AFSA NEWS 84 NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2025 | THE FOREIGN SERVICE JOURNAL Foreign Policy Insights at Chautauqua AFSA Hosts Member Meetup From September 22 to 26, 2025, AFSA partnered with the Road Scholar program to present a weeklong series of foreign policy lectures at the historic Chautauqua Institution in upstate New York. The 2025 program drew more than 140 participants from 25 U.S. states, with one traveler journeying from as far away as Perth, Australia. Set against the backdrop of Chautauqua’s rich tradition of intellectual engagement and the scenic lake of the same name, the series explored pressing global issues including U.S. foreign assistance, turmoil in the Middle East, Russia’s aggression, and the realities of life in the Foreign Service. This year’s speakers included former AFSA President Ambassador Eric Rubin, Ambassador Eric Whitaker, Ambassador Jimmy Kolker, Molly Williamson, Roberta Mahoney, and Steve Herman, who returned for the third consecutive September to lecture on presidential–press relations from Washington to Trump and on the dire fate of U.S. public diplomacy. The series remains a cornerstone of AFSA’s outreach efforts to strengthen public understanding of the vital work performed by America’s career diplomats. n Speakers at the 2025 AFSA–Road Scholar Chautauqua program. From left: Ambassador Eric Whitaker, Ambassador Eric Rubin, Roberta Mahoney, Ambassador Jimmy Kolker, Molly Williamson, and Steve Herman. AFSA/NADJA RUZICA On September 17, AFSA welcomed more than 150 members to headquarters for an evening of community and connection. The fall member mixer drew a lively crowd who gathered to enjoy themed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and conversation with colleagues from across the Foreign Service community. In addition to networking, attendees had the opportunity to sit for free professional headshots courtesy of AFSA. AFSA President John “Dink” Dinkelman offered brief remarks during the event, highlighting the vital role of the Foreign Service and the resilience of its community, and emphasizing AFSA’s ongoing commitment to supporting its members. AFSA thanks the State Department Federal Credit Union for generously sponsoring the event, which made this gathering possible. We look forward to hosting more member meetups in the months ahead. n AFSA President John Dinkelman offers remarks to attendees on September 17, 2025. AFSA/NADJA RUZICA
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