The House Appropriations Committee took advice at a hearing Thursday on how to improve diversity and inclusion at the State Department.
- Harry Thomas, former Ambassador to Zimbabwe who testified at this hearing, suggested a formal mentorship program to support Foreign Service Officers early in their careers.
- The State Department should provide everyone with the opportunity to serve around the world, ensure a fair process for choosing ambassadors and support diverse and inclusive promotion panels, said Thomas.
- Thomas said the department can make substantial progress by this fall when assignments come out.