have dreams and that you hope to
achieve those dreams. The fact is that a
lot of people go through life doing what
is safe and not allowing themselves the
emotional commitment to a dream.
It takes courage – a lot of courage –
to keep on renewing your commitment
to a dream.
Melissa Wells, speaking to the graduating
class of Georgetown University School
of Foreign Service, May 1991
In loving memory of Ambassador Melissa F. Wells — this space honors her voice, her vision, and her lifelong commitment to diplomacy and humanity.
A Life Dedicated to Diplomacy and Humanity – and an Inspiration to the Young
Melissa Foelsch Wells was a distinguished American diplomat whose career spanned four decades, with postings in nine countries, as well as key roles in the United Nations focusing on emergency relief, disability prevention and budget management.
Born in Estonia, she emigrated to the United States as a child. She had a difficult childhood and adolescence but overcame these and other challenges to lead a full life that became a role model for women.
Fluent in six languages, Melissa excelled in international diplomacy and global cooperation, married diplomat Alfred Washburn Wells, and had two sons and three grandchildren.
After retiring, she lived in Spain and the United States, leaving a legacy of dedication to public service and fostering international relations.
“I hope that in your life at this time you have dreams and that you hope to achieve those dreams. The fact is that a lot of people go through life doing what is safe and not allowing themselves the emotional commitment to a dream. It takes courage – a lot of courage – to keep on renewing your commitment to a dream.”