The two great Rotary leaders, Mário César Martins de Camargo and his successor and new Rotary International President Francesco Arezzo, who ushered us toward the 2025-26 Rotary year and its’ message “Unite for Good” have both spoken of connection as the key to making an impact. De Camargo shared his vision through the inspirational words “that while individuals can achieve great things alone, working together through partnerships and connections allows for even greater impact” and emphasized “the importance of creating welcoming and engaging clubs where all members feel a sense of belonging.”    Our new RI President Arezzo embraced De Camargo’s sentiments and hopes this is a year of “meaningful connection, shared purpose and lasting impact.” I was so excited to read their words because way back when I was at PETS as the President Nominee, we were asked to jot a few ideas down about our hopes for our year as president. The first word that sprung to mind that I wrote down was connection and under it connect with one another, connect to our community, connect resources to those in need and connect members with their own gifts, skills and passion. We are all a part of Rotary because we believe in helping and empowering others and we want to be part of an organization that values its members and their unique attributes and gifts, works to make our community and this world better, kinder, more compassionate places. We want to gather with one another to laugh, break bread, connect, support each other and do great things for others together. I feel so blessed and grateful to be a part of Denver/Lake Norman Rotary and to learn from you all, and to be inspired by your hearts, wisdom and care for the citizens of the world, near and far, from the smallest and youngest right here in our community to those from different cultures a hemisphere away. I am so lucky to follow Past Presidents Andie and Craig and to have been guided by their knowledge, hearts and leadership and the foundation they have created. I am ecstatic to work with and learn from President Elect Ross, our leadership team and be inspired by each and every one of you to unite for good and have a great time together in the process. Thank you so much for being the unique and wonderful individuals you are and part of our Rotary and I can’t wait to see what great and impactful things we do together.

Trudie