’ exceptional contributions highlighted the strength, vision, and determination of women in diverse fields, and their achievements serve as an enduring inspiration to us all.

This event also provided an opportunity to reflect on the rich history of the DACOR Bacon House, now celebrating its bicentennial, which added historical significance to the day’s celebration. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Angela and the DACOR team for their leadership and generosity, which made this meaningful event possible. Collaborations like these are vital to amplifying the voices of women and promoting the causes that unite our community.

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

Sharing Our Gratitude for Our Dear Sarah Morrow, and Welcoming Nicole Spiridakis in This New Role

It is with heartfelt appreciation that we share the incredible contributions of our dear Sarah. For nearly ten years, she has been an integral part of the AAFSW family, bringing creativity, dedication, and exceptional talent to our newsletters and communications. Her work has not only kept us informed but has inspired and connected us as a community.

Since joining us in July 2015, Sarah has been a cornerstone of our communications, bringing creativity, precision, and passion to every newsletter and digital platform. Her ability to craft engaging content has informed and inspired members while elevating our presence in the wider community. She has led workshops, mentored team members, and implemented impactful social media strategies with remarkable success.

We have all cherished Sarah’s passion for keeping us abreast of the events within our Foreign Service community and ensuring that our board’s messaging reaches far and wide. Beyond her professional expertise, Sarah's genuine dedication to connecting with people and strengthening our community has been a gift to us all.

As Sarah steps away from her role as Content Manager, we celebrate her incredible contributions and the legacy she leaves behind. We wish her all the best as she embarks on this exciting new chapter in her life.

At the same time, we are delighted to welcome Nicole Spiridakis, who will take on the role of Global Link newsletter editor while continuing to serve as our Website Manager and Social Media Coordinator. With her extensive experience in journalism, recipe development, and content creation, Nicole brings immense talent and passion to her new responsibilities. Her dedication to meaningful storytelling and the AAFSW mission assures us that the newsletter remains in excellent hands.

Sarah, thank you for your incredible contribution. You will always have a special place in the hearts of AAFSW members and the Board. And Nicole, welcome aboard on this new journey—together, we look forward to continuing the great work of connecting and supporting our Foreign Service community.

Looking ahead, AAFSW remains steadfast in its mission to support the foreign affairs community in meaningful ways. One of our latest initiatives focuses on fostering stronger connections and providing valuable resources for USAID returnees, FS/EFM professionals, and volunteers. This effort demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that the needs of our community continue to be met as we move forward.

We could not accomplish all that we do without the support of our amazing members and friends. Your unwavering dedication and generosity provide the foundation for our success. Whether attending programs, engaging with our initiatives, or contributing behind the scenes, you are the heart of AAFSW.

We are truly inspired by the accomplishments and transitions within our organization and grateful for the partnerships and contributions that make these achievements possible. Together, we will continue to honor the past, celebrate the present, and create impactful initiatives for the future.

Yours sincerely,

Celine

Consider Sponsoring an International Fellow

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 01:37:54 GMT

For the last year, AAFSW has collaborated with National Defense University (NDU) to identify sponsors for their International Fellows (IFs). As the new academic year approaches, we will be looking for new sponsors again. Probably the best recommendation for the program is that those of us who sponsored this year plan to do so again for the upcoming year.

So what is it all about? NDU is located at Ft. McNair in D.C. Among their offerings are a number of courses available to approximately 130 senior military officers (IFs) from all over the world. Many of the IFs ask for community sponsors while they are here from June to June. Some of the IFs are here by themselves, but most bring their families, at least for part of the year.

The ideal community sponsor is here for the full year and maintains monthly contact with the IF or their family. They honestly have a very full schedule and don’t have time to meet every month. There is a picnic sponsored by NDU in the Fall and an international meal offered by the IFs in May. Otherwise, the sponsor is there to help them and basically be a friendly resource for the IFs.Lodging and financial support is provided for the IFs and none is expected from the sponsor. NDU asks the sponsor to fill out a form to introduce themselves before the pairing assignments are made, allowing them to make mutually conducive groups. No military background is required, just a willingness to share our way of life and learn about theirs.

Following is a snapshot of some sponsor experiences 2024 - 2025. The IFs included men from Bosnia-Hersegovina, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Maldives.This particular group shared concerts, a ceremony by the Old Guard, an Indonesian festival, Halloween, a “Friendsgiving” for 17 (with two Halal turkeys and all the fixings), a more traditional Thanksgiving for six people, a Christmas party, a ceremony for the NDU Hall of Fame, spouse presentations on Egypt and Malaysia, an Iftar dinner during Ramadan for the Muslim IFs (pictured here), more concerts and lots of emails. By all accounts, friends were made and mutual appreciation developed. Some people consider it a soft diplomacy.

The IF sponsored feast (apparently one of the highlights of the year for NDU) is coming up soon and so is the search for new sponsors to supplement the returning sponsors. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Melanie McFeeters (mcfeetersfamily@gmail.com) or Dorothea Cypher-Erickson at dorothea.erick@gmail.com . You will be glad you did!

See the brochure
Read the FAQ

Photos below:

AAFSW at the Foreign Service Onboarding Fair

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 02:59:33 GMT

AAFSW was honored to participate in the Foreign Service Onboarding Fair on April 8, 2025 at the Harry S. Truman Building where over 100 attendees engaged with our mission and programs.

We are especially grateful to Lily White and Ondrej Hindl for their outstanding representation, showcasing the depth of AAFSW’s support and initiatives for the Foreign Service community. Their dedication made a lasting impact as incoming professionals prepare to embark on this exciting Foreign Service journey.

It was truly a pleasure to share insights, exchange experiences, and connect with the newest members of the Foreign Service. As they step into their roles, AAFSW remains committed to providing resources, guidance, and a strong support network.

We are grateful to the Foreign Service Institute for this invitation, as we look forward to welcoming more Foreign Service professionals and continuing our mission to serve the foreign service community.

Celine Ford

AAFSW BookStore is Now Books & Global Treasures!

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 16:08:36 GMT

The popular “AAFSW BookStore” is now the new and improved “AAFSW Books & Global Treasures” shop. We still have a wide array of used books but are now offering a rich selection of global artisan wares, folk art, textiles, jewelry and collectibles. We also hold special events, such as “Meet the author”. Watch for our announcements posted near the elevators.

Generous donations from your colleagues and friends arrive all the time, and this is your opportunity to discover a continuously updated assortment. Everything is reasonably priced and is looking for a new home. You will know that your purchases benefit AAFSW scholarships and programs.

Location: Foggy Bottom in the State Department building. Head down the Cafeteria steps and turn left.

Hours of Operation: We are open Monday thru Thursday from 11:30am-2:30pm.

Contact: Brian Neumann, 202-223-5796 or bookstore@aafsw.org.

Volunteers welcome to join the team! See more information about volunteering with Books & Global Treasures.

The AAFSW Evacuation Support Network Steps Up

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 20:29:50 GMT

For more than 40 years, the AAFSW Evacuation Support Network (ESN) has been aiding and supporting Foreign Affairs families who have been evacuated suddenly due to natural disasters, political turmoil, and worldwide pandemics. We are now expanding our support for colleagues who unexpectedly arrive back in the United States.

As a volunteer-driven organization, we are committed to offering practical and compassionate assistance in a welcoming and accessible way. Our volunteers help by:

Greeting arrivals at the airport
Coordinating transportation
Providing babysitting services
Offering guidance on schools, housing, and childcare options
Mentoring families in need, fostering community and connection

Our community room serves as a welcoming space where families can receive essential items such as clothing and furnishings—and support.

We have a dedicated network of volunteers, but we need your help! We are partnering with Foreign Service organizations such as the Foreign Service Youth Foundation, the USAID Alumni Association, and other groups committed to supporting the FS Community.

Learn more about the ESN, and visit our volunteer page to fill out a questionnaire.

Jenny Kocher & Ann La Porta Acting Co-Chairs of the ESN

Seeking Nominations for the 2025 SOSA, CCE-EFM, and Tragen Awards

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 20:19:33 GMT

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA), the Champions of Career Enhancement for Eligible Family Members (CCE-EFM) Award, and the Eleanor Dodson Tragen Award.

The nomination deadline for all three awards is May 31, 2025. Nominations must be submitted via the SOSA/CCE-EFM/Tragen 2025 Awards Google Form

Questions? For SOSA and CCE-EFM-related questions, please contact us. For more on the Tragen Award, visit DACOR's website.

Who is Eligible? Direct-hire employees and family members are eligible for the following three awards: the Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA), the Champions of Career Enhancement for Eligible Family Members (CCE-EFM) Award, and the Eleanor Dodson Tragen Award.

The SOSA and CCE-EFM Awards are administered by the AAFSW in a unique partnership with the Department of State and are considered equivalent to Departmental Awards. AAFSW is a non-profit community and employee service organization for Foreign Affairs spouses, partners and employees. The awards are supported by the Bureau of Global Talent Management’s Global Community Liaison Office (GTM/GCLO). The SOSA is considered to be the Department’s premiere award for overseas community service and volunteerism by the Foreign Service community that goes above and beyond the call of duty.

The CCE-EFM Award is focused on the enhancement of EFM career opportunities.

The Tragen Award honors a spouse, family member, or member of household (MOH), who has effectively advocated and promoted rights, programs, services, and benefits for FS families. The Tragen Award is sponsored and administered by DACOR, an organization of foreign affairs professionals. The three awards will be presented at the annual AAFSW awards ceremony in November 2025.

Join the 11th Annual Around the World 5K!

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:02:22 GMT

By Leah Moorefield Evans, Around the World 5k Co-coordinator.

Get ready to lace up your running shoes and take part in the 11th annual Around the World 5K! We invite Foreign Service and expat participants from all over the globe to run or walk a 5K at their own pace, anytime during the month of April. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to stay active, this event is a fantastic way to connect with our worldwide running community. Signing up is simple—just click here!

You can also join our Facebook page or follow along on our website at www.aroundtheworld5k.com. Once you've completed your 5K, snap a picture and share it with the group to celebrate your achievement, and to be eligible for prizes! Remember, we are the ultimate participation event without awards for speed, dedication, or talent. We hope that celebrating movement and community is the ultimate reward for our event.

One of the highlights of the Around the World 5K is the chance to win fun prizes. Every participant who shares a photo of their run or walk is automatically entered into a drawing for a custom pottery mug featuring the event’s logo. Additionally, we have other contests, with chances to win a running book, dog treats for your walking companion, and t-shirts among other prizes. We always encourage team participation! Gather a team, set up a time, find a course, and take off! If you need a team planning packet, visit our website!

This year, however, brings some changes. Many in our community are facing unexpected moves, job transitions, uncertainty about the future, and other challenges. With this in mind, we are shifting our focus to community support rather than fundraising for a specific charity. Instead of collecting donations for a single organization, our runners and walkers are encouraged to give to a personal cause of your choice. If you choose to donate, you can share the total amount with the event organizers, and we’ll celebrate the collective generosity of our community. We hope that you find a cause that is important to you and honor our event with a small donation. Our goal is to collectively give $3000 this year.

We have always been so grateful to our sponsors who have given so generously and thoughtfully over the years. This year, our sponsors will also be taking part in this spirit of support by sharing ways they are giving back to our community. Visit our website or Facebook page to learn more about our sponsors and their contributions. While we will still have some prizes, the emphasis this year is on participation, encouragement, and coming together in a time of transition. Whether you run fast or slow, walk alone or with friends, this event is about more than just crossing a finish line—it’s about supporting and uplifting each other.

