From Rotary leadership and youth programs to accessibility, literacy, storytelling, and special tasting experiences, the workshop schedule is designed to give attendees useful takeaways and engaging moments throughout the conference weekend.
Workshop sessions are organized across four conference blocks. Most are included with conference registration, while the final Saturday block features premium experiences and guided tours.
Most workshop sessions are included with conference registration. The Saturday tastings and tour are part of the premium experiences.
Friday, 9:00 AM–9:45 AM
Marc Hudson
A practical conversation for clubs interested in district grants, with emphasis on how projects are selected, shaped, and positioned for success. This session is designed to help attendees move from “we should do a grant” to a more confident idea of what that project could be.
Milton Carter
Learn how the Coins for Alzheimer’s Research Trust turns small, collective giving into meaningful research support. This session introduces the mission of CART, its Rotary connection, and the real difference clubs can make through focused participation.
Randy Doyle
A look at a Rotary-led literacy partnership responding to early reading challenges in Shenandoah County. The session highlights how clubs, schools, and community volunteers can work together to build a stronger county-wide support system for young readers.
Mary Ellen Miller
Discover how stronger storytelling can expand your club’s reach on social and traditional media. Drawing on public relations and public image leadership, this session focuses on practical ways to communicate Rotary impact and grow engagement.
Burt Duren
Explore how Friendship Exchanges build peace and goodwill through personal connection, travel, and hosting. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of how exchanges work and how clubs can promote greater participation.
Friday, 10:15 AM–11:00 AM
Laurie Menzel
An overview of Rotary Foundation opportunities and giving strategies, with attention to how charitable tools such as stock, retirement assets, and donor-advised funds can support long-term philanthropic impact.
Woody Sadler
Learn about the district’s wheelchair initiative, how it works, who it serves, and how clubs can become part of a project that has already delivered thousands of wheelchairs through Rotary’s international service network.
Michael Williams
A wide-ranging session on Rotary youth engagement, from EarlyAct and Interact to RYLA, Youth Exchange, and youth protection. Ideal for clubs ready to begin or strengthen youth programming.
Phil Mauger
A real-world look at how one club turned around fundraising struggles, burnout, and leadership challenges through a structured annual sponsorship program, impact reporting, and clearer community-facing communications.
The Multi-Purpose Room is reserved for lunch setup during this block rather than a workshop session.
Saturday, 1:30 PM–2:15 PM
Paula Alston
An informal and encouraging look at what district leadership really involves. Rotarians considering the District Governor role will hear about responsibilities, expectations, training, and lived experience from seasoned Rotary leaders.
John Elrick
A Rotary-centered exploration of artificial intelligence, workforce change, adult technological literacy, and community readiness. This session asks how Rotary can help communities navigate the digital changes already reshaping everyday life.
Cary Simms
An overview of the District 7570 Youth Exchange program, including host club expectations, support practices, and ways clubs can create strong and meaningful exchange experiences for students and families.
Gayl Brunk
A thoughtful and practical session on accessibility, belonging, and ADA-informed leadership. Attendees will consider how clubs and organizations can go beyond minimum compliance to create more welcoming environments.
Sean Sawyer
A membership-focused conversation led by an experienced Rotary leader with deep service across club, district, zone, and international settings. This session is positioned to help clubs think more strategically about engagement, leadership development, and growth.
Saturday, 2:30 PM–3:30 PM
