Ambassador Virginia “Ginny” E. Palmer is a seasoned career diplomat with over three decades of distinguished service in the United States Foreign Service. She most recently served as the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana from May 2022 to May 2025, where she led strategic engagements that deepened bilateral ties, promoted democratic governance, and expanded economic partnerships between the United States and Ghana.
Ambassador Palmer’s diplomatic journey began in 1986 and has since spanned continents, with postings in Asia, Africa, and North America. Her extensive field experience includes key roles in Beijing, Zimbabwe, Hong Kong, Kenya, Vietnam, and Canada. She is widely recognized for her expertise in political and economic policy, energy diplomacy, counterterrorism, and development.
Before her appointment to Ghana, Ambassador Palmer served as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of Energy Resources at the U.S. Department of State, where she shaped U.S. energy diplomacy globally and contributed to the strategic rollout of clean energy solutions. She also served as U.S. Ambassador to Malawi (2015–2019), where she was celebrated for advancing human rights and championing good governance.
In Ghana, she led the U.S. Mission during a transformative period, guiding programs in education, security cooperation, civil society strengthening, and climate resilience. Under her leadership, the embassy deepened collaboration with Ghanaian institutions, civil society groups, and youth organizations to support inclusive development and promote mutual prosperity.
Ambassador Palmer holds a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service from Georgetown University and a Master of Arts in International Relations from the University of Virginia. She is fluent in French and Mandarin Chinese, reflecting her deep commitment to cross-cultural communication and diplomacy.
Known for her strategic insight, principled leadership, and deep respect for local cultures, Ambassador Palmer is also a compelling public speaker who brings a wealth of experience in foreign policy, multilateral negotiations, and international cooperation.