Fellowship is the Foundation

As this Rotary year draws to a close, I find myself thinking back, and savoring the memories — not just on what we’ve accomplished, but on who we’ve become together.

Serving as District Governor for Rotary District 5230 has been one of the greatest honors of my life. It has also been deeply humbling. I’ve traveled our incredible District and seen first-hand the power of Rotary in action: service projects that meet real needs, fundraisers that bring communities together, and Rotarians who live out “Service Above Self” with grit, grace, and joy.

But more than anything, this year has reminded me that Fellowship isn’t just a theme for the month of June—it’s the thread that weaves through every act of service, every club meeting, every shared laugh over a lunch table. Rotary is a global network, yes, but it’s also a family. And this year, I felt it. I felt it when I watched new members be welcomed with open arms, when Clubs collaborated across city lines to serve, and when we lifted each other through loss, challenges, and change.

We’ve achieved so much together—new members, vibrant projects, and a stronger District presence in our communities. I’ve seen our clubs grow not only in size but in heart, in creativity, and in community impact. And the stories—my goodness, the stories I will carry with me! You’ve inspired me beyond measure.

To each of you: thank you. Thank you for your trust, your passion, your optimism, and your belief in what Rotary can be. You have made this year unforgettable.

To my Rotary mentors and friends—thank you for walking this road with me, for offering your wisdom when I needed guidance, your laughter when I needed perspective, and your steady presence through every high and low. You reminded me that no one leads alone—and that the best leaders are really just good listeners surrounded by great people.

To my husband, Rudy, and our son, Stanton— thank you for your endless encouragement, your patience, and your love. You were with me in every handshake, every early morning, every mile on the road. I share every bit of this experience with you, and I could not have done it without you.

I also want to take a moment to extend my heartfelt congratulations and full support to our new District Governor, Brinet Greenlee. Brinet, I’m so excited for what lies ahead for you and for our District under your leadership. You bring a heart for service and a clear vision for the future, and I know you’re going to shine. Just know—I’m here for you. We all are. You’ve got this. You are exactly the right leader at the right time.

Though my term as District Governor is coming to a close, I’m not going anywhere. I’m excited to continue serving Rotary at the next level, supporting our District, and helping the next generation of leaders step forward with courage and conviction. We’re just getting started.

Fellowship brought us together. Service gave us purpose. And Rotary will always be our shared home.

With gratitude and Rotary love,

DG Mike