Stepping into the Pacific Northwest President-Elect Learning Seminar (PNW PELS) for the first time was both exhilarating and a bit overwhelming. As a first-time attendee, yet as the current president of newly chartered Eastside Action Rotary Club (EARC) and president-elect for the 2025-2026 term, this seminar was pivotal in shaping my leadership journey.
I wasn’t sure what to expect, but from the moment I arrived, I could feel the energy, camaraderie, and deep sense of purpose that filled the room.
The weekend was a whirlwind of learning, networking, and inspiration. Seasoned Rotarians and new leaders alike gathered with one shared goal—to prepare for the year ahead with confidence and vision. The lineup of speakers was truly inspiring, each bringing valuable insight into leadership, service, and the impact we can make in our communities.
A standout moment was meeting Mário César Martins de Camargo, the 2025-26 Rotary International President, and hearing his powerful message, “Unite for Good”! He made a special appearance during one of my sessions, Energizing our Rotary Club, sharing his insights, and later captivated the audience with his inspiring keynote speech during Friday night’s dinner. I was also fortunate to capture a memorable photo with myself, District Assistant Governor, Wendy Walker, RI President-Elect Mário César Martins de Camargo and Rotary Club of Enumclaw President-Elect, Amy Watanabe.
Beyond the structured sessions, the real magic happened in the conversations between events and at the Districts parties. Sitting down with fellow President-Elects from different clubs, I realized that while our communities may differ, the challenges and opportunities we face as Rotary leaders are strikingly similar. The exchange of ideas, best practices, and words of encouragement reinforced the idea that we are all in this together.
A heartfelt thank you to the many vendors who provided valuable knowledge and resources throughout the event, including Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA), ClubRunner, Our Mayberry – Impact Marketplace, Hunger Strike, ShelterBox, Professional Photographer, DACdb, The Rotary Foundation (TRF), Rotary Zone Resource Booth, Wheelchair Canadian Foundation, Epic Day of Service – Zones 26 & 27, My Custom Tailor, Russell Hampton Company, Baja Bridges, Rotary Action Group – Against Slavery, and The Alzheimer’s/Dementia Rotarian Action Group.
Additionally, the resource center provided tools and support to help strengthen our clubs.
Leaving PELS, I felt truly inspired to take on the role of President again. Above all, I developed an even deeper appreciation for the incredible impact of Rotary—how passionate individuals working together can drive meaningful and lasting change.
If you’ve never attended PNW PELS before, I highly encourage it. The experience is transformative, and the friendships and knowledge gained will carry you through the year ahead.
Cheers to a year filled with impactful service and inspiring leadership!
