The 2026 District 5030 Conference in Walla Walla brought together the very best of Rotary—connection, inspiration, fellowship, and a shared commitment to service.
Set against the welcoming charm of Walla Walla, this year’s “Ignite Rotary” theme came to life through meaningful conversations, engaging breakout sessions, vibrant fellowship, and powerful storytelling. As a member of the conference committee and your District Public Image Chair, it was especially rewarding to witness the collaboration, creativity, and energy that made the conference experience so memorable for attendees throughout the district.
A highlight of the weekend was the ceremonial District Governor banner transition from current District Governor Jeff Borek to incoming District Governor Patricia Chapman, who officially assumes leadership of District 5030 on July 1, 2026. The banner passing symbolized continuity in leadership while also celebrating the excitement, vision, and momentum guiding our district into the upcoming Rotary year.
Attendees were inspired by keynote speakers and breakout sessions that encouraged us to think even bigger about our impact and how we share it. One message resonated throughout the weekend: Rotary’s story grows stronger every time we share it. Through service projects, club fellowship, youth programs, and community partnerships, every Rotarian plays an important role in elevating Rotary’s visibility and impact.
From a Public Image perspective, one standout resource was the conference photo-sharing platform, Ignite Rotary 2026 Photo Gallery, which allowed attendees to capture and share conference moments in real time while extending the energy and spirit of the event far beyond the weekend itself.
This successful event was made possible through the dedication and leadership of our conference committee, led by co-directors Tom Leonidas and Julie Shott, alongside Beverly Jacobson, Kaj Pederson, Alan Merry, Ann Liberato, Cathy Gibson, Christina Leonidas, Era Teshome, Jeff Borek, Jim Pullin, Josh Sutton, Kate Matos, Paula Del Guidice, Shari Storm, Stacie Thorlakson, Tim Leahy, Jason Richert, and Patricia Chapman. A special thank you also goes to Myung Hong and Mary Humann for capturing photos that helped tell the story of Ignite Rotary throughout the weekend.
As Rotarians departed Walla Walla, they carried home more than conference memories—they carried renewed energy, inspiration, and purpose. The fellowship and ideas shared throughout the weekend reflected Rotary’s greatest strength: its people. As District 5030 prepares for a new Rotary year under Patricia Chapman’s leadership, we look forward to continuing to build connections, elevate stories of service, and inspire future leaders to join us in creating lasting change. Together, we are igniting Rotary and shaping an even brighter future for our communities and our district.
