Sylvia Stanfield facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sylvia Gaye Stanfield
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Ambassador Sylvia Stanfield
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| United States Ambassador to Brunei | |
| In office 1999–2002 |
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| Born | 1943 Texas, United States |
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| Occupation | Diplomat |
Sylvia Gaye Stanfield (born 1943) is an American woman who worked as a diplomat. She held many important roles in the diplomatic service. She made history as the first African-American woman to become an Ambassador for the United States. She served as the Ambassador to Brunei from 1999 to 2002.
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Early Life and Education
Sylvia Stanfield was born in Texas, United States, in 1943. She went to James Madison High School in Dallas. Later, a science classroom at her old high school was named after her and her twin sister, Eunice Stanfield.
After high school, Sylvia attended Western College for Women in Oxford, Ohio. She earned a bachelor's degree in intercultural studies. This type of study helps people understand different cultures. While in college, she also traveled to Europe and the Middle East as part of her studies.
A Career in Diplomacy
Sylvia Stanfield started working for the U.S. State Department in 1968. This department helps manage America's relationships with other countries. She worked in many different roles that focused on politics and economics around the world.
Working Around the World
Her early career took her to several places:
- She worked at the American embassy in Taipei, Taiwan.
- She also served at the American Institute in Taiwan.
- She worked at the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong.
- She was part of the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, China.
Leadership Roles
Before becoming an ambassador, Sylvia Stanfield held other important leadership positions:
- She was a Chargé d'Affaires ad interim (a temporary head of an embassy) in New Zealand.
- She also served as the Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Wellington, New Zealand. This was her highest role before becoming an ambassador.
Ambassador to Brunei
From 1999 to 2002, Sylvia Stanfield served as the United States Ambassador to Brunei. This was a very important role where she represented the United States in that country.
After Her Ambassadorship
After her time as an ambassador, Stanfield continued to share her knowledge. She became a "Diplomat in Residence" at two universities:
- Florida A&M University (from 2003 to 2005).
- Spelman College.
In these roles, she helped students learn about diplomacy and international relations.
