The Foreign Service Journal, September 2016

80 SEPTEMBER 2016 | THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL AFSA NEWS Forging Foreign Service Alliances in the Rocky Mountains AFSA President Ambas- sador Barbara Stephenson and Director of Professional Policy Issues Maria Livings- ton traveled to Denver in June to meet with policy- makers, civic organizations and business leaders. Part of AFSA’s outreach efforts, the trip aimed to increase public understand- ing of the critical role of the Foreign Service in advancing America’s national security and economic prosperity. Amb. Stephenson met with the board of World- Denver—a nonprofit orga - nization whose mission is to strengthen and expand the community of engaged global citizens and organiza- tions in Colorado. A member of the national association of World Affairs Councils of America and Global Ties U.S., WorldDen- ver administers the Depart- ment of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program. There Amb. Stephenson spoke on the subject of “Women in Foreign Policy” to an impressive group of more than 40 WorldDenver members from all profes- sional walks of life. The Denver Metro Cham- ber of Commerce hosted Amb. Stephenson for a busi- ness roundtable discussion with representatives from many Colorado industries. Amb. Stephenson explained how the Foreign Service can help them in their pursuits to invest in and export to overseas markets and fielded ques- tions related to participants’ unique situa- tions. AFSA also hosted a breakfast at the University of Denver’s Josef Korbel School of International Studies that featured Direc- tor General of the Foreign Service Arnold Chacón. Ambassa- dor (ret.) Gary Grappo, speak- ing on behalf of the university in his role as a distinguished fellow, welcomed the group and introduced Michael Keaveny, a retired Foreign Commercial Service officer AFSA President Ambassador Barbara Stephenson speaks to Foreign Service retirees at the Josef Korbel School of International Studies. AFSA/MARIALIVINGSTON and head of the FS Retirees of Colorado group. Amb. Stephenson and DG Chacón discussed their visions for a stronger Foreign Service in 2025 and beyond, as well as the critical role retirees can play in improving the American public’s awareness and appreciation of the Service. The tour concluded with meetings with Colorado Lt. Governor Donna Lynne and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, both of whom expressed gratitude for the support U.S. embassies and consulates have given to Colorado trade missions abroad. AFSA looks forward to working in the future with the advocates of diplomacy and development in Colo- rado and other states. n —Orianne Gonzalez, Communications Intern AFSA President Ambassador Barbara Stephenson meets with Denver Mayor Michael Hancock during her recent trip to Colorado to promote the Foreign Service and meet with policymakers and business leaders. AFSA/MARIALIVINGSTON