News

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, 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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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 

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               

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