Remarks by Ambassador Charles Ray

Ambassador Ray briefed an outgoing class of Foreign Area Officers recently. See video of his remarks which include comments on the December 2022 African Leaders Summit hosted by President Biden.

Ambassador C. Stephen McCann

It is extremely sad to report the passing of Ambassador C. Stephen McGann, President of the Assciation of Black American Ambassadors (ABAA).  He was proud family man, successful consulting firm founder, accomplished Senior Foreign Service Officer and creative contributor to many international affairs organizations after his retirement from State.

African American Female Ambassadors: First to Serve in Work-Related Positions

When I take a historical look at Black Women in international affairs, I immediately think of outstanding figures such as Patricia Roberts Harris, the first Black female ambassador and others who followed her including Ambassador Mabel M. Smythe, then later in 1990 Ambassador Aurelia E. Brazeal who became the first African American female Foreign Service Officer (FSO) to be appointed ambassador, three times – a singular honor.

Secretary leads TLG’s 50th-anniversary celebration

The Thursday Luncheon Group (TLG), launched a year-long celebration of its 50th anniversary, Feb. 2, with a festive luncheon in the Department of State’s famed diplomatic reception room, the Benjamin Franklin State Dining Room.