We hope you’ll join us for this special edition of the Around the World 5K. Sign up today, invite your friends and family, and let’s make this year’s event one of kindness, encouragement, and shared success. See you on the course—wherever in the world that may be!

President's Letter March 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 17:40:38 GMT

Dear Members and Friends of AAFSW,

We are delighted to announce the availability of four prestigious scholarships provided by the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW) for 2025. These scholarships aim to recognize and reward the exceptional talents and achievements of students who are dependents of current AAFSW members.

There are four AAFSW merit scholarships available, which include two "Twice Exceptional Merit Scholarships" and two "Merit Scholarships." Additionally, we have the Judy Felt Memorial Volunteerism Scholarship and the Best Essay Award.

The application deadline for all scholarships is April 27, 2025.

Scholarship Overview:

The AAFSW Twice Exceptional Merit Scholarship offers two scholarships valued at $2,500 each. Eligibility is open to high school seniors, gap year students, college freshmen, and sophomores with an individual education program (IEP), Section 504 plan, or an equivalent program. An essay submission is needed, and the application deadline is April 27, 2025. Winners may request anonymity.

The AAFSW Merit Scholarship for college students provides two scholarships valued at $2,500 each. Eligibility is for Foreign Service dependents who are college freshmen, sophomores, or juniors. Selection criteria include academic merit, extracurricular activities, service to others, leadership, and exceptional circumstances. An essay submission is needed, and the application deadline is April 27, 2025.

The Judy Felt Memorial Volunteerism Scholarship offers one scholarship valued at $1,000. Applicants of either the Twice Exceptional or Merit Scholarships are automatically considered.

The AAFSW Best Essay Award offers an award valued at $1,000 and is open to all scholarship applicants.

We are also thrilled to invite all scholarship winners and their families to a special ceremony in collaboration with the Foreign Service Youth Foundation (FSYF). This event will be held at the Harry S. Truman (HST) Building in June 2025. It promises to be an inspiring occasion celebrating the achievements and dedication of our recipients.

Submit your applications and take advantage of this remarkable opportunity to further your educational journey. Eligibility: Applicants must be dependents of current AAFSW members.

To apply and for membership information, please visit our scholarship information page.

AAFSW is committed to supporting USAID families under forced returns in the DMV area. Efforts will focus on providing comprehensive support and resources to help those facing challenging transitions.

AAFSW now offers a comprehensive database of housing ads and resources to the community. In addition, our dedicated volunteers with real estate backgrounds will serve as points of contact. Names and contact information for these volunteers will soon be posted on the website and Livelines.

AAFSW’s expert volunteers specializing in housing and job searches in the DMV area will hold monthly coffee mornings and round table discussions in our office community room. These gatherings will also provide opportunities for returnees to network within the AAFSW community. Donations of warm clothes and items for children will be available. AAFSW will also deliver workshops focused on job search and job training. Our volunteer experts will offer upskilling opportunities and share valuable announcements.

These initiatives are designed to enhance the ability to address emerging challenges effectively and serve our community better. AAFSW will post and share further details soon.

Thank you for your invaluable and continuous support.

Celine

AAFSW's 2025 Youth Merit Scholarships Open for Applications!

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 17:53:00 GMT

AAFSW's yearly merit scholarships for college students are now open! The deadline for submitting all materials has been extended to May 11, 2025. Click here for the 2025 Scholarship application page which includes all information and forms.

AAFSW offers two scholarships per year for member families. Current college freshmen, sophomores, or juniors continuing college are eligible for this scholarship. Two scholarships are available for $2,500 each, and all applicants are considered for the Best Essay Scholarship ($1000 award) and the Judy Felt Memorial Scholarship. Learn more about our scholarships.

Kicking Off 2025: Highlights and Community Support in January

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 19:04:12 GMT

Dear Members and Friends of AAFSW,

It is my pleasure to share with you the busy start we have had this year at AAFSW.

On January 30, 2025, AAFSW was honored to host the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Iraq to the United States of America, Nazar Al Khirullah. This program inaugurated our Ambassador Speaker Series in 2025 and welcomed the new year. AAFSW’s Program Chair Sheila Switzer, members, friends and guests were grateful to hear from Ambassador Al Khirullah about the current situation and the prospects for the people of Iraq and the region.

The rich history of Iraq and Mesopotamia, one of the six cradles of civilization, significantly contributed to the development of human society. In light of recent events and the emergence of new leaderships, the Ambassador's insights were particularly valuable, as there is an opportunity in the region to uphold the values of democracy, freedom, and entrepreneurialism. In a private and off-the-record discussion, Ambassador Al Khirullah shared with our members, guests, and volunteers how the shift from autocracies to empowering individuals could serve as a role model for other countries still under authoritarian control, setting a vision for the future.

On January 28, “a significant development took place in Goma, with rebels seizing the airport, the largest in East Congo. This event had a substantial impact on hundreds of thousands of displaced people. In Kinshasa, 1,600 km (1,000 miles) west of Goma, protesters attacked a U.N. compound and several embassies, including those of Rwanda, France, and the United States”.

On Thursday, January 30, AAFSW Evacuee Support Network Co-Chairs Melanie McFeeters and Dorothea Cypher-Erickson were informed that 250 evacuees, including 90 children, would arrive on a chartered flight with dogs, cats, and a guinea pig on Friday, January 31. The evacuees were limited to one backpack each, and with the weather generally in the 80s, everyone needed warm clothes, coats and hats. Within 24 hours, a task force led by Melanie and Dorothea sprang into action.

A heartfelt thank you to those who have been tirelessly answering emails and coordinating donation pickups without rest for days. Your efforts—whether buying snacks for kids or finding help for various needs—have been invaluable.

Gratitude also goes out to everyone involved in handling donations across D.C., Virginia, and Maryland. Your contributions, from bringing pet food and supplies, printing and bagging items, picking up donations, making calls to assist, and donating, have all been deeply appreciated. This has truly been a team effort.

On Monday, February 3, AAFSW hosted a coffee at our office for evacuee families in need of more supplies from your generous donations. AAFSW’s volunteers were on-site to provide additional information, particularly regarding schools and babysitting.

This year, AAFSW will continue to address eligible family employment (EFM) employment in coordination with the Department of State. Current initiatives and projects aim to enhance employment opportunities for EFMs and identify areas where additional support or resources are needed.

Collaboration on evacuation and force-evacuation support procedures, supporting unaccompanied tour (UT) families in the greater Washington D.C. area and families during crises are also a priority, through collaboration with GCLO UT, and more inter-agency collaboration.

Plans for our USAID colleagues' return home have been addressed. Some now have up to 30 days to do so, with potential extensions for schooling, medical reasons, and close-down tasks. We understand everyone's concerns and the need to act thoughtfully, allowing time for this while remaining observant.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to all who helped during this time. Your unwavering support and dedication are instrumental in our journey. We could not have come this far without you.

Sincerely,

Celine

Book Presentation and Fundraiser at AAFSW Books and Global Treasures

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 17:57:22 GMT

Many AAFSW members and DOS employees gathered on Tuesday, February 4, 2025 for an inspiring presentation and book signing by Jonna Mendez regarding her new published project entitled: "In True Face." As part of our continuing fundraising efforts, AAFSW received 20% of all book sales at the event.

Jonna Mendez is a retired CIA intelligence officer with 27 years of service. When she retired, Jonna was the Chief of Disguise at the CIA. Since that time, Jonna has continued her career as a photographer, a consultant / lecturer, and an author. Jonna is also a founding board member of the International Spy Museum. She and her husband, Tony Mendez, have published a number of books together, including ARGO -- which was made into an Oscar-winning film.

"In True Face," which was presented at AAFSW Books and Global Treasures, is Jonna's most recent book. Many of Jonna's talks can be found online. Currently, Jonna is working on her next, and she says her last, book. Then, Jonna says, she will retire -- again.

AAFSW is grateful to Jonna Mendez for her thought-provoking book presentation and is looking forward to her next project.

Joanna Athanasopoulos Owen, PhD

AAFSW Public Relations and Publicity Chair

AAFSW Evacuation Support 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 00:52:53 GMT

If you know anyone affected by ongoing evacuations, please let them know to reach out to our Evacuee Support Network (ESN) and list what they need the most.

Please let us know if you wish to help with ESN.

Join to become an active volunteer! Subscribe to receive our news. Donate to enable our teams and benefit evacuees. Contact us with any questions.

We anticipate a high volume of inquiries and offers to help (thank you!) and we may not be able to respond to every email immediately. We will be in touch as soon as we can.

AAFSW, where the Foreign Service becomes a family!

AAFSW Evacuation Support Network: Kinshasa 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 15:39:45 GMT

As some of you have noted, we are now preparing for an evacuation from Kinshasa, Congo.

Post has shared that they were notified of ordered departure on January 28 and anticipate the first families arriving over the weekend.

If you know anyone affected by ongoing evacuations, please let them know to reach out to our Evacuation Support Network and list what they'd like to receive - A team will be at Dulles when the first evacuees arrive this Friday, January 31, and will supply warm clothes, and other necessary items.

If you wish to help and donate clothes, toys, or lend cribs, seat boosters, etc., there will be a donation box at the AAFSW BookStore in the basement. We are working to offer other donation points in the DMV. You can write to the team using the contact form in the link.

If you wish to help in any way, please let us know here.

AAFSW, where the Foreign Service becomes a family!

AAFSW Seeks Office Manager

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 22:08:36 GMT

Introduction

The Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide is seeking an Office Manager - available 20-30 hours a week - passionate about serving the U.S. Foreign Service community and growing the organization through membership outreach and development. The successful candidate will oversee day-to-day operations and ensure friendly service to its members. The ideal applicant will exhibit strong organizational skills, enjoy overseeing multiple assignments, value operational excellence, be adept at social media, and possess strong interpersonal skills.

This is a part-time, hybrid position located in Arlington, VA, with flexible hours and an option to telework several days a week. The starting pay for this position is GS-06 equivalent, with an increase to GS-07 after 6 months of satisfactory performance. Other benefits include paid annual and sick leave, telework flexibility, a U.S. Department of State badge, parking privileges, among others.

Deadline to apply: COB February 21, 2025 (EST).

Summary of Responsibilities and Qualifications

The Office Manager is responsible for a variety of administrative and member-based duties as described (Other duties may be assigned):

Event Planning, Member Services, and Volunteer Coordination

Assist with event planning and coordination, including compiling attendee lists, submitting access requests, assisting with guest check-in, arranging VIP guest escorts, and managing venue/room reservations at the State Department, in liaison with Diplomatic Security (DS).
Coordinate volunteer activities with the committees’ chairs and build strong relationships with new volunteers.
Participate and contribute to membership growth strategies and programs.
Collate, record, and present summaries on membership growth and activity.
Availability for some fundraising dinners about three times a year.
Availability to help with the association’s Art and Bookfair, held once a year for over two weeks in the fall at the State Department.

Communications and Database Management

Respond to queries made by phone and through email; draft and send correspondence, respecting established templates.
Compile and electronically disseminate information, including board meeting agendas and minutes, invitations, flyers, etc.
Organize association files and databases, promptly entering and updating data as needed.
Manage and maintain the association management system, verifying and updating the membership database.
Coordinate requests for flyers with the vice-president in charge of communication.
Print flyers, award certificates, and other collateral as needed.

Office Administration and Bookkeeping

Maintain a clean, well-organized, and welcoming office for use by board members and volunteers.
Assist and collaborate with AAFSW Board of Directors, committees’ chairs, program managers, volunteers, contractors, and other internal clients.
Perform minor bookkeeping tasks, including billing and processing membership fees, event sales, and miscellaneous receipts; seek approval and pay routine invoices.
Maintain office and computer equipment upgrades as needed to ensure quality performance.
Oversee supplies inventory and order as needed.

