Capturing the Most Notable Contributions
from ADST’s Oral History Collection

With the generous support of the Una Chapman Cox Foundation, ADST will mark the centennial of the modern Foreign Service by compiling an anthology of the best and most notable passages from our extensive oral history archives covering events over the last 100 years. ADST will publish the centennial anthology in early 2025 as a softcover book and in digital form. 

Our centennial anthology will spotlight the impressive contributions of America’s diplomats across the history of the modern Foreign Service. Selected passages will span all regions of the world and include interviewees from all parts of the foreign affairs community, illustrating their involvement in historic events, service to the American people, and the sacrifices and dangers they have faced. This anthology will present the full variety of foreign affairs voices, as the Foreign Service gradually reflected more of the diversity and promise of the United States itself. And it will demonstrate the evolution of American diplomacy, in peacetime and in war, as our foreign policy has expanded to cover new priorities such as human rights and environmental challenges. 

If you have recorded your oral history with ADST, we welcome your nominations of the most notable passages. 

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:

You may send an outstanding passage from your ADST oral history to [email protected]. Please include the words “Anthology Submission,” your name, and some indication of the subject matter in your subject line. 

Your submission can be in the form of a Word or Google document or just a note to let us know the topic and section of your oral history you would like us to consider. Excerpts may cover historic events, interesting people, particular aspects of the work in your specialty, family life, or the evolution of the Foreign Service over time. An average oral history excerpt in our book will range from 500 words (1 page) to 1500 words (3 pages). We will carefully trim back longer submissions and ensure all are polished for this publication. 

If your oral history is still with you for edits, please consider finalizing your review so your wonderful stories have the chance to be included in this collection. There has never been a better time!