News

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

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

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

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Celine Ford, President