EX- SENIOR WATCH OFFICER : New US Chargé Tarapacki reads to students at the American Corner Apia.
Apia, Samoa – New US Embassy Charge’ d’Affairs takes over in his diplomatic posting in Samoa after serving as a Senior Watch Officer in the Department of State’s Operations Center
Mr. Daniel Tarapacki, officially began his role in Apia on August 21.
His arrival coincided with historic events, including the ordination of the new Archbishop for the Catholic Church of Samoa, Father Mosese Tui and the centenary celebration of Lakapi Samoa, marking a significant moment in the community.
“Dan comes to us with a wealth of experience and a demonstrated commitment to community development and global diplomacy,” a statement from the US Apia Embassy announced.
In his previous role as Senior Watch Officer, he worked 12 hour shifts, rotating between days and nights responding to crises around the globe.
He worked in the Office of the Secretary of State, overseeing a team responsible for supporting the Secretary’s phone diplomacy and briefing senior officials on breaking events.
Prior to joining the Operations Center, he was a Post Management Officer in the joint Executive Office for the Bureaus of European and Eurasian Affairs and International Organization Affairs.
In a previous Washington assignment, through his position as an instructor at the Department of State’s premier training facility, the Foreign Service Institute, he prepared hundreds of U.S. Diplomats and Locally Employed Staff for their positions working in Embassies overseas.
He has served overseas in Myanmar, Australia, and Saudi Arabia and believes in the power of collaboration and cultural exchange to address pressing issues and uplift communities.
His vision aligns with Samoa’s dedication to progress while respecting Samoa’s rich traditions.
“I am honored to take up this role and look forward to working closely with the people of Samoa,” said Chargé Tarapacki.
“Being present for the ordination of Archbishop Mosese Tui and the celebration centenary was an inspiring way to begin my journey in Samoa.
“ I am excited to build upon the strong foundations laid by my predecessors and to engage with local partners in our shared mission of promoting sustainable development, respecting cultural heritage, and creating opportunities for all.”
Tarapacki grew up in the village of East Aurora, New York. He was the first in his family to attend university.
He enjoys learning foreign languages, which is one of the many reasons why being a diplomat was his dream job.