Roswell Rotary Family, I cannot wait to see you this Thursday, July 9, as we officially kick off the 2026–2027 Rotary year together. I’ll be sharing my vision for our club and how we will align with Rotary International President Yinka Babalola’s theme, Create Lasting Impact, and District Governor Cynthia Edwards’ focus on Peace through Education, Culture, and Economics. My hope is that you leave Thursday’s meeting not only informed, but energized about the year ahead and the role each of you will play in it.

Our club’s theme for the year is Strengthening Connections, and on Thursday I’ll unveil a new Strengthening Connections Challenge designed to invite every member into small but meaningful acts of connection each week. We’ll talk about how coffee with a fellow Rotarian, a note of gratitude to a first responder, or a simple visit to a Roswell park can help weave a stronger fabric in our club and in our community. As Sean Stephenson reminds us, “Communication is merely an exchange of information, but connection is an exchange of our humanity,” and that spirit sits at the heart of our plan for the year.

I firmly believe that the lasting impact we create as Rotarians begins with the way we connect with one another and with those we serve. Brené Brown puts it this way: “I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued.” This Thursday, I’ll share how we intend to cultivate that energy in everything from our major events to our weekly challenges. I hope you’ll join us, bring a guest, and come ready to lean into a year of deeper connection, joyful fellowship, and impactful service.

Together in Service,

Leslie