Qualifications:

Strong organizational skills with ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Creative critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Attention to detail and demonstrated experience with data entry, data maintenance, and reporting.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Familiarity with social media communications.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office; proficiency or ability to quickly learn Google Workspace, Canva, and Wild Apricot.
Good understanding of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Foreign Service community.
Familiarity with accounting software Quicken, and web-based CRM, or membership software, would be a plus.
Hold an active background check or be able to obtain one upon hiring.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send a resume, cover letter, and estimated availability to efmemployment@aafsw.org. Candidates invited for an interview will be required to send three references prior to the interview. Deadline is COB February, 21, 2025 (Eastern Standard Time).

About AAFSW

Created in 1960, the Associates of American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW) is a 501(c)(3) membership-based non-profit association affiliated with the U.S. Department of State. AAFSW is dedicated to supporting the needs of the Community of U.S. Foreign Affairs agencies, including Foreign Service and Civil Service employees, spouses, partners, members of household and retirees thanks to the engagement of its volunteers. AAFSW is an equal opportunity employer. For more information, please visit aafsw.org.

Donation Resources to Support CA Wildfire Aid

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 17:37:43 GMT

Dear AAFSW Members and Friends,

We are deeply saddened by the devastating wildfires currently affecting the Los Angeles area. A state of emergency has been issued, and thousands of residents have been evacuated from their homes. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this disaster.

If you feel compelled to help, here are some resources:

California Community Foundation's Wildfire Recovery Fund / Wildfire Recovery Fund - California Community Foundation

GlobalGiving's California Wildfire Relief Fund / Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation | Kindful

Chefs for California / World Central Kitchen

Pasadena Humane Society to support pet evacuations / Pasadena Humane | Compassionate Care for Animals Since 1903

Thank you for your generosity and compassion during this challenging time.

Best regards,

Celine

Letter from the President - January 2025

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 17:29:56 GMT

Gratitude and Growth: AAFSW's Journey Forward

Dear AAFSW Members and Friends,

Happy New Year and welcome to 2025! We are deeply grateful for the incredible support and generosity of our members and donors, and the dedication of our community. Your contributions have made a significant impact in furthering our mission.

In 2024, we received generous donations in memory of Betty Swope and Tom Switzer, as well as from our 2024 Annual Book Fair (ABF), our Dec. 6th Gala Fundraiser, Giving Tuesday, Youth Scholarships, Awards, and general contributions. Each donation has played a vital role.

It was a pleasure and an honor to greet you at our events and programs throughout 2024 year at embassies, and the Harry S. Truman Building (HST). We also participated in partner events such as onboarding, retirement ceremonies, and support of our foreign-born members with the Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO) and the Inter Agencies Round Table (IART).

We are especially grateful for the visibility and support that Secretary Blinken and Ms. Evan Ryan brought to this year's Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA) ceremony, as well as for the donations and words of support from Former Secretary Baker and Mrs. Baker and Former Secretary Dr. Condoleezza Rice. Their involvement has highlighted the importance of our work and the impact on our community globally.

Our Crisis Fund has been instrumental in supporting spouses in dire need of advice and financial support. Our virtual workshops and partner events have been valuable resources, and we have been actively involved in National Defense University (NDU)-related events, evacuation support, and the Art & Diplomacy event.

As we move forward into 2025, we remain committed to supporting the foreign service community and fostering connections through our events and initiatives. We look forward to seeing you this year and sharing more meaningful experiences together. Your generosity and involvement inspire us to continue making a positive impact in our foreign affairs community.

Best regards and best wishes for 2025,

Celine Ford

AAFSW’s Art and Diplomacy Series: Meet the Artists!

AAFSW Webmaster — Sat, 28 Dec 2024 17:52:30 GMT

Join us on January 5, 2025 from 3:00 pm- 5:00 pm.

Happy Hour at Chef Geoff from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm.

Dear members and friends of AAFSW,

I am delighted to announce the closing event of AAFSW’s Art and Diplomacy Series. Join us on January 5, 2025, from 3:00 pm-5:00 pm at the National United Methodist Church, 3401 Nebraska Ave., NW, Washington, DC, to welcome the new year and celebrate the success of our exhibition.

I am sharing the words of the artists from the opening. Join us with your loved ones and friends to meet the artists and show your support. The exhibition has been an incredible platform to highlight the talents and inspirations within our foreign service community. We believe that art has a unifying effect, bringing people together and fostering a sense of community.

We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating the enriching power of art and the mutual understanding of our global village and culture. After the event, please join us for Happy Hour at Chef Geoff, 3201 New Mexico Ave, NW, Washington, DC, 20026.

Happy Holidays!

Warm regards,

Celine Ford

President, AAFSW

From the Artists:

Andrea

“The arts are powerful diplomacy and international relations tools, facilitating cross-cultural understanding and cooperation. Art transcends language barriers, creating empathy and promoting soft power. As a diplomatic spouse, I have lived in many countries, including Jamaica, Poland, Hungary, Romania, Ukraine, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

I have witnessed the meaning of art in various forms, from skillful wood carvings to finely painted porcelains and Ikat clothing. In Uzbekistan, the richness of their culture, which evolved from trading along the Silk Road, is expressed in handmade artworks such as wood-carved columns, painted ceramics, and Ikat clothing. Tashkent International Women’s Group allowed me to meet talented artists who incorporate Uzbek symbols, such as pomegranates and chili peppers, into their work.

These symbols connect cultures and create meaningful connections. My fluid art fascinated many Uzbek artists, and my works were featured in local galleries and a museum in Tashkent.

This multicultural cooperation exemplifies how art brings diplomacy to life and encourages dialogues about social and political issues.”

Andrew

“As a documentary photographer, writer, and explorer, I am a proud member of The Explorer's Club, the Nautical Archaeological Society, an Eagle Scout, and a Dive Master. My journey began working for newspapers as a staff writer and photographer, which eventually led me to spend years on documentary projects in Mexico, Central America, Eastern Europe, and South Asia. Often, I partnered with humanitarian and medical missions, specializing in documenting relief programs, expeditions, and archaeological projects in remote and usually austere environments.

My work focuses on people and the environments in which they live, migration, and borderlands, both existential and metaphysical. I have worked for the U.S. Department of State as an EFM in Mumbai, India, Monterrey, Mexico, and Guatemala City, Guatemala. These experiences have enriched my perspective and deepened my commitment to capturing the human condition through my lens.

My work has been shown in numerous exhibitions, featured on ABC News, and published by National Geographic Press, Field Photographer, National Public Radio, Human Nature, Black and White Magazine, Wired Online Magazine, Minority Rights International, and many other publications. Currently, I am working on projects concerning the sacred and secular geography of the Ganges River, the U.S./Mexico Border, and issues of migration, public health, and water.”

Nicole

“My name is Nicole Tobin. First and foremost, thank you for coming to today’s reception. I want to thank the National United Methodist Church for hosting our exhibition and AAFSW and Andrea Salzman for all their work in putting it together. I am truly honored to be included in this amazing exhibition of our Foreign Service family's talent, beauty, and insight.

Our journey as Foreign Service officers and family members shaped how we view the world, and our interpretations are shown throughout the exhibit. A little bit about myself: I am a Kansas native, growing up in the Midwest and enjoying the expansive skies. I chose to study Russian in high school, which eventually led me to the Foreign Service after picking up a law degree. I have served in Russia, Brazil, Ukraine, and Mexico. I took up painting in 2019, as my other creative hobby—sewing—resulted in an overfull closet. I incorporate my love of textiles, skies, monuments, and handicrafts into my pieces.

The pieces I have chosen to show here reflect my love of my country, my hopes and dreams for Ukraine, and an expanded view of justice through Aristotle’s cardinal virtues. Thank you again.

Quick disclaimer: none of my opinions should be taken as an official view of the United States.”

Randa

I was born and raised in Amman, Jordan. My father was from Jaffa, and my mother was from the Netherlands. I was influenced by my parents' cultural backgrounds and was blessed to grow up in Jordan, a country that remains close to my heart. I studied classical music at the Conservatory in Arnhem, the Netherlands.

When I returned home to Jordan in 1999, I had my first art exhibit at the Blue Fig Cafe in Amman.

I have taught piano lessons and music classes for twenty-five years and developed my passion for drawing and painting. Being the spouse of an American diplomat has allowed me, my husband, and our two boys to live in and experience unfamiliar places, inspiring much of my artwork.

I have exhibited my art in Cairo, Tunisia, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Today's event is significant because it allows me to present my art alongside fellow diplomatic family members, all of whom have unique experiences and inspirations.

Rasa

“Welcome, everyone, and thank you for joining us today for this exhibition opening. It is a pleasure to share my artwork and journey, where art and diplomacy have been woven together in unique and meaningful ways. Over the years, I have lived in various countries, including the United States, Russia, Vietnam, Israel, and Germany. Each chapter offered fresh perspectives and new connections through visual arts.

This exhibition, "Art and Diplomacy: Shared Perspectives," highlights how art can connect people and express connections beyond words. A pivotal moment in my artistic practice was discovering Vietnamese lacquer painting in 2013. This traditional art form captivated me with its intricate layering process, symbolizing our connections across cultures. As a Foreign Service spouse, I have collaborated closely with diverse communities, creating spaces where art becomes a channel for dialogue and discovery.

This exhibition invites us to reflect on how art can serve diplomacy, foster mutual understanding, and build bridges where differences might otherwise prevail. Thank you for being here today. I hope these works inspire you to see the possibilities of art as a powerful tool for connection and diplomacy in our global community.”

Valentyna

As a portrait photographer and visual storyteller, I specialize in family photography in Arlington, Virginia. I am a proud U.S. Foreign Service community member and a U.S. civil servant. I studied photography at Northern Virginia Community College, where I received the 2015 Endowed Alexandria Photography Scholarship, and at Instituto Europe di Design in Rome.

Through my camera lens, I have learned to appreciate the beauty of the world and the simple joys of life even more. I find inspiration in the emerald ocean sparkling in the sun, dark clouds carrying rain over the fields, the morning smell of coffee, the aroma of freshly baked bread in the afternoon, a good book and a blanket on a winter day, the sound of a piano melody flowing from another room, and a friendly conversation with someone I know or have just met.

In my photography, I strive to capture the beauty of light, the purity of feelings, and a sense of time and place behind the image. Through my husband's work, I am fortunate to travel to different places around the world and meet incredible people.

Happy Holidays from AAFSW!

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 03:48:27 GMT

Dear Members and Friends of AAFSW,

As we move forward into another wonderful year, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to all of you. Your support, dedication, and enthusiasm have made 2024 a remarkable year for our community.

To our new members and friends, welcome! We are thrilled to have you join us and look forward to sharing meaningful and joyful moments in 2025.

Life in the Foreign Service is a unique journey filled with challenges and incredible experiences. We are grateful for the resilience and strength of our members and their families, who navigate this extraordinary path with grace and determination. Your stories, contributions, and camaraderie enrich our community and inspire us all.

During this holiday season, we extend our heartfelt wishes to those in need around the world. May peace, comfort, and hope reach every corner of the globe.

Because of your support, AAFSW has been able to give back in meaningful ways. This year, we contributed to:

The George Washington University Hospital Women's Board, aiding their patients and caregivers, leading to an upcoming partnership focused on nutrition and wellness.
St. Jude's Hospital for children with cancer.
The FSN Emergency Relief Fund, the Department’s official charitable mechanism for disaster assistance to Locally Employed Staff. Since 1994, this Fund has served as an immediate humanitarian resource for local employees of the Department of State and all other USG agencies under the Chief of Mission authority.

