Historic Legacy

of

The Office of Protocol

The San Francisco Office of Protocol:
A Legacy of Diplomacy, Culture, and Global Connection

Founded in 1951, the San Francisco Office of Protocol was the first municipal protocol office in the United States, reflecting the city’s forward-thinking leadership in diplomacy. It was established under Mayor Elmer E. Robinson to meet the city’s growing ceremonial and diplomatic needs in a post-World War II world. With San Francisco emerging as a global hub for international trade, diplomacy, and innovation, the creation of the Office of Protocol laid the foundation for fostering cross-cultural exchanges that continue to shape the city’s identity to this day.

Early Origins

The office's origins trace back to the historic signing of the United Nations Charter in 1945, hosted in San Francisco. This monumental event brought representatives from 50 nations to the city, signaling San Francisco as a stage for diplomacy and global cooperation. Since then, the office has welcomed numerous foreign dignitaries, heads of state, and royalty, orchestrating memorable visits that strengthen relationships between nations and heighten the city's role on the international stage.

Led by the Office of Protocol

Memorable Milestones

The 1983 State Visit of Queen Elizabeth II solidified cultural ties between the U.S. and the U.K.

Pope John Paul II’s 1987 historic visit engaged both religious and civic communities.

The United Nations 50th Anniversary Celebration in 1995 reaffirmed San Francisco’s symbolic importance in global diplomacy.

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in 2023, a large-scale diplomatic event that showcased the city's innovative spirit and economic leadership.

A Legacy of Leadership:

Cyril Magnin, Charlotte Shultz, Richard Goldman, Maryam Muduroglu, and Penny Coulter

  • The Mayor’s Office of Protocol owes its global reputation to the visionary leadership of those who shaped it over decades. Beginning with Cyril Magnin in 1964, he set the tone for what the office would become—an essential part of the city’s identity, welcoming foreign dignitaries and fostering cultural connections.

    His deputy, Charlotte Shultz, then took up the mantle, carrying forward his legacy with extraordinary grace and skill. Over five decades, Shultz became synonymous with San Francisco’s diplomatic and cultural outreach, serving under ten mayors. Under her leadership, the Office of Protocol became a symbol of the city’s civic pride and global outreach.

    Under Mayor Frank Jordan, Richard Goldman led the Office of Protocol, combining his passion for connecting people, international diplomacy and his devotion to San Francisco.

    Charlotte Schultz resumed the role under Mayor Willie Brown, continuing her dedicated service to the city. After her passing, Maryam Muduroglu was appointed to the position in 2022, entrusted with honoring and advancing this prestigious legacy.

    In 2025, Penny Coulter assumed the role of Chief of Protocol, continuing the distinguished work of the office. Under her leadership, the office will continue to ensure San Francisco remains a vibrant hub for global engagement.