The Foreign Service Journal, March 2019

THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL | MARCH 2019 69 AFSA NEWS the lack of priority being accorded by some key figures to the importance and direction of U.S. diplomacy and given the ongoing efforts to slash resources and limit personnel in our foreign affairs agencies. We strongly encourage your contri- butions to this fund, given the vital importance of diplomacy to America’s security and prosperity. We look forward to retiree members living around the country expanding their work with AFSA to organize outreach activities, which highlight the importance of our diplomatic and development professionals and activities for America. The FAD Operating Reserve began 2018 with $295,381 and ended the year with $413,964 invested. The Governing Board moved some additional funds back to the reserve to assure resources will be available for special needs. The approved 2019 AFSA operating budget also incorporates funds dedi- cated to FAD activities of some $303,000. Sinclaire Fund: AFSA also maintains the Matilda W. Sinclaire Fund, which is intended to support excellence in language achievement. AFSA draws on that fund yearly to pay for the language achievement awards. The Sinclaire Fund began 2018 with $474,014 invested and ended the year with $477,094. The AFSA operating budget figures for 2015 through 2019 in the chart above include the FAD operating reserve as part of the total. The chart provides basic data for your information for several years since 2000. The chart allows us to appreciate AFSA’s very solid financial position and the good financial stewardship of our association’s leadership in this century. AFSA’s excellent financial health and continued strong membership from the foreign affairs agencies will allow the association to focus on its mission to serve as the “Voice of the Foreign Service” during this time of serious challenges for our Service. We encourage your ongoing financial support to enhance our outreach and education efforts. Especially important will be your active participation in AFSA’s work and mission in 2019. n —Tony (Earl Anthony) Wayne, AFSA Treasurer