We are also grateful for the successful events, inter-agency meetings, and collaboration over the year, including those with the ambassadors from Azerbaijan, Italy, Ukraine, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Slovakia and Sri Lanka, who spoke at our events and opened their homes to our community. Additionally, we would like to say a special thanks to Director General Bernicat and Ms. Ryan, Secretary Blinken's spouse, for their unwavering support.

Wishing you holidays filled with warmth, joy, and cherished memories. As we embark on a new year, let us embrace lasting friendships, personal growth, and unforgettable moments. Cheers to all the wonderful experiences that lie ahead.

Warmest wishes,

Celine Ford

President

AAFSW

Honoring Community Members at AAFSW’s Annual Awards Ceremony

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:25:54 GMT

Members and supporters of the Foreign Service filled the prestigious Benjamin Franklin Room for the AAFSW volunteer awards program on Nov. 13. The annual ceremony once again highlighted the spirit of family member volunteerism that is so vibrant among our mission communities abroad. We were honored to recognize the volunteer work of seven outstanding individuals who exemplify that spirit.

The ceremony recognized winners of the Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA), The Eleanor Dodson Tragen Award, the Lesley Dorman Award, and the Champions of Career Enhancement for EFMs (CCE-EFM) Award. We were privileged to have White House Cabinet Secretary Evan Ryan and Director General Marcia Bernicat speak and present the awards.

SOSA is awarded to outstanding volunteer service performed overseas. The SOSA winners for 2024 are Andrew Richley (EUR), Connie Pearson (NEA), Kristen Factor (SCA) and Garrett Fraino (WHA).

Andrew Richley established the Urbana Basta Podgorica Food Forest and served as its manager. 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.

Following the Oct. 7, 2023 terrorist attacks, Connie Pearson worked to organize lunches and dinners for overworked embassy staff as well as IDF soldiers and displaced Gazan families. Connie’s extraordinary service also included providing traumatized students with school supplies, and assisting a local orphanage to purchase and renovate new facilities.

Kristen 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 by building the program from scratch.

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 his work with the Mais Caminhos organization, he strengthened and restructured the organization while also providing extensive tutoring and coaching to the students.

More details of the winners’ extraordinary volunteer efforts are highlighted on the AAFSW website here.

SOSA honorable mentions for 2024 were awarded to Valerie Wendell and Joel McDonnell (AF), Thanh Kim (EAP), Sarah Berdugo (EUR), Jessica Baetjer (NEA), Stefanie Hendricks (SCA), and Susannah Holmes (WHA).

Following the presentation of the SOSA awards, DACOR president Angela Dickey presented the Eleanor Dodson Tragen Award. The Tragen Award is funded by an annual gift from Mr. Tragen and is administered by DACOR. It recognizes a member of the Foreign Service community who has effectively advocated for and enhanced the global rights and benefits of the Foreign Service family. This year’s recipient was Megan Kuhn. Megan’s distinctive contributions have markedly enriched the professional environment for eligible family members (EFMs) by launching the Parallel Professionals networking group in November 2020 and overseeing its transition to an official Employee Organization in 2023.

Past AAFSW president Patricia Linderman presented the Champions of Career Enhancement for EFMs Award. This award honors someone who has made exceptional efforts to promote employment and career development for Foreign Service family members. This year’s recipient was Joanna Parys. During her tenure as HR EPAP for Embassy Kinshasa, Joanna created a positive and welcoming atmosphere during a year of political turmoil, war, and disease outbreaks. Joanna’s creativity, advocacy, and dedication allowed the Mission to focus on strategic diplomatic efforts, knowing the Embassy community was cohesively supported by EFMs whose skills suited their roles.

Lara Center, another prior AAFSW president, awarded the Lesley Dorman Award to Jenny Kocher. The Lesley Dorman Award recognizes an AAFSW member who has performed outstanding service in all aspects of the organization. Since 2019, Jenny has demonstrated exceptional dedication and initiative in her efforts, making a significant impact on the lives of many EFMs in the Foreign Service community. Currently, Jenny continues to innovate and connect EFMs through her Virtual Connections monthly program, an online platform that is inclusive of all EFMs, regardless of their location.

These annual awards provide an opportunity for us to pause from the demanding work of diplomacy to recognize how EFM efforts contribute to our collective diplomatic efforts and remind us of the common humanity that binds embassy communities, our government, and our world.

You can see a gallery of photos from this event here.

Updates from the AAFSW-NDU Collaboration

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 17:24:49 GMT

Thanksgiving Dinner

AAFSW continued its cultural sponsorship program with the National Defense University this last month by hosting several International Fellows and their families in their homes for Thanksgiving dinner.

Fellows and their families from Bosnia-Herzegovina, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Maldives were treated to delicious roast turkeys and traditional side dishes including stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce and pies. One host will be a certified chef soon so their guests received an extra special treat!

The kids enjoyed doing Thanksgiving crafts, coloring turkey placemats and posing with silly photo booth props.

Meanwhile, the adults enjoyed a warm welcome into their sponsor's families homes. They admired mementos from career achievements and overseas postings, played pool, and checked out one host's shiny red corvette!

The IFs had done homework on the history of Thanksgiving but still had questions about pumpkin pies, Pilgrims, and another Thanksgiving staple, American football!

National Defense University Hall of Fame

American sponsors were invited to attend a special ceremony last month celebrating NDU alumni who have achieved the highest ranks in their nation's armed forces and government. International honorees include Chiefs of Staff, Commanders, Ambassadors, and even a President and are displayed on campus in Marshall Hall.

Donate to AAFSW for Giving Tuesday

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 18:55:46 GMT

Dear AAFSW Community,

We hope you had a wonderful holiday with your loved ones. We are grateful for your continued support and dedication as we celebrate Giving Tuesday. Your contributions help us support initiatives for the FS community, such as scholarships, awards, and more. Your generosity enables us to impact our foreign service community meaningfully.

Please consider donating to AAFSW on Giving Tuesday to strengthen our mission and support our initiatives. Thank you for being an essential part of the AAFSW family.

You may donate to us here: https://www.aafsw.org/Donate

AAFSW is a membership-based and accredited 501(c)(3) non profit association.

Warm regards,

Celine

Celine Ford, President

The Associates of the American Foreign Service (AAFSW)

Happy Thanksgiving from AAFSW

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 26 Nov 2024 16:39:31 GMT

As we gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, the AAFSW colleagues and team want to extend our deepest gratitude. Your dedication and commitment to our foreign affairs community significantly strengthen the bonds among foreign service families.

Wishing you a joyous and fulfilling Thanksgiving Holiday!

Celine

2024 SOSA and Awards Ceremony

AAFSW Webmaster — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 22:06:00 GMT

AAFSW's 2024 Awards Ceremony for the Secretary of State Awards for Outstanding Volunteerism Aboard (SOSA), Champions of Career Enhancement for Eligible Family Members Award (CCE-EFM), and Lesley Dorman Award took place on Nov. 13, 2024 at the State Department.

You can see a photo gallery from this event by clicking here . Learn more about the 2024 winners here.

You may watch a video of the ceremony on our youtube channel by clicking here .

AAFSW Migration to the Wild Apricot AMS Platform

AAFSW Webmaster — Sun, 17 Nov 2024 20:01:34 GMT

In August 2024, AAFSW migrated to a new association management system (AMS). Based upon the leading Wild Apricot platform, this new system enhances our ability to serve our members while providing the best security. From our website, you may access and update the details of your AAFSW membership.

We ask that you connect, update your profile, and review your membership status at www.aafsw.org. For security reasons, your first access requires that you reset your password by the “Forgot Password” link on the Login page or by selecting the profile icon located in the upper-right corner of our website .

This new platform provides many new features and important changes for our members:

Family Memberships. The standard Associate membership (formerly Regular membership) is now a bundle that allows you to share your membership with your spouse, allowing each separate access to association resources and events. Navigate to your profile to manage your membership accounts.
Directory. Each member may customize their contact information and choose how they appear in the members-only directory. You may contact other members through the directory but we never share your email or phone number. Find other members with similar interests or living in the same country!
Interest Groups. Each member may select to participate in various interest groups and committees. Navigate to your profile to manage your interests and receive targeted communications.
Events. Each member may browse and register for events.
Automatic Renewals. All memberships renew automatically for one year on the renewal date. You may accept automatic renewal payment or opt out to pay manually. In every case, you will receive reminders as your membership nears expiration.
Online Payment. You may pay online with any credit or debit card. Your payment details are safely protected.
Mobile Access. The new site is optimized for mobile devices. You can check your membership details, browse the directory, and register for event tickets with the Wild Apricot mobile app.

Get started! Connect today to verify your information, add your spouse, express your interests, and volunteer. Contact us with any questions or suggestions.

Kind regards,

AAFSW AMS Committee

AAFSW’s Art and Diplomacy Series Opening

AAFSW Webmaster — Sat, 16 Nov 2024 19:19:52 GMT

Dear members and friends of AAFSW,

I am delighted to announce the opening of AAFSW’s Art and Diplomacy Series on November 10, 2024, under the patronage of The Arts Council of the National Methodist Church in Washington, DC. This initiative is designed to celebrate and promote the talents and inspirations within our foreign service community.

The opening event was a resounding success, showcasing the talents and inspiration of the artists among the foreign service community for a better world, accompanied by delightful musicians, students, and piano maestros.

The artists will have an annual fall exhibition in the stunning great hall of the church, located at the heart of the DMV area. These exhibitions are dedicated to our foreign affairs artists, providing them with a platform to share their work and perspectives on the enriching power of art and the mutual understanding of our global village and culture.

We believe that art has a unifying effect, bringing people together and fostering a sense of community. The exhibition will last until January, with more events to come. Please come and meet the artists at our next event, which will be announced soon.

Best regards,

Celine President, AAFSW

Art & BookFair 2024

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 03:55:16 GMT

The 2024 Art & BookFair (ABF) was a fabulous success!

Director General Marcia Bernicat graciously opened the Fair then walked around ABF chatting with volunteers and shoppers. She also made a purchase before dashing off to her next appointment. You can read her remarks here.

There was a steady flow of clients all during ABF. Every area did well – Art Corner, Jewelry, Collectors Corner, Stamps, and of course, Books! Items were replenished throughout the event. Did you donate this year? Your items are now in a loving home where they are appreciated. Thank you for helping AAFSW and making someone happy. Many of the purchased items are slated to be given as wonderful gifts this holiday season.

Where did all the extra books and items go after ABF? Some went to neighborhood organizations, church programs, and a student-led group for George Washington University providing books to children in need. The rest we sold to a secondhand book dealer. That means we must start all over again. So now is the time to check out your books, treasures from your overseas assignments, jewelry you no longer wear, and other items (no framed art at this point) to consider donating to AAFSW.

It takes all year for us to receive, prepare, and box items for the next ABF. This all happens in Books & Global Treasures (BGT) and the Art Corner workshop. BGT is open and ready for this new season – M-Th 11:30 – 2:30 in Foggy Bottom.

Do you have some time to give? We are always looking for new volunteers. Many jobs – pricing, boxing, shelving, cashiering, etc. are done in BGT. Other jobs can be done online. Your ideas are also welcome. Interested? Email: bookroom@aafsw.org or leave a message at 202-223-5796 (BookStore).

If you are overseas, think about items that others might like to have from that country. Bring them back and donate to AAFSW. We are a 501(c)(3) charity and can give you an IRS compliant receipt.

We need YOU to participate.

Need to get away for a few minutes from the pressures of work? Come down to BGT to browse, sit and read a book, work on the jigsaw puzzle, and just give your brain a refresh. We look forward to seeing you.

