38 JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2024 | THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL One chapter has stood out. Arroyo High School, a public high school in San Lorenzo, California, earned the title “Chapter of the Year” after conducting three guest speaker lectures and a plethora of other events in the span of a year. As Luis Derla, founder of the chapter and HSFSA Western regional director, said: “My chapter’s success on the West Coast was not without struggle, as we had to deal with issues such as school bureaucracy, logistics, and other frivolous technicalities. Despite this, however, we persisted. We have since become an established debate organization in our school, providing students great opportunities to debate world affairs.” This chapter is a role model for schools around the nation. The founders of the most effective chapters have become members of HSFSA’s Council of Regional Directors, guiding their peers in the different regions. Our Pledge As founder of the High School Foreign Service Association, I am endlessly grateful for the support that the American Foreign Service Association has provided to HSFSA along its journey. I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to every speaker who took the time to share their wisdom with our students, and I am thankful for the unwavering support and dedication of chapter founders and members. I am confident that our united enthusiasm and work guarantee a bright and long future for HSFSA. The High School Foreign Service Association is driven by a sense of purpose that extends far beyond the immediate horizon. We hope to help build a future where diplomacy and diplomats play an even greater role in world affairs. In honor of 2024’s grand milestone—both the U.S. Foreign Service’s and AFSA’s celebration of a momentous 100th anniversary— HSFSA pledges to reach 100 chapters. With every chapter established, with every student inspired, we are contributing to a future where diplomacy remains a beacon of hope, bridging divides and forging connections in the pursuit of global harmony. Together, we are forging the next generation of American diplomacy. n We hope to help build a future where diplomacy and diplomats play an even greater role in world affairs.
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