Hometown Diplomat David Schnier, a native of Santa Barbara, California, returned home for a 3-day program, during which he participated in an all-day event at his high school alma mater, a reception hosted by a local civic group, and a meeting with Santa Barbara County officials. At each event, Mr. Schnier spoke about the mission and activities of the Department, the importance of a career in international affairs, and his recently completed 2-year tour of duty in Ghana, where he served a year as a consular officer helping U.S. citizens traveling and working abroad. During his visit to his former high school, David encouraged students to cultivate a worldview, noting, "Keeping on top of what's happening in the world builds knowledge in ways you wouldn't realize.
Of his experience, David remarked that, "Students and teachers alike were awed by the range of duties the State Department performs and the significance of the Department's work to their lives." Following his visit, the school released an article for its Web site and quarterly magazine, reflecting the pride the community of Santa Barbara has for its very own "Hometown Diplomat."