Anne Kauzlarich, ABF Chair

AAFSW Attends Interagency Round Table Partners Meeting

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 12 Nov 2024 18:05:37 GMT

On October 30, 2024, Celine Ford, President, and Alane Relk, Office Manager of the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW), attended the Interagency Round Table (IART) partners meeting at the U.S. Department of State in the Harry S. Truman Building (HST), Loy Henderson Auditorium. The IART is comprised of representatives from United States federal agencies and invited affiliated organizations who share an interest in improving the quality of life for employees and families living and working overseas.

The Roundtable provides a forum to share ideas and resources, identify and propose solutions to common challenges, and capitalize on the strengths of each member group through networking. The meeting offered our interagency partners valuable information and resources, as well as practical guidance to share with community members under Chief of Mission authority.

Ramona Sandoval, The Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO) thanked all participants for their involvement in the recent Interagency Round Table (IART) meeting – Sharing Ideas and Resources – Fall Updates from Interagency Partners. Ms. Sandoval extended a special thank you to DAS Lucia Piazza for her welcome remarks, and the speakers, Jennifer Monna, Director of Medical Clearances, the colleagues from the Foreign Service Institute (FSI), Joe Domask, Sarah Genton, and Michelle Ross, and GCLO Management and Program Analyst Jason Pantaleo.

AAFSW is pleased to share the following resources with our community:

For further information about Expeditious Naturalization, please refer to the following website: Guidelines for Expeditious Naturalization - United States Department of State (https://www.state.gov/global-community-liaison-office/naturalization-of-foreign-born-spouses/guidelines-for-expeditious-naturalization/).

For digital versions of GCLO Outreach cards, please refer to this website: GCLO Outreach Resources - United States Department of State (https://www.state.gov/global-community-liaison-office/outreach-resources/).

For regular updates about GCLO, please sign up to GCLO Weekly (https://bit.ly/GCLOweekly) and you may also be interested in following us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/GlobalCommunityLiaisonOffice/).

All the best,

Celine

Director General Bernicat's Remarks Opening Art & BookFair 2024

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 21:40:12 GMT

I am pleased to share Director General of the Foreign Service and Director of Global Talent, Ambassador Bernicat’s remarks with our members, expressing heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers and attendees at the opening of the 2024 Art and BookFair on October 11, 2024. We were thrilled to see such a successful and well-attended event.

AAFSW’s Art and BookFair volunteers are all grateful for Ambassador Bernicat's staunch support and dedication to this event. Her unwavering commitment has been instrumental in making this fair a remarkable success.

Thank you for having taken the time to come and support the 2024 Art and BookFair!

Celine Ford, AAFSW President

Read on for Director Bernicat's remarks:

Thank you for inviting me to speak to you today! It is a highlight of my week to stand before such a dedicated group of individuals.

Before we go any further, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the remarkable group of volunteers supporting the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide – affectionately known as the AAFSW. The Art & BookFair we see today is not just a singular event. This is simply another example of countless hours of hard work, commitment, and a strong belief in the important work that this amazing group of volunteers does.

And a very special thank you to Deborah Schneider, Steven Polson, and Tina Parisi for leading on this effort.

To all of you who contribute your time – whether it is at the BookFair, accepting donations, sorting, counting, organizing, logistics, helping patrons, and beyond – thank you, thank you, thank you. Your efforts do not go unnoticed.

It is also essential to recognize the important work that AAFSW does for the State Department – for the people of the State Department – for you and me. Since 1960, this group of volunteers has been steadfast in their dedication to supporting U.S. Foreign Affairs, Civil Service employees, and their families.

We are all likely familiar that the landscape of the foreign service is unique, filled with countless rewards, but also, at times, challenges. Your dedication and volunteerism plays a role in assisting many members through the good times, and also in navigating the more difficult times and helps to shape our experiences as individuals, and as a community.

This brings me to an equally important aspect of our community – our families. They are the backbone of the Foreign Service, providing the support and stability that allow us to carry out our duties effectively.

Families face unique hurdles, adjusting to new places and new faces, relocations, and dealing with the emotional aspects of being away from home.

AAFSW understands these challenges and works to support families through a variety of programs and initiatives throughout the whole year.

For those in the audience who might not yet be completely aware, I’mI am going to tell you about a few of the things they do – but I urge you to go to their website and talk to their members to learn the breadth of what they do.

AAFSW’s advocacy was instrumental in the creation of the Family Liaison Office which is now the Global Community Liaison Office. Now, as Director General of the Foreign Service and Director of Global Talent Management at the State Department – GCLO is near and dear to my heart. But, as a career member of the foreign service, they have played a role in every single post I have ever had the honor of serving in my over 40 years of diplomatic service. GCLO ensures that we, as a community, feel connected and valued.

In addition, AAFSW also started a Family Crisis Fund. And anytime we are dealing with delicate matters such as family separation and divorce, there are challenges.

The crisis fund provides financial support to foreign affairs spouses during these difficult times by providing a safety net that helps families focus on recovery during challenging transitions. Knowing that there is support makes a huge impact in decision making and can make all the difference in the world to those who need it.

In 2016, FSHub was created and launched as a searchable gateway to Foreign Service resources. This innovative tool connects employees and families with critical information with easy access. We live in a world where information comes at us a million miles a minute and can often be overwhelming. Knowing there is a dedicated platform like the FSHub allows informative decision making, which can, in turn, assist in transitions.

AAFSW, in their commitment to youth, provides merit scholarships for foreign affairs youth AND contributes to AFSA’s financial aid awards for college education. Investing in the next generation is not just important – it is essential. And I know that by enabling our youth to pursue their dreams and aspirations, some may very well walk right back through the doors of the Harry S. Truman building and embark in their own careers as foreign or civil servants.

I have touched on a variety of topics and endeavors of AAFSW – and with each example, it is clear that AAFSW is dedicated in serving the needs of Foreign Service and Civil Service employees, spouses, partners, and retired members. This is a community.

I’llI end where I began: Thank you all for being here, for your commitment to our community, to AAFSW for a wonderful event, and to you for your continued support of AAFSW.

And now, welcome everyone to the 64^th annual Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide Art & BookFair!

- Ambassador Bernicat, Director General of the Foreign Service and Director of Global Talent, AAFSW Art & Bookfair, Friday, October 11, 2024, National Museum of American Diplomacy.

AAFSW Launches Art and Diplomacy Series

AAFSW Webmaster — Sun, 03 Nov 2024 17:59:28 GMT

Dear members and friends of AAFSW,

I am delighted to announce the launch of AAFSW’s Art and Diplomacy Series, an initiative designed to celebrate and promote the talents and inspirations of our foreign service spouses and partners. This series aims to support the foreign affairs community through the transformative impact of art.

A special thank you to Karen Dennis, a foreign service (retired) spouse, and and The Arts Council of the National Methodist Church in Washington, DC. Thanks to their support, the artists will have an annual fall exhibition in the stunning Great Hall of the church, located at the heart of the DMV area. These exhibitions are dedicated to our foreign affairs artists, providing them with a platform to share their work and perspectives on the enriching power of art and the mutual understanding of our global village and culture. Additional exhibits may be held throughout the year.
We believe that art has a unifying effect, bringing people together and fostering a sense of community. We invite you to join us for the inaugural opening of AAFSW’s Art and Diplomacy Series on November 10, 2024.
Best,

Celine

President, AAFSW

ASEAN and Friends Bazaar

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:24:59 GMT

Join the Asian American Chamber of Commerce and the ASEAN Spouses' Circle on November 16 from 12 p.m.-5 p.m. at the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City for a bazaar.

Hurricane Relief Donation Information

AAFSW Webmaster — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 21:36:32 GMT

Dear Members,

In light of the devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW) extend our heartfelt concern and pledge to support all those affected. We recognize that many members and retirees of the foreign affairs community have relocated to the Carolinas and Florida, and we are committed to assisting during these challenging times.

Donation Opportunities:

American Red Cross

Donate to Hurricanes Milton and Helene Relief | American Red Cross

Charity Navigator curated a list of highly-rated organizations providing relief and recovery to those impacted by Hurricane Milton.

Hurricane Milton | Charity Navigator

Hurricane Helene | Charity Navigator

Catholic Charities USA launched a relief fund for those impacted by Hurricane Milton. You can donate on their donation page.

Working to Reduce Poverty in America - Catholic Charities USA

Volunteering Opportunities:

All Hands and Hearts staged teams in Georgia and are prepared to respond to Milton's impact. You can apply to volunteer here.

All Hands and Hearts | Volunteer-Powered Disaster Relief

The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) website allows you to find trusted organizations that need volunteers.

Homepage | VOAD (nvoad.org)

Storm Support Numbers:
- American Red Cross: 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767)
- Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990
- Shelters, Food Assistance, Welfare Checks: 1-888-892-1162 or 211
- Federal Employees’ Emergency Leave Transfer Program
Disaster Assistance:
- FEMA: Get Assistance After a Disaster
- FEMA Housing Assistance
Ways to Help / Hurricane Assistance / Carolinas
- Monetary Assistance:
- - NC Disaster Relief Fund, 20312 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-0312
  - NC Disaster Relief Fund, c/o United Way of NC, 1130 Kildaire Farm Road, Suite 100, Cary, NC 27511
  - Food Banks of the Carolinas
- Other Ways to Donate or Volunteer:
- - Volunteer NC Disaster Volunteer Opportunities
  - Feeding Assistance
  - Donate to a VOAD
  - NC 2-1-1 Volunteer List

We encourage our members to support these efforts and extend a helping hand to those in need. Your contributions, whether through donations or volunteer work, can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by these unfortunate circumstances.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our community.

Warm regards,

Celine Ford

The Board of Directors and Our Team.

AAFSW Sponsors NDU International Fellows for the First Time

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 15:50:18 GMT

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.

2024 SOSA Honorees

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 01:19:49 GMT

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)

Letter from the President: Honoring Our American Foreign Affairs Community

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 23:42:10 GMT

As summer unfolds, AAFSW members and colleagues are at the forefront of honoring the American foreign affairs community.

With the steadfast support of all regional bureaus and the Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO), Moises Mendoza and Jose Dorce are enthusiastically preparing for the distinguished Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA). Their dedication and tireless efforts are instrumental in organizing the November 13, 2024, SOSA ceremony. The ceremony honors the SOSA winners for their work, which involves addressing challenges such as security, economic conditions, and technological transformation, prioritizing projects that help underserved populations, and the Champions of Career Enhancement for Eligible Family Members Award (CCE-EFM), the Leslie Dorman Award and the Eleanor Dodson Tragen Award winners.

Moises and Jose have demonstrated exceptional commitment to our community by taking charge of the SOSA ceremony. Their diligent efforts are recognizing notable awardees whose volunteer work this year has strengthened USG’s commitment to green diplomacy and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) compliance. This highlights the dedication and impact of our community members in promoting sustainability and inclusivity globally.

Our commitment extends to the National Defense University (NDU) Sponsor Program, a program of significant impact. Through their dedicated work, Melanie McFeeters and Dorothea Cypher-Erickson help AAFSW members welcome families at NDU, fostering a sense of community and support. This program plays a vital role in helping these families navigate their new environments and build lasting connections.

As we look ahead, we are excited to prepare for the upcoming Art and Bookfair. This event showcases our members’ talents and creativity and serves as a cultural exchange and enrichment platform. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Anne Kauzlarich, Brian Newman, and all the volunteers for their dedicated efforts in meeting the goal of AAFSW’s main fundraising effort.

