THE SAN FRANCISCO
OFFICE OF PROTOCOL
San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Protocol:
A Legacy of Diplomacy, Culture, and Global Connection
Founded in 1951, the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Protocol holds the honor of being 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.
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 countless foreign dignitaries, heads of state, and royalty, orchestrating memorable visits that strengthen relationships between nations and highlight the city's role on the international stage.
Memorable Milestones Led by the Office of Protocol
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 while hosting world leaders.
Through these events, the office provides visiting dignitaries and foreign officials with the best that San Francisco has to offer. From attending performances at the Opera and Symphony to enjoying Warriors and Giants games, to exploring the city's culinary treasures and cutting-edge technology hubs, each visitor leaves with an experience that reflects the richness, diversity, and vibrancy of San Francisco.
A Legacy of Leadership:
Cyril Magnin, Charlotte Shultz, 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. This early chief, beloved for his deep passion for the role, set the tone for what the office would become—an essential part of the city’s identity, welcoming foreign dignitaries and fostering cultural connections. Even as health challenges limited his later participation, his dedication remained steadfast, inspiring the future of the office.
His deputy, Charlotte Shultz, 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. She led the planning and execution of some of the city's most memorable events, including the restoration ceremonies for San Francisco City Hall and the Opera House, which showcased the city’s beauty and historical significance. Known for her ability to blend elegance with diplomacy, Shultz had an unmatched talent for connecting people, cultures, and traditions. She ensured that each foreign visitor experienced the best of San Francisco—whether through civic events, cultural performances, or tours of the city's landmarks. Under her leadership, the Office of Protocol became a symbol of the city’s civic pride and global outreach.
Following Shultz's passing, Maryam Muduroglu was appointed as Chief of Protocol in 2022, entrusted with carrying forward this prestigious legacy. Muduroglu embraced the office’s longstanding traditions while modernizing its mission for a new era of diplomacy. Her leadership focused on strengthening international partnerships and expanding cultural diplomacy initiatives to reflect the city’s diversity and innovation.
The Mayor’s Office of Protocol has now welcomed Penny Coulter as Chief of Protocol. Penny will continue the legacy and ensure that San Francisco remains a thriving hub for global cooperation and a destination that bridges cultures from around the world.