Society of Foreign Consuls Celebrates a New Chapter at Historic Manhattan Gathering
Updated: 1 day ago
On October 28, 2026, the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York (SoFC) welcomed representatives from 27 countries, alongside distinguished figures from the diplomatic, business, and institutional communities, for an Extraordinary General Assembly at the historic Columbus Citizens Foundation in Manhattan.
Led by the Society’s President, Ambassador Vladimir Božović, PhD, Consul General of the Republic of Serbia in New York, the gathering celebrated more than a century of international friendship while introducing new initiatives designed to strengthen the Society’s influence and engagement.
An Evening of Diplomacy in a Historic Setting
The evening unfolded at the Columbus Citizens Foundation, an elegant Gilded Age townhouse located at 8 East 69th Street on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
Designed in 1892 for Charles Lewis Colby by the architectural firm Peabody and Stearns, the landmark residence is known for its grand interiors and rich architectural heritage. Today, the Foundation serves as an important center for preserving Italian-American culture through educational programs, scholarships, and cultural events.
Guests enjoyed a welcome reception, musical performances, and opportunities to connect with fellow members of New York’s international diplomatic community.
A Vision for the Society’s Second Century
Founded in 1925, the Society of Foreign Consuls in New York has long served as a forum for cooperation and dialogue among the city's consular representatives.
During the working session, Ambassador Božović presented his vision, shared with the Society’s Executive Committee, for a more inclusive and dynamic organization, emphasizing economic diplomacy, institutional partnerships, and greater opportunities for member participation.
A central priority is ensuring that every country, regardless of its size or diplomatic representation, has an opportunity to contribute, share its culture, and strengthen its visibility within New York’s international community.
Among the initiatives discussed was a proposed SoFC Business and Investment Forum, envisioned as a platform to connect diplomatic representatives with business leaders and potential investment opportunities. Plans to expand digital communications and international networking were also highlighted.
Ambassador Gerardo A. Díaz Bartolomé, Deputy President of the Society and Consul General of Argentina, joined representatives from Russia, Türkiye, Barbados, Brazil, Malta, and Egypt in contributing ideas for the organization’s future.
Honoring Distinguished Service
One of the evening’s defining moments was the presentation of the Society’s inaugural Annual Award to Kathleen Eagen, former Regional Director of the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Foreign Missions in New York.
Presented by Ambassador Božović, the new distinction recognizes individuals or institutions whose work has made a meaningful contribution to the diplomatic and consular community.
The ceremonial program also featured remarks from Mark McGovern, Regional Director of the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Foreign Missions in New York; Dame Gloria Starr Kins, President and Founder of Society & Diplomatic Review; Mark Jaffe, President and CEO of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce; and Duvi Honig, Founder and CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce.
Tijana Ibrahimović served as Master of Ceremonies, with musical performances by Aleksandar Hadžijevski, Morena La Vecchia Galan, and Yevgeniy Dyo.
Building Connections Beyond Borders
In a message shared with members following the gathering, Ambassador Božović expressed his appreciation for the enthusiastic participation and constructive exchange of ideas throughout the evening.
He emphasized the importance of continued involvement, welcoming suggestions, new initiatives, and constructive feedback as the Society moves forward under his presidency.
Beyond the formal proceedings, the gathering offered an opportunity for diplomats, institutional representatives, and business leaders to strengthen existing relationships and establish new connections.
As the Society of Foreign Consuls enters its second century, the October 28 gathering reflected a renewed commitment to cultural understanding, economic opportunity, and the enduring value of bringing people together across borders.
For more information about the Society and its initiatives, visit sofcny.com.
