There's a moment in every Rotarian's life when service stops being something you do and becomes something you are. For me, that moment has roots stretching back nearly half a century.

You could say my preparation for this role started 47 years ago ---  not 37 when I joined the Westford Rotary Club --- but when I went to a Rotary meeting as a student of the month and was told I couldn't join because I was a woman. I'm here today as your incoming District Governor because a woman named Sylvia Whitlock sued Rotary International for the right to membership, a case that traveled all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. I mention it not to be political, but because it shows that one person can make a huge difference. Can you imagine a Rotary without women?

By Friday afternoon, they arrived carrying sleeping bags, duffel bags, and perhaps a little bit of nervousness.

By Sunday afternoon, they left carrying something far more valuable: confidence, friendships, memories, and a newfound understanding of their own leadership potential.

From June 26-28, nearly 200 students from across Rotary District 7910 gathered at Fitchburg State University for the 2026 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), joining approximately 70 dedicated volunteers for what many participants, parents, and facilitators proudly declared to be the "Best RYLA Ever."

For one remarkable weekend, the campus transformed into a living laboratory of leadership, teamwork, self-discovery, and belonging. Students who had never met before quickly became teammates, confidants, and friends as they immersed themselves in a high-energy experience designed to challenge them, inspire them, and empower them.

The weekend began with excitement and anticipation as RYLANs met their Group Facilitators (GFs), Program Facilitators (PFs), and the incredible Core team that had spent months planning every detail of the experience. What followed was a whirlwind of activities that pushed participants beyond their comfort zones and encouraged them to discover strengths they never knew they possessed.

Have you thought about getting involved at the District level? As we begin the new Rotary year, there are several positions available on District Committees that you could get involved in! They include committees like Membership, Public Image, District Conference, New District Creation, and a few more! 

Contact Penny Hamel DG 26-27, to volunteer or if you would like more info. PennyMooreHamel@gmail.com 

Do you struggle with the Rotary International Foundation website?  Learn how to navigate the site, find the correct forms to make a donation or transfer points and how to run points.  Training to be held by Zoom.  July 30th, 7 PM.  Click on rest of story for Zoom Link.