I am deeply humbled, honored, and excited to officially begin my term as your District Governor. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported me along this journey—especially my family, my club members, and the incredible leaders who have mentored me along the way. As we step into this new year together, please allow me to share a bit of my Rotary journey, my "why," and the shared vision that will guide us.
My "Why": A Lifelong Journey My connection to Rotary runs deep. My father was a charter member of the Rotary Club of Nordonia Hills, and it was that very club that sponsored me as a Rotary Youth Exchange student to Australia. That life-changing experience opened my eyes to the world and taught me the power of cultural understanding and human connection. This jump-started my Rotary journey.
I joined Rotary to pursue a passion, but I have stayed in Rotary for 37 years because I see the lasting impact we have. From our global fight to eradicate polio to our local initiatives right here in our communities, we are living proof of Rotary's vision statement: together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change.
The Bedford Club Ribfest is a three-day community festival featuring award-winning BBQ, live musical entertainment, and family activities. Hosted by the Rotary Club of Bedford, the event serves as a major fundraiser to support local service projects and youth programs.
AKRON CLUB INSTALLS PRESIDENT, BOARD AND NEW HONORARY MEMBER
The Rotary Club of Akron officially began its new leadership term by installing Michael Gladysz as the Club President for the 2026–27 year alongside the incoming Board of Directors. During the ceremony, President Gladysz performed his first official induction by welcoming Cheryl "Cherie" Buchanan as the club's newest Honorary Rotarian. Buchanan, a retired registered nurse who has actively supported Rotary initiatives for over 40 years, was recognized for her exceptional service, which includes helping secure matching grants for the annual End Polio Now event.
The Lakewood and Rocky River Rotary clubs recently gathered to celebrate the official launch of their new joint venture. During the installation event, Assistant Governor Andrew Mangels was on hand to formally induct the new slate of club officers. The energetic evening marked a highly successful and positive start to the unified group's leadership term.
The Rotaract Passport Club of NEO's mission is to provide young professionals the opportunity to connect through service. We created this club because we know it's a challenge for our district, and many others, to retain alumni from Rotary Youth Programs and attract new young professionals to Rotary clubs given work demands, uncertain future locations, and busy schedules. Our members are past RYLA students, Interactors, Rotaractors, Rotarians and people completely new to Rotary! This club is the perfect fit for a young professional looking to make new friends and give back to the community.
If your Rotary club wants to support the Rotaract Passport Club, the best way to do so is to invite us to help with your projects and events! Our members are ready to help out. Please contact club president Lulu or club secretary Lizzie for more information. Or DM us on Instagram!
Vicious Biscuit