In addition, AAFSW celebrated our FS youth members’ remarkable achievements and dedication to excellence. On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, the Foreign Service Youth Foundation (FSYF) hosted a memorable ceremony at the Department of State’s George C. Marshall Center. Director General Marcia Bernicat and FSYF Director John Naland were present to honor the awardees. The event was a celebration of the winners of several prestigious awards, including FSYF Academic Merit Award recipients, FSYF Community Service Award recipients, FSYF Art Contest winners, FSYF Essay Contest winners, OBC KidVid Contest winners, AAFSW Merit Scholarship recipients, and AFSA Scholarship recipients, inspiring us all with their dedication and excellence.

Adah Laureano Ellenport, Scholarship Chair, led the selection process along with the esteemed judges who generously contributed their time and expertise to this important event: Melanie McFeeters, Joanna Athanasopoulos Owen, Ann La Porta, Victoria Olsa, and Jenny Kocher. The Scholarship committee’s commitment and support have been instrumental in recognizing and honoring the outstanding accomplishments of AAFSW awardees:

Isabelle Ann Boyd: A Remarkable Journey of Resilience and Determination. Born in Ukraine, Isabelle’s high school years in Kyiv were disrupted by the threat of a Russian invasion, leading her family to evacuate to the U.S. Despite the upheaval, she continued her education through Kyiv International School. Her achievements include making the Dean’s List and receiving AP Scholar awards. Isabelle’s involvement in the Team Tennis League and the “Bookworms” reading service club highlights her commitment to community and mentorship. Isabelle’s unique journey of resilience and determination, navigating through geopolitical challenges, is truly inspiring.

Lexy Jane Boudreau: A Journey Across Equations, Cultures, and Disciplines. Lexy’s life in the Foreign Service has taken her to countries like Bermuda, Ukraine, and South Korea, shaping her into a global citizen. She is pursuing a dual degree in Industrial Engineering and Science, Technology, and Society at North Carolina State University. As part of the Grand Challenge Scholars Program, Lexy aims to improve urban infrastructure and connect community needs with engineering outcomes. Her global perspective and diplomatic background make her a valuable advocate for positive change. Lexy’s achievements not only reflect her personal growth but also bring hope for a better future.

Katherine Nicodemus: A Multicultural Journey Katherine, a third-year student at George Mason University, Katherine has lived in Germany, Austria, Ghana, and West Africa, embodying a rich tapestry of cultures. She aspires to become a social worker and currently works as an ABA therapist. Katherine is passionate about volunteering and enjoys singing and volleyball. Her scholarship empowers her to advance her education and contribute to sustainable solutions within communities, reflecting the diversity and inclusivity of our AAFSW community.

Harrison Gordon: Journey in Anthropology and Diplomacy Harrison, a student at Fort Lewis College, is majoring in Anthropology. His passion for history and human experiences drives his academic journey. An Eagle Scout, Harrison enjoys swimming, hiking, and working with clay. His anthropology studies provide diplomats with valuable insights, contributing to policymaking and conflict resolution.

Lillian Moo: On a Mission to Combat Climate Change. Lillian’s experiences in the Foreign Service, including being expelled from Venezuela and moving to Hungary, have shaped her resilience. As a civil engineering student at Oregon State University, she researches wildfire effects on indoor air quality and volunteers with Engineers Without Borders. Lillian’s unwavering dedication to combating climate change, as evidenced by her research and volunteer work, is commendable, and her diverse upbringing uniquely positions her to make a difference.

Elena Elizabeth Diaz: A Journey of Family Bonds and Academic Excellence. Elena’s life took an exciting turn when her family relocated to Riga, Latvia. This move allowed her to immerse herself in a new culture. Her journey reflects a strong bond with her family and a commitment to academic excellence.

Congratulations to all the award recipients, and we thank everyone who joined in celebrating our youth’s outstanding accomplishments. Celebrating their remarkable achievements and dedication to excellence, we continue to support and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Finally, your participation is crucial to the upcoming Board election. The biographies of our five candidates, along with those of our other candidates and board members, are available for review on our website, ensuring an informed voting process. We also have an open opportunity for the Board Secretary position and warmly invite members to volunteer for this vital role. Read the bios.

Together, we are making a difference and honoring the contributions of our American foreign affairs community.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement with AAFSW.

Gratefully,

Celine

July – August 2024.

Successful Start to AAFSW-NDU Collaboration

AAFSW Webmaster — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 04:53:32 GMT

The new collaboration between AAFSW and the National Defense University (NDU) is off to a great start. An incoming class of 139 of International Fellows and their families have been arriving since late June and into July.

Many have already been matched with a Community Sponsor through the liaison with AAFSW including two families from Malaysia; Brig. Gen. (Dato) and his spouse and a Lt. Col. with the Royal Malaysian Air Force who is here with his wife and four children. Members are also sponsoring an International Fellow and his wife from Egypt, and Fellows from Indonesia and the Maldives.

The National Defense University manages the logistics for getting the arrivals settled. Many are located in apartments in Arlington near the Pentagon and have easy access to the stores in the area.

Sponsors reach out to answer questions, provide information on the area, and suggest cultural activities. In July, AAFSW sponsors invited new International Fellows and their families to Fourth of July barbecues, patriotic concerts at the Kennedy Center, Nationals baseball games, and outdoor movies at the Navy Memorial.

The National Defense University will host a mixer for all of the International Fellows, Community Sponsors, and their families at the end of the month.

For more information on how to become a Community Sponsor, please contact Melanie McFeeters at melaniemcfeeters@aafsw.org or Dorothea Erickson at dorothea.erickson@aafsw.org.

AAFSW Shares a Video of the June 2024 Ambassador Speakers Series Program

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 04:55:11 GMT

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.

Sri Lanka’s Cultural Splendor Shines at Washington D.C. Cultural Event

AAFSW Webmaster — Tue, 11 Jun 2024 05:03:41 GMT

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

2023 Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO) “Divorce and the Foreign Service Rights and Responsibilities” Guidelines

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 05:01:34 GMT

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)

Centennial Commemoration of Foreign Affairs Day

AAFSW Webmaster — Sat, 04 May 2024 04:51:53 GMT

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

Volunteer with Books & Global Treasures

AAFSW Webmaster — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 05:05:53 GMT

Volunteer Your Time and Energy!

Volunteers are the backbone of Books & Global Treasures shop and the annual Art & BookFair, making them both possible.

During the year, our team enjoys working together in the Books & Global Treasures shop while simultaneously preparing for the annual Art and BookFair. Some of the year-round tasks are collecting, sorting, pricing and organizing the stream of donations. Your personal cultural experience and insights can be invaluable.

Can’t come into the shop regularly? Some items may be researched on the web from anywhere.

Volunteers also help with publicity (posters, signs,) and picking up donations. There are many other tasks that volunteers perform during the actual Art & BookFair. These include assisting customers, cashiering, keeping shelves tidy, replenishing the selections, setting up and breaking down the venue and supporting the Stamp Corner, Art Corner and Volunteer breakroom.

Join our team working on and off site. Hours flexible.

Don’t wait to sign-up to volunteer. We need 30-40 volunteers throughout the year, increasing to more than 100 during Art & BookFair. Contact Anne Kauzlarich for more information: Anne.kauzlarich@aafsw.org.

More ways you can help: Donate books, foreign stamps, jewelry and cultural wares. We can arrange a pick-up if needed. Books can also be dropped off in the blue book collection bins at various locations in main State, SA1 (Columbia Plaza) and SA17 (19 th St. NW).

Contact: Brian Neumann, 202-223-5796 or bookstore@aafsw.org.

Spring Greetings from AAFSW!

AAFSW Webmaster — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 05:07:42 GMT

Dear AAFSW Members and Friends,

As the days lengthen and blossoms emerge, we extend warm Spring greetings to you all. This season symbolizes renewal, growth, and hope—a time to embrace fresh opportunities and connect with our community.

I am thrilled to announce a significant new partnership with the esteemed National Defense University (NDU). This collaboration is not just a mere association but a testament to the importance and value we place on fostering meaningful connections and support within our community.

NDU’s International Student Management Office (ISMO) manages a sponsor program to support and assist International Fellows (IFs) studying at NDU. These officers attend various NDU colleges, including the National War College (NWC), the Eisenhower School (ES), the College of International Security Affairs (CISA), or the College of Information and Cyberspace (CIC) in Washington, D.C., as well as the Joint Forces Staff College (JFSC) in Norfolk, Virginia. The program aims to establish meaningful relationships between sponsors and IFs, offering unique international interactions. Sponsors provide valuable community and support as IFs transition to a new country and spend a year at NDU. The program has proven beneficial, allowing Fellows and their families to experience American culture and fostering lasting relationships.

On April 4, 2024, I met with Ambassador Young’s NDU Sponsor Program team on the NDU campus to explore avenues for collaboration. Melanie Mcfeeters, our new Evacuation Chair, will help coordinate this partnership for AAFSW. We are looking for people who have lived in America and can give the students an idea of daily life here. The sponsor program involves making meaningful connections and participating in NDU-sponsored festivals and events. There is an International Fellow Luncheon in early Spring, to which everyone at NDU, their families, and sponsors are invited. Stay tuned for further developments and exciting opportunities through this program. Your engagement and participation are vital to its success!

Director General Ambassador Bernicat invited AASFW to her office in May to learn more about our organization. During this discussion, we plan to address the following topics: Gratitude for 24 STATE 26038 Separation and Divorce: Responsibilities and Resources, released on March 13, 2024. Including SOSA Awards in OPFs and the Secretary of State Award for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA) in eligible recipients’ Official Personnel Files (OPFs). EFM Museum Exhibit at National Museum of American Diplomacy (NMAD): including an exhibit at the National Museum of American Diplomacy (NMAD) that highlights the significant contributions of EFM/SOSA awardees. Enhanced Training Access for EFMs/MOH: Improved communication channels to empower more spouses/partners to access valuable training opportunities.

We look forward to honoring exceptional students as applications for AAFSW’s Merit Scholarships and Twice Exceptional Merit Scholarship are now open. Thank you to John K. Naland for inviting AAFSW to participate in the Foreign Service Youth Foundation’s Youth Awards Ceremony, which will be on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, in the Marshall Center. Please learn more at AAFSW’s Annual Youth Merit Scholarships here.

We look forward to the upcoming Foreign Affairs Day, May 3, 2024, a day of celebration and recognition for our community’s achievements!

Thank you for being so supportive, as always,
Celine

In Memory of Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Swope

AAFSW Webmaster — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 05:09:44 GMT

We extend our condolences to Betty’s family, friends, and colleagues. We are sad to share her passing on March 9, 2024.

Betty Swope dedicated her Foreign Service career to helping others. Her compassion and commitment left a lasting impact on those she served. Even after retirement, Betty remained a beacon of kindness and mentorship. Many knew her as a dear friend and a tireless advocate for our community.

Notably, Betty played an integral role in managing the jewelry section of our annual Art & Book Fair. Her passion and dedication shone through; her legacy will forever inspire us.

To Betty’s family and friends, we offer our deepest sympathies during this difficult time.

Below, we have copied her obituary, including the details about the viewing and the funeral service, published by The Washington Post. It can also be accessed here.

With deepest sympathy,

AAFSW

Mary Elizabeth Swope (1944-2024)

By The Washington Post – March 13, 2024

Mary Elizabeth (Betty) Swope, age 79, passed away on March 9, 2024, of congestive lung failure.

Betty was born on March 11, 1944, at Columbia Hospital in Washington, DC, and grew up in Arlington and Herndon, Virginia. She graduated from Mary Baldwin College with a BA and received an MPA from the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. She is also a graduate of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces at Fort McNair and the U.S. Department of State Senior Seminar.

