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 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