THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL | NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2025 83 AFSA NEWS AFSA Receives “Clean” Audit for Record 16th Year Following another detailed audit process conducted by the accounting firm Gross Mendelsohn, AFSA is pleased to report its 16th straight audit result with an unmodified opinion, commonly referred to as a “clean” audit. The auditors presented the report at the Governing Board’s August meeting. AFSA is not required to undergo annual audits by any laws or regulations, but we believe that being able to point to sound financial management and integrity in operations is important for both our members and any external stakeholders. As AFSA enters a turbulent financial period, with plans to engage outside donors for significant support for the first time in the association’s history, this record will stand us in good stead as we make the case for the importance of helping AFSA stand up for the Foreign Service. AFSA Executive Director Ásgeir Sigfússon said: “At this fraught moment, this confirmation of AFSA’s determination to shepherd our resources wisely and remain accountable to our members is very welcome. I expect that we will extend the streak to 17 years in 2026.” AFSA will post the Form 990 tax documents and other relevant resources on its website in December. n AFSA Webinar MSPB Appeals 101 On August 14, AFSA hosted a practical webinar on navigating Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) appeals without counsel, moderated by AFSA Deputy General Counsel Raeka Safai and led by Danny Rosenthal of the law firm James & Hoffman. Designed for Foreign Service members pursuing pro se appeals—instances in which AFSA Webinar Understanding Market Volatility On July 30, AFSA hosted a webinar on navigating today’s uncertain financial environment. The third in a series offered this year concerning member finances, the program was titled “Managing Emotions During Market Volatility.” Organized by AFSA’s then–Counselor for Retirees Dolores Brown, the event featured financial planner William Carrington, who shared reflections on how Foreign Service members and retirees alike can approach market swings with confidence. The discussion emphasized big-picture themes: the longterm nature of investing, the value of diversification, and the importance of aligning financial choices with personal goals and risk tolerance rather than reacting to headlines. Members also heard practical considerations for retirement planning and how to keep perspective when markets fluctuate. Carrington stressed that while volatility can be unsettling, it is also a normal part of the investing cycle. By staying disciplined and informed, members can better position themselves for long-term financial stability. A recording of the full program is available to AFSA members at https://afsa.org/afsa-videos. n individuals represent themselves without an attorney— the session focused on how to start an appeal and what to expect after filing. Rosenthal walked through the basics: using the MSPB’s e-Appeal system, the importance of filing within 30 days of separation, and the roles of administrative judges and the board. He highlighted what typically follows an initial filing, such as discovery, pre-hearing conferences, and virtual hearings. During the Q&A, members asked about timelines, consolidation of similar appeals, potential remedies (such as reinstatement, back pay, and restoration of benefits), and the possibility of securing counsel after filing. Rosenthal concluded by pointing attendees to procedural resources, such as the MSPB rules and the Judges’ Handbook, to help pro se appellants prepare effectively. A full recording of the event is available to AFSA members at https://afsa.org/ afsa-videos. n
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