Always known as a woman ahead of her time, Betty joined the U.S. Foreign Service in 1967, looking for a career that allowed her to travel and serve her country. She remained in the Foreign Service for her entire career, serving with dedication and distinction in multiple countries, including Portugal, Spain, Mexico, France, and Egypt. She was twice appointed Consul General (Cairo and Guadalajara). Also, she held important posts in Washington, DC, as Director of Consular Training at the Foreign Service Institute, U.S. Mexico Border Coordinator, Deputy Director of Management Operations, and in the Consular Affairs Division of the Office of the State Department’s Legal Advisor, working with state and local law enforcement on U.S. treaty obligations when foreign nationals are arrested in the U.S. She was especially committed to consular work and assisting Americans as they worked and traveled overseas. Over the years, Betty received several State Department awards and was an active member of Executive Women at State and the Mentor Program.

Betty believed one of her most important roles was assisting the next generation of State Department staff in their careers. She will long be remembered as a friend and mentor to innumerable junior personnel and individuals interested in diplomatic careers. In retirement, she continued to mentor many. She was a member of Diplomatic and Consular Officers Retired (DACOR) and the Associates of the American Foreign Service (AAFSW), for whom she managed the jewelry section of its Annual Book Fair.

Betty is survived by her husband of 43 years, Patrick F Kennedy, also a retired member of the Foreign Service, whom she married on January 31, 1981, in the Bethlehem Chapel at the Washington National Cathedral. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her brother, John W. Swope. She was predeceased by her parents, Ralph R. Swope and Elizabeth Anderson Swope, and one brother, Ralph R. Swope, Jr.

Celebrating Women’s Leadership: A Tribute to H.E. Mariangela Zappia, Evan Ryan, and Adrienne Arsht

Sun, 10 Mar 2024 23:59:02 GMT

Celine Ford, President, AAFSW, March 10, 2024

The fifteenth annual Women’s History Month panel discussion, organized by Sheila Switzer, Program Chair of the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW), was a resounding success. Held on March 6th in the Burns Auditorium at the George Marshall Center of the State Department, Washington, D.C., this gathering illuminated the remarkable achievements of women leaders.

Honoring Distinguished Women

H.E. Mariangela Zappia, Italian Ambassador to the United States, shared her journey as the first woman to hold the position of Italian Ambassador to the United States. H.E. Mariangela Zappia has shattered glass ceilings and exemplified excellence. Her illustrious career spans four decades and includes significant diplomacy and international relations contributions. She genuinely shared the highlights from her journey as Permanent Representative of Italy to the UN in New York (2018-2021). Zappia played a pivotal role in advancing global cooperation and addressing critical issues on the international stage. As Diplomatic Advisor to the Prime Minister of Italy and G7-G20 Sherpa (2016-2018), her strategic insights and leadership contributed to shaping policies that impact millions of lives. As Champion of Women’s Causes, Zappia’s unwavering commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment has left an indelible mark. She has advocated for women’s rights, both within Italy and globally.

White House Cabinet Secretary Evan Ryan has wielded her influence with grace and determination. Evan highlighted her journey, a reflection about resilience and dedication. Evan’s role involves managing critical administrative functions. Her ability to navigate complex political landscapes is commendable. Balancing family and leadership, Evan, the spouse of Secretary Blinken, openness about her journey as a woman with family responsibilities resonated with so many. She has demonstrated that it is possible to excel in leadership while maintaining a solid family foundation.

Adrienne Arsht, Chair of the Adrienne Arsht Center Foundation, shared how she made an indelible impact across business, philanthropy, and the arts. As the founding chair of the Adrienne Arsht Center Foundation, she has transformed organizations and communities, championing the arts and cultural enrichment. Adrienne’s unwavering commitment to human rights and the rule of law is evident through her work at Human Rights First. She contributed thirty million to Miami’s Performing Arts Center, which led to its renaming as “The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County.” Her impact on cultural institutions is immeasurable.

Nicole Elkon, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Professional and Cultural Exchanges within the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), moderated this discussion and ensured its success. Nicole oversees diverse exchange programs, bridging borders and fostering understanding between U.S. and international participants. As a human rights advocate, Nicole’s commitment to justice and equality resonates globally.

As AASFW’s guests and participants recognized the pivotal role that women have played throughout history, they also honored the quiet strength of those who labor selflessly behind the scenes, the countless silent heroines who work tirelessly in the shadows, rise before dawn, and walk for hours to fetch water to ensure that their little ones wake up to hot tea and clean clothes before heading off to school. Their resilience, love, and sacrifices are equally worthy of admiration, and they serve as powerful role models.

The program ended with many heartfelt comments and questions from AAFSW’s guests, who thanked Sheila Switzer, AAFSW Program Chair, for organizing this event. Sheila’s dedication to cross-cultural understanding and tireless efforts to promote women’s causes have been invaluable. The lively conversation kept its momentum at the coffee reception following the program.

As we reflect on Women’s History Month, let us continue to keep these exceptional women whose vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment inspire us all. Their willingness to share their journeys as women with families and global leaders is a testament to their generosity and authenticity.

AAFSW is grateful to the State Department Management and Chief Media Services Division for supporting our program and sharing this event recording.

Celine Ford, AAFSW President

Extravaganza: A Lunar New Year Celebration at the Malaysian Embassy

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 01:01:12 GMT

By Celine Ford, President, AAFSW

The Malaysian Embassy in Washington, D.C., came alive with vibrant colors, cultural performances, and festive spirit as it co-hosted with AAFSW an extravagant Lunar New Year celebration on February 23, 2024. The event, organized by His Excellency Ambassador Nazri Aziz and Mrs. Haflin Nazri Aziz, welcomed guests to usher in the Year of the Dragon with joy and unity.

Unity Is Strength: A Malaysian Motto

The message resonated deeply as we gathered, remembering the auspicious motto of the country, “Bersekutu Bertambah Mutu” (Unity is Strength). The diverse crowd, including Excellencies, distinguished spouses of ambassadors, valued members, and friends of the Associates of the American Foreign Services Worldwide (AAFSW), exemplified the power of collaboration and shared purpose.

The Significance of the Lunar New Year

The Lunar New Year, or the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, holds immense importance for the Chinese Malaysian community. It marks the beginning of the lunar calendar and typically falls between late January and mid-February. We celebrated the Year of the Dragon, a symbol of courage and tenacity this year.

A Malaysian Guide to the Festivities

Dragon Puppets and Traditional Displays

The embassy grounds came alive with traditional dragon puppets, stretching up to an impressive 65 feet. These interconnected segments, held by dedicated teams, weaved through the crowd, symbolizing prosperity, strength, and good fortune. Lions danced alongside, their vibrant colors adding to the festive atmosphere.

Lanterns, Drums, and Confetti

Red lanterns adorned the pathways, casting a warm glow as the sunset. Drums and cymbals reverberated through the air, creating an infectious rhythm. Puffs of confetti added an element of surprise, delighting both young and old.

Multilingual Greetings

As marchers paraded, they shouted “Happy New Year” in English, seamlessly blending traditional Mandarin and Cantonese greetings. The air buzzed with excitement as wishes for financial prosperity echoed around us.

A Global Celebration

Across the world, Asian communities welcomed the Lunar New Year with fireworks, parades, and rituals. In New York, larger Chinese immigrant enclaves in Queens and Brooklyn had already celebrated. But here, at the Malaysian Embassy, the festivities continued, bridging cultures, and fostering goodwill.

Ambassador Nazri Aziz’s Sincere Address

Amidst the vibrant festivities, Ambassador Nazri Aziz took the stage, his voice carrying the weight of history and diplomacy. He spoke of the special relationship between Malaysia and the United States with genuine warmth—a bond forged through mutual understanding, shared values, and a commitment to making the world a better place.

Ambassador Aziz emphasized the importance of cultural exchange, education, and collaboration. He praised the tireless efforts of diplomats, scholars, and citizens who work tirelessly to strengthen ties between our nations. His heartfelt speech resonated with everyone present, reminding us that diplomacy is not just about treaties and protocols; it’s about building bridges of friendship and goodwill.

An Exquisite Malay Culinary Journey at the Grand Ballroom

One of the most memorable and enchanting moments during the event was the sumptuous feast served to the enchanted guests in the lavishly adorned ballroom. The culinary team meticulously crafted each dish from scratch, infusing them with love and tradition.

The gastronomic adventure commenced with the Lunar New Year Yee Sang Toss, a Malaysian gem that symbolizes prosperity, health, and good fortune. As guests gathered around the elegantly set tables, they participated in this unique tradition, tossing vibrant ingredients high into the air, their hopes soaring.

Then the buffet opened, unfolding the Yee Sang Cantonese-Style Raw Fish Salad: A harmonious blend of fresh fish, crisp vegetables, and zesty sauces; Longevity Noodles Soup: Steaming bowls of fragrant broth cradled delicate noodles, signifying a wish for a long and prosperous life; Seafood Dumplings: The ocean’s bounty wrapped in translucent skins.

The Buah-Buahan Platter, a vibrant display of tropical fruits was served with the Dragon Fruit, with its magenta flesh and speckled skin, mandarin oranges, symbols of luck, nestled beside Persimmons, the Pomelo, a giant citrus orb; the Lai Chee Knag, a dessert combining dried fruits and Sweet Lotus Seeds was served with the Pu’er Tea: The finale—a cup of fermented Chinese tea. Guests sipping Pu’er Teaoff shared stories, laughter, and dreams. The beautifully decorated ballroom witnessed a meal and a culinary symphony, a true celebration of life, culture, and connection.

A Breathtaking Evening

Our guests were captivated by the event, feeling a genuine sense of inclusion in Malaysia’s Lunar New Year celebrations. They were profoundly touched and immensely thankful for the warm reception extended by Ambassador Nazri Aziz, Mrs. Haflin Nazri Aziz, and their committed team. The level of teamwork and coordination required for this event must have been immense; the execution was flawless, making the evening genuinely breathtaking.

As we embraced the Year of the Dragon, we carried the spirit of unity, resilience, and hope. The Malaysian Embassy’s Lunar New Year celebration was more than an event; it was a testament to the bonds that connect us all. May this year bring us closer to realizing our aspirations, just as the dragon soars toward the skies.

The Associates of the American Foreign Services Worldwide (AAFSW) thank Ambassador Nazri Aziz, Mrs. Haflin Nazri Aziz, and their dedicated team for hosting this memorable celebration.

AAFSW Participated in January’s FSI Onboarding Fair

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 01:03:22 GMT

AAFSW participated in the U.S. Department of State Onboarding Fair, organized by FSI for

the new orientation class on January 17-18. Over the course of two days around 230 Foreign Service specialist and generalist students visited the Fair and learned about the different organizations that offer support and services to members of the U.S. Foreign Service and their dependents.

This was a great opportunity to connect with new Foreign Service employees and share information about AAFSW and different ways we can support them. Valentyna, AAFSW Office Manager, and Martine Nakpil, AAFSW Housing Chair, were able to meet representatives of other organizations, including GCLO, Ralph J. Bunche Library, Americans by Choice, and other employee organizations, and understand better their functions and ways we can work together.

AAFSW Donates to GWUH

Sat, 03 Feb 2024 01:04:01 GMT

It was a pleasure to meet with Malika Winzor, the President of The George Washington University Hospital Women’s Board (GWUH), and Carmen L. Stull, the Chair of the Board of Directors, at the Harris S. Truman Building on January 30, 2024. Sheila Switzer, our Program Chair, and I were there to represent our organization and to give your generous donation raised during our successful dinner gala at the Embassy of Colombia in December 2023.

