Ashley Profaizer, special assistant to Secretary of State Colin Powell, spoke Thursday evening how the U.S. State Department plays an active role in foreign policy.

She began her speech describing the morning of Sep. 11, 2001, as “a beautiful, sunny morning.”

She was on her way to work in Washington, D.C. with her husband as she heard reports of Tower One of the World Trade Center hit by a hijacked airplane.

Moments later, they saw the unexpected happen.

“We watched helplessly as American Airlines flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon,” Profaizer said.

The State Department’s role changed in a post-Sep. 11th world.

“In the wake of 9/11, the State Department has fought to combat terrorism,” Profaizer said.

The State Department works closely with allies around the globe.

“We have been working with our allies and our friends to promote peace in the farthest regions of the world,” Profazier said.

She addressed the State Department’s role in working with Pakistan and India.

“We are actively engaged in working on a daily basis with these countries,” she said.

She said Powell’s job is unquestionably demanding.

“He is fully engaged wherever he happens to be.”

Policies outlined by Bush, such as HIV/AIDS has won “worldwide support” Profaizer said.

Profaizer worked as a vice counsel at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City.

“Counsel officers work on behalf of U.S. citizens,” Profaizer said.

Distribution of visas in a post-Sep. 11th world is a treasure to many, adding the United States keeps its borders under strict control, but there is an “open door to visitors.”

She also added the United States works on a daily basis to promote democratic values throughout the world.

“We strive for prosperity and the security of freedom,” she said. “We must deal with Iraq.”