A Message from 2026-2027 District Governor, Amy Chinnery-Valmassei

Happy New Rotary Year, District 6040!

Yes... we Rotarians get to celebrate two New Years every year!

Today marks the beginning of a brand-new Rotary year. New presidents are ringing bells, new officers are stepping into leadership, and clubs across our district are already looking for ways to make a difference in their communities.

As we kick off the new Rotary year, here are three ideas I'd love for us to keep in mind.

Do Better Than Your Best

Rotary International President Yinka challenged us with these words, and they've really stuck with me. To me, it isn't about comparing our club to another club. It's about asking, What's our next step? How can we build on what we've already accomplished? Every club has room to grow, and every club's next step will look a little different.

Connection Creates Impact

This has become my theme for the year because I believe it's at the heart of Rotary. Every member joins because someone made a connection. Every service project begins with people coming together. Every partnership, every friendship, every new idea starts with a conversation. The stronger our connections, the greater our impact.

Create Lasting Impact

The work we do matters. Sometimes we see the results immediately. Other times, we never know just how far a kind word, a scholarship, a service project, or an invitation to Rotary will reach. Together, we're creating something that lasts—not just for today, but for generations to come.

Over the coming year, I look forward to visiting each of the District 6040 clubs, celebrating what makes your club unique, and learning alongside you. I know I'll leave every visit inspired by the incredible people who make District 6040 such a special place.

Thank you for everything you do for Rotary, for your communities, and for one another.

Here's to a wonderful year of serving, growing, connecting... and Creating Lasting Impact.

Amy Chinnery-Valmassei
District Governor 2026–2027
Rotary District 6040

P.S. If you like someone, invite them to Rotary! Whether it's to a service project, a social event, or a meeting, your invitation might be the connection that changes their life—and strengthens Rotary