The donation will support GWUH’s ongoing mission to advance the charitable purposes of GW Hospital and the local community, including health care, education, healthcare advancement initiatives, patient advocacy, healthcare awareness promotion, and medical research.

We want to express our sincere and renewed gratitude to all those who attended the gala and H.E. Ambassador Luis Gilberto Murillo.

Your support made this donation possible.

Sincerely,

Celine Ford

President’s Letter, January 2024

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 01:06:47 GMT

Dear AAFSW Members and Friends,

We are thrilled to usher in the New Year by announcing that our organization has amplified its commitment to giving back. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your steadfast support. Our Board of Directors has sanctioned a twenty-five percent increase in our donations for the year 2024 to the “Foreign Service National Relief Fund.” This fund, administered by the Department of State, provides assistance to local and national staff overseas who are in need. This increase in our contribution will benefit four selected embassies.

In addition, we will continue our annual contributions to the Foreign Service Youth Foundation (FSYF), the Merit Scholarship for College Students, and the Secretary of State Awards for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA). Your generous contribution to our December 2023 dinner gala at the Embassy of Colombia has enabled us to significantly donate to The George Washington University Hospital Women’s Board. This donation supported their 20th Annual Lights of Life Tree Lighting Ceremony, which honors and remembers loved ones, friends, first responders, military personnel, and other notable individuals.

On another front, we are collaborating with the American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) to enhance the “Be Nice” cable. This initiative aims to provide support to families undergoing a divorce. Our goal is to assist in abandonment cases, foster resilience, enhance well-being, and facilitate a smoother transition for those affected. Over the years, AAFSW has raised funds through the Crisis Fund to help in such situations. We are advocating for a more structured and reliable system to ensure everyone can navigate life changes with dignity and support. Furthermore, we are committed to assisting in training legal experts skilled in international law. This is particularly important when employees face challenging situations regarding child custody while serving overseas. These situations become particularly complex when dealing with cross-continental custody and parenting issues, especially when living abroad and having a foreign-born spouse.

We want to express our sincere gratitude to The Una Chapman Cox Foundation, who approved our grant proposal of $10,000. This grant, titled “Shared Platform for Dialogue and Legislative Change and FS Community Business Directory,” enhances the opportunities available to Eligible Family Members (EFMs) within our community. However, due to professional, personal, and location-related issues of the people involved, AAFSW cannot pursue this ambitious and worthwhile effort at this time. We believe it is best if the Cox Foundation’s funding for AAFSW is redirected toward another deserving cause and an organization committed to achieving the Cox Foundation’s mission. We sincerely thank Ambassador Jo Ellen Powell, Alexis Alexander-Jackson, and the Una Chapman Cox Foundation for their support.

We are also delighted to highlight the positive impact of our international programs and fundraising galas, including the Ambassador Speaker Series held throughout the year. These events have provided a platform for ambassadors to share their insights and experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of global affairs in our community.

One of our notable international programs is the Asian Women’s Circle (AWC). This network, comprising women from 10 Asian countries, shared their region’s vibrant and peaceful culture in October 2023. This event was a testament to our commitment to promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

In December 2023, we hosted an event dedicated to the Games of the XXXIII Olympiad (French: Jeux de la XXXIII Olympiad), Paris 2024. This event, held at the U.S. State Department HST Building, celebrated the spirit of sportsmanship and global unity that the Olympics embody. Most of these events were recorded and are available on our website, allowing those who could not attend to still benefit from the rich content and discussions.

Your participation in these events and programs has been instrumental in helping us achieve our organization’s goals. We are committed to promoting cross-cultural understanding and fostering a global community that values diversity and mutual respect. We look forward to your continued support of our upcoming initiatives.

Thank you once again for being a part of our journey.

Celine

Watch the 2023 Awards Ceremony

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 01:07:37 GMT

On November 29, 2023, the Associates of the Foreign Service Worldwide (AAFSW) held the 2023 Secretary of State Awards for Outstanding Volunteerism Abroad (SOSA) ceremony at the Benjamin Franklin Room of the Harry S. Truman Building in Washington, D.C.

Families and friends traveled from far away to support the winners of the 2023 SOSA, the Champions of Career Enhancement for Eligible Family Members Award (CCE-EFM), the Leslie Dorman Award, and the Eleanor Dodson Tragen Award winners.

You can watch a recording of the ceremony on our youtube channel. Congratulations to our 2023 award winners and nominees!

GCLO at 45: Looking Back at Its History and AAFSW’s Role

AAFSW Webmaster — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 16:12:17 GMT

This year, the Global Community Liaison Office (GCLO) turned 45. While the office is well-known within the foreign affairs community, many are not aware of its history and the role AAFSW played in its creation. In 2021, we discussed the name change with GCLO. However, we didn’t discuss the office’s creation or AAFSW’s role. To get firsthand information on these topics, we sat down with Mette Beecroft, who, along with a colleague, actually opened the office in March of 1978.

Setting the Stage

While GCLO was officially formed in 1978, many of the conditions or realities that eventually led to its formation go back as far as 1956, when the few women who were full-fledged FSOs realized that they had little hope of a real career in the Foreign Service as it was then organized. According to Mette, “In that year, only 4.6 % of the FSOs were women and only 1% were in the senior ranks. They were expected to resign when they married and were not accepted if they had children.” In addition to traditional FSOs, there was also the Staff Corps, which was primarily composed of female secretaries. For them, Mette said, “the story was worse: they had to share housing, work unpaid overtime, were often without diplomatic status and were excluded from official functions.”

Meanwhile, Foreign Service wives were beginning to chafe at the constraints placed upon their activities. Also that year, a book entitled “The Diplomat’s Wife” appeared. It offered the following advice to the wives of FSOs: “One of the wife’s most constant preoccupations should be to assist the wife of her chief at all times and in every way possible. They may ask you to take part in charitable events, amateur dramatics or women’s club work. You can help your husband tremendously by having a reputation for unfailing helpfulness.”

This meant that junior spouses were at the beck and call of more senior spouses. Even worse, spouses were included in their husband’s “efficiency report,” which went into their husband’s official file but which they were unable to see. This meant that they were afraid to speak out about their concerns for fear of damaging their husband’s career.

And so, quite early on, there were a number of women who were dissatisfied with the status quo. However, they saw no way to address their concerns.

An Association Forms

Sometimes in history, the right person comes along at the right time. In this instance, that person was one June Byrne Spencer, a secretary who married her boss, a very senior FSO. For starters, such a marriage was very much frowned upon. In 1960, she proposed the formation of an organization that would represent families of every rank. This was a proposal for the wives of diplomats and staff members to work together. As June wrote: “Jaws dropped, there was silence, this was heretical.” This was the beginning of AAFSW. While the organization was originally called the Association of American Foreign Service Women, the name has been updated to the Associates of the American Foreign Service Worldwide, keeping the same acronym. Ultimately, the AAFSW played the leading role in the creation and promotion of the Family Liaison Office — the FLO.

The 1972 Directive

A few years later, in 1963, Betty Friedan published “The Feminine Mystique,” a revolutionary book that suggested that women could find real satisfaction working outside of the home. It was very widely read and became a sort of manifesto for young women who wished to work. However, many Foreign Service wives remained hesitant to bring up the topic lest it damage their husband’s career.

The younger women who were very dissatisfied with the restrictions placed upon them found an ally in an unexpected place: Under Secretary for Management William Macomber. In that capacity, he set about to make several administrative reforms, one of which became known as “The 1972 Directive.” First, it directed that wives at post could not be told to perform tasks for the U.S. Government, because they were not employees. Second, it directed that wives at post could not be mentioned in their husband’s efficiency report. Macomber also put an end to obliging women to resign from the Foreign Service if they married.

Thus, “The 72 Directive” gave women the courage to speak up about their concerns, since they could no longer be mentioned in their spouse’s efficiency report. And it also gave them more control over their own time if they wanted to work while at post.

FLO is Born

While AAFSW concentrated on bringing the needs and wishes of family members to the attention of senior management, in 1976, the AAFSW decided that it had to take more forceful action. This decision resulted in the creation of the “FORUM,” a “think tank” within the ranks of the AAFSW. This new body functioned with great intensity. One of the first things the FORUM did was to send out a questionnaire worldwide asking people about their concerns. Predictably, these concerns were about employment for spouses, education for children, assistance in the event of personal or political emergencies, and more. Under the leadership of the late Lesley Dorman (then AAFSW President), she and volunteers from the recently created FORUM reviewed all the questionnaires that had been returned and prepared a document titled “Report on the Concerns of Foreign Service Spouses and Families,” which was delivered personally by Lesley to the late Cyrus Vance, then Secretary of State, in March of 1977.

One of the major recommendations of this FORUM report was to create the FLO. The Secretary agreed and wrote, “The concept is a good one and I support it. The Office will be an invaluable asset to the Department’s efforts to be responsive to the needs and concerns of FS families.”

Only one year later, which one local newspaper reporter considered a minor miracle, the Family Liaison Office opened its doors on March 1, 1978.

Gaining Momentum

Change is always hard and while the FLO was clearly a concept whose time had come, it wasn’t immediately accepted across the board. According to Mette: “Sometimes, people’s attitude simply reflected the times. By some, we were seen as ‘little ladies’ who wanted to feel important. That is to say, we experienced a certain amount of condescension which was easy to ignore, especially since Janet Lloyd, the FLO Director had an advanced degree in Social Work from Catholic University and I had a PhD from the University of Pennsylvania. It was important to be knowledgeable, to write well and to answer all communications promptly, accurately, and completely. Being very well prepared for any meeting was also extremely important. As we adhered to these standards, the tide began to turn. As for being useful to people, every manager wants his post to run smoothly. Thus, when people began to realize what CLOs could contribute to the morale of family members at post, they became more accepting of the entire concept. It almost meant in some cases that the CLO would be able to deal with cases which previously PER would have had to deal with.”

“Interestingly, many people had been told that the only reason the FLO had been opened was because they (mostly HR, Admin and GSO staff) were not doing their job well. This was not true. It meant in the early days of the FLO, we spent a lot of time talking with groups about the conditions that led to the FLO’s creation — an increase in divorces, spouses desiring work, parents knowing more of what they wanted from their children’s school, and an increase in evacuations,” says Mette. “From personal experience, I can say that people appreciated that the FLO was willing to come and talk with them to explain the realities. These conversations helped to establish our credentials.”

It also was an office without a precedent. There was no history for including the support of family members in the bureaucratic structure of the State Department, so the FLO staff needed create their own operating procedures, which they did with the help of specialized offices within the Department. They also focused on creating and supporting the overseas CLOs, as well as finding and retaining reference material on divorce, employment, and education. “In other words, we were constantly finding ways to institutionalize practices which we found to be useful and indeed necessary if the material was to be available to others. However, there was no structure when we arrived. We created what we needed as we encountered the need.”

It did not take long for the FLO to establish itself. According to Mette: “We knew that we had arrived when the Under Secretary for Management wrote in a letter to me that the FLO was so well established that it was hard to realize we had been functioning for less than two years.”

An Indispensable Office

While the GCLO has grown — what began as an office of three now has a staff of 36, plus all the overseas, post-based CLOs — the principles and responsibilities of the original FLO remain the same: the overseas CLO program, family member employment, education counseling, evacuation assistance, and community outreach.

GCLO now takes on much more outreach than the original office could do, in addition to providing even more services, including: expeditious naturalization, crisis management and support services, and unaccompanied tour support.

As Mette puts it: “It is enormously gratifying to realize that the Office has reached its 45th birthday and shows no signs of stopping — only of taking on ever more responsibility. Truly, I am in awe of what the Office has become.”