Leaders from across Rotary District 5370 joined delegates from across North America at the 2026 Rotary Zone Institute (Zones 28 & 32, along with zones 25 A&B, 29) for an intensive week focused on strategic growth, public image, leadership development, and global impact.
The annual Institute brings together current, past, and incoming district leaders to align on Rotary International’s strategic priorities and share actionable strategies for local club and district success.
District 5370 Leadership in Action
District 5370 was strongly represented across all learning tracks and leadership sessions throughout the event:
District Governor Jeanette Bancarz helped lead the district delegation, engaging with regional leaders on district-wide communication and strengthening support systems for local clubs.
District Governor-Elect Andre Charrois and District Governor-Nominee Jody Swanson participated in executive leadership training, focusing on long-term district vision, club health, and innovative meeting models for modern membership.
Past District Governor Brent Collingwood served as a facilitator for the District Governor-Nominee training track, sharing expertise to help prepare incoming leaders from across the zones.
Lead Assistant Governor Myrna Findt represented Assistant Governors and club leadership, ensuring district strategies remain practical, accessible, and grounded in daily club operations.
Public Image Chair Maëlle Toews participated in the Public Image and Membership track, bringing back strategies on club storytelling, digital outreach, and aligning public image directly with member attraction and retention.
District Foundation Chair Libby Weir, alongside Major Donor representatives Sally & Tim Schilds, highlighted the critical role of The Rotary Foundation in driving local and international service projects.
Key Insights from Plenary Sessions
Throughout the plenary addresses, Rotary International leadership delivered powerful messages on vision, impact, and the future of the organization:
Driven by Impact & Fellowship
Rotary International President Yinka Babalola emphasized that membership remains the organization's top priority, reminding leaders that "Change is only the beginning. Impact is what endures." He urged delegates to "make Rotary’s impact undeniable and Rotary stories unforgettable," highlighting that fellowship remains at the heart of our mission:
"We are nothing without each other. Our organization was founded on fellowship. This is who we are."
Vision for Sustainable Growth
RI President-Elect Larry Lunsford challenged district leaders to look ahead four years, asking, "Where do you see your club in four years?" He emphasized that growth and quality are not in competition with each other, encouraging leaders to foster a shared desire to adapt and expand.
Evolving Club Models
Plenary discussions highlighted the expansion of new club models—including cause-based, interest-based, and culture-focused clubs—shifting the community engagement dynamic to
“Stop doing to, stop doing for, and start doing with.”
Progress on Polio Eradication
RIPE Larry Lunsford provided an encouraging update on global polio eradication, noting that "the finish line is visible" and reminding delegates of the urgency to finish the job: "We must be in the right place at the right time for every child in the world." Reflecting on the power of Rotary's global mission, he added,
"And I realized what you do with an idea: you change the world."
A Shared Commitment to End Polio
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A central highlight of the Institute took place during an evening End Polio Now vigil on the beach. District 5370 delegates stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Rotary International President Yinka Babalola, President-Elect Larry Lunsford, and leaders from across the participating Zones.
Holding lights by the water, delegates reaffirmed Rotary’s global commitment to eradicating polio worldwide—a powerful reminder of the collective purpose that unites Rotarians across every district.
Moving Forward
District 5370 leaders returned from the Zone Institute with refreshed strategies and practical resources to support local clubs. By aligning Public Image, Membership, and Foundation efforts, the district continues its commitment to making Rotary’s local and global impact undeniable.