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During the course of one action-packed hour, this dedicated group of
Foreign Service members tackled the multifaceted issue of how to build a
stronger Foreign Service equipped to lead America’s foreign policy in the
21st century. The gathering marked the beginning of a new member inreach
initiative designed to help AFSA fulfill its role as the voice of the Foreign
Service by informing its advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and with manage-
ment. Over the course of the year, AFSA hosted 18 structured conversations
with approximately 175 members of the Foreign Service who shared their
stories and constructively contributed to AFSA’s mission of promoting a
strong professional career Foreign Service. Each session was limited to a
specific Foreign Service cohort (FS-1, FS-2, OMS, DS, USAID, etc.). After an
overwhelmingly positive response from membership, AFSA has institutional-
ized these structured conversations and plans to host these lunches again
in 2017.
CONNECTING WITH MEMBERS AROUND THE COUNTRY
As we move forward in cementing our strategic partnerships, an enhanced
focus on travel by AFSA’s leadership has provided opportunities for useful
connections around the country. As part of these regular visits, meetings
with our local Foreign Service retirees are always useful to get feedback
on issues of concern and to encourage retirees to participate actively in
outreach to raise awareness in their communities of the vital role the
FOCUS ON
MEMBER
CONCERNS
In March, AFSA hosted
a breakfast for some
of the Foreign Service’s
most seasoned leaders
during the annual Chiefs
of Mission Conference.
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30
AFSA meets with
Pearson Fellows
on Capitol Hill.