We are pleased to announce that Raymond Connell, has been selected as our DGND by the nominating committee. Raymond is a lawyer and the Jamaican Honorary Consul to Seattle. He was also the president of University District Rotary Club. Raymond comes with valuable life experiences that will help him focus on areas to diversify our membership, develop the role of AGs to support leadership development in support of our clubs, expand our storytelling to increase membership and support the magic of our Rotary Foundation to increase our clubs support for its funding across the district.
When responding to the question about “Why” he wanted to be district governor, Ray’s response was:
I had a successful year as President of UDRC, and I have the energy, support, and desire to do even more on a District level. As DG I would emphasize the following:
- Diversity Equity & Inclusion (DEI);
- Assistant Governors (AG);
- Membership;
- Foundation; and
- International Projects
My life experiences and professional training make me qualified to emphasize DEI. Membership could be more diverse. My work with the Southeast Rotary Club would be an example of my work in DEI. The resources are vast and should be brought into the ‘tent.’
The selection of AGs is vital to the success of the District. AG would stress leadership training, which would benefit struggling clubs—ensuring that AGs are placed in the appropriate clubs that match their skill set. As DG I would support clubs’ presidents.
We could increase membership through the personal stories of our existing members.
The Foundation is the lifeblood of Rotary. There should be ongoing training and emphasis at the club level to increase Foundation funding.
International projects are the Essence of Rotary.
Please welcome Raymond Connell as our DGND 2026-27 for 5030!
