Dear Fellow Rotarians,
Crisp mornings and vibrant leaves signal that fall has arrived, a season of change and fresh beginnings across our communities. Fall brings renewed focus, energy, and opportunities for connection. It’s a time to gather, reflect, and prepare for the remaining year ahead while celebrating the beauty of the Pacific Northwest in transition.
For Rotary District 5030, this season is about harnessing that spirit of change to deepen service and fellowship. Clubs are launching new projects, welcoming new members, and embracing innovative ways to make an impact. Just as fall brings growth in unexpected ways, our district is finding fresh momentum to support communities locally and globally with renewed leadership.
Representing the entire District leadership team, I am pleased to share exciting updates about a new addition and other District Governor lineup changes.
New District Governor Designate
I am pleased to announce that the Nominating Committee has selected the newest member of the District Governor line for Rotary District 5030: Jemal Idris, a distinguished leader from the Bellevue Rotary Club. He becomes the District Governor Designate (DGD) and will serve as the District Governor for the 2028–29 Rotary year.
Jemal has been a dedicated Rotarian since 2010 and has made significant contributions to our district and beyond. He served as President of the Bellevue Rotary Club during the 2023–2024 Rotary year and currently serves as Assistant Governor, where he mentors club presidents and strengthens district initiatives. Professionally, Jemal is an executive consultant and international trade strategist with more than 35 years of experience advancing U.S. exports across five continents.
New 5030 Vice Governor
The Nominating Committee also selected the Immediate Past District Governor Rachele Bouchand to serve as the Vice Governor for the 2026-27 Rotary year, providing leadership continuity, support and assistance for the current District Governor when needed.
Change In DG Elect and DG Nominee Lineup
Adjustments have been made to the sequence of our District Governor succession to best support personal circumstances while maintaining stability in our leadership progression.
Patricia Chapman will now serve as District Governor in 2026–27, becoming our District Governor-Elect (DGE). Raymond Connell will serve as District Governor in 2027–28, becoming our District Governor-Nominee (DGN).
Finally, I also want to recognize Past District Governor Kaj Pedersen who is acting as the current Vice District Governor and led the fine work of the Nominating Committee this cycle.
Please join me in congratulating Jemal Idris, and thanking Rachele Bouchand Patricia Chapman, Ray Connell, and Kaj Pedersen as they continue their service to all the clubs of District 5030 in these important leadership roles.
Yours in Rotary service,
