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