News

On behalf of AAFSW, we commemorated the Centennial Foreign Affairs Day on May 3, 2024. It was an honor to acknowledge the courageous and dignified individuals in foreign affairs and to pay tribute to those who made the supreme sacrifice during the Wreath Ceremony.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Deputy Secretary Verma for paying homage to AAFSW’s Wreath, a symbol of remembrance for our Foreign Service Family Members who have passed away while serving abroad. Their memories continue to inspire us. As always, thank you for being so supportive.

Celine Ford – President AAFSW

Volunteer Your Time and Energy!

Volunteers are the backbone of Books & Global Treasures shop and the annual Art & BookFair, making them both possible.

During the year, our team enjoys working together in the Books & Global Treasures shop while simultaneously preparing for the annual Art and BookFair. Some of the year-round tasks are collecting, sorting, pricing and organizing the stream of donations. Your personal cultural experience and insights can be invaluable.

Can’t come into the shop regularly? Some items may be researched on the web from anywhere.

Volunteers also help with publicity (posters, signs,) and picking up donations. There are many other tasks that volunteers perform during the actual Art & BookFair. These include assisting customers, cashiering, keeping shelves tidy, replenishing the selections, setting up and breaking down the venue and supporting the Stamp Corner, Art Corner and Volunteer breakroom.

Join our team working on and off site. Hours flexible.

Don’t wait to sign-up to volunteer. We need 30-40 volunteers throughout the year, increasing to more than 100 during Art & BookFair. Contact Anne Kauzlarich for more information: Anne.kauzlarich@aafsw.org.

More ways you can help: Donate books, foreign stamps, jewelry and cultural wares. We can arrange a pick-up if needed. Books can also be dropped off in the blue book collection bins at various locations in main State, SA1 (Columbia Plaza) and SA17 (19 th St. NW).

Contact: Brian Neumann, 202-223-5796 or bookstore@aafsw.org.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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!