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  • 04/08/2024 1:07 AM | AAFSW Webmaster (Administrator)

    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


  • 03/15/2024 1:09 AM | AAFSW Webmaster (Administrator)

    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.


  • 03/10/2024 7:59 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    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



  • 02/27/2024 8:01 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    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.


  • 02/12/2024 8:03 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    Information on a board with a table

    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.


  • 02/02/2024 8:04 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    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


  • 01/17/2024 8:06 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    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


  • 12/28/2023 8:07 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    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!


  • 10/25/2023 12:12 PM | AAFSW Webmaster (Administrator)

    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.”  



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