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We took a large step in this direction on September 30, when the Washing-
ton Nationals baseball team celebrated Foreign Service Night at Nationals
Park. During the pre-game festivities, in front of 40,000 fans in the stadium
and countless tens of thousands watching on TV, Foreign Service members
were honored for their service during the ‘Spirit Awards’ ceremony and
Ambassador Barbara Stephenson threw out the ceremonial first pitch. She
was introduced with these words: “Tonight she represents the 450 mem-
bers of the United States Foreign Service joining us for the game as well
as the 16,000 individuals serving America’s people, interests and values
around the world.”
ENHANCING PARTNERSHIPS
As AFSA’s strategic pillars were solidified at the end of 2015, our efforts
refocused to reflect the new vision. On the communications side, public
outreach and education became the overall focus and resources were
realigned accordingly. Thanks to a new partnership with the Una Chapman
Cox Foundation, we added a new part-time position whose sole focus is
outreach and strategic partnerships. Consequently, AFSA has forged new
connections with natural partners with national networks. These allow the
association to amplify its message around the country down to the local
level, connecting Foreign Service experts and volunteers with members of
the public in all 50 states.
INTRODUCING THE
FOREIGN SERVICE
TO AMERICA
AFSA’s outreach efforts
all contain an element
of explaining to our
fellow citizens what the
Foreign Service is and
why its work matters.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19
AFSA President
Ambassador Barbara
Stephenson throws
out the ceremonial
first pitch during
Foreign Service Night
at Nationals Park.
AFSA members being honored
during Foreign Service Night
at Nationals Park.