One of the greatest joys of serving as District Governor is witnessing the extraordinary impact our members make every day. Throughout the 2025-2026 Rotary year, District 7910 Rotarians have exemplified Rotary's values through service, leadership, generosity, and dedication to improving lives both locally and around the world.
This year, our district was honored with several prestigious Rotary International recognitions. Past District Governor Ralph Hammond of Bedford received both Rotary International's Service Above Self Award and the Avenues of Service Award, reflecting decades of exceptional commitment to Rotary. Past District Governor Klaus Hachfeld of Sturbridge was recognized with The Rotary Foundation's Distinguished Service Award, while Past District Governor Richard Manelis of Framingham received the Citation for Meritorious Service. Patricia "Patti" Gauvin of Fitchburg was honored with Rotary's Excellence in Service to Humanity Award, recognizing her outstanding dedication to serving others.
At the district level, we proudly recognized outstanding leaders who have gone above and beyond in advancing Rotary's mission. Congratulations to Sharon Spaulding (Concord), Assistant Governor of the Year; Carol Courville Brigley (Athol-Orange), Rotarian of the Year; Patricia "Patti" Gauvin (Fitchburg), Spouse of the Year; and Past District Governor Jim Fusco (Montachusett Area), recipient of the Governor's Distinguished Service Award.
Our clubs also demonstrated excellence throughout the year. Congratulations to the Rotary Club of Bedford, recipient of the Gold Club of the Year Award; the Rotary Club of Concord, recipient of the Silver Award; and the Blackstone Valley Rotary Club, recipient of the Bronze Award. These clubs exemplify what can be accomplished when members unite around service, fellowship, and community impact.
District 7910 also recognized numerous members whose contributions have strengthened Rotary and their communities:
- Leanne Barkhouse (Ayer Area) – Youth Impact Leadership Award
- Richard Traina (Wachusett Area) – Unite for Good Award
- Joan Pena (Ayer Area) – Youth Impact Leadership Award
- Doreen Quintiliani (Ayer Area) – Youth Impact Leadership Award
- Heidi Bogner (Fitchburg) – The Guiding Compass Award
- Maureen Masciolla (Acton-Boxborough) – Spirit of Rotary Award
- Richard Segan (Brookline) – Significant Service Award
- Eric Hammond (Westborough) – Service Above Self Award
- Diane Padula (Franklin) – People of Action Award
- Brooke Charon (Ayer Area) – People of Action Award
- Sarah Chandler (Wachusett Area) – Partners in Service Award
- Art Dobson (Shrewsbury) – Lifetime Legacy Award
- Marvin Gould (Acton-Boxborough) – Legacy of Service Award
- Liz Tavares (Newton) – District Unsung Hero Award
- Kristin Bradley (Westborough) – Changemaker Award
- Melinda Gladden (Bedford) – Community Impact Award
- Assistant Governor Sandra Coker (Blackstone Valley) – Certificate of Appreciation
- Assistant Governor Mark Messina (Weston & Wayland) – Certificate of Appreciation
These awards represent more than individual achievement. They reflect thousands of volunteer hours, countless acts of kindness, innovative community projects, leadership development, youth mentorship, international service, and unwavering dedication to Rotary's mission.
To every recipient, nominee, club leader, and volunteer across District 7910: thank you. Your commitment to Service Above Self inspires us all and demonstrates the incredible difference Rotary can make when we work together.
Congratulations to all of our 2025-2026 honorees. You have truly helped our district live this year's theme—Unite for Good.
Johnny Ahern
District Governor 2025-2026