On Wednesday November 5, 2025, the Orem-Lindon Rotary lunch felt less like a formal gathering and more like a heartfelt confession and a call to action. Invited by Chief of Staff Scott Rosenbush, District Governor Suzanne Leonelli delivered a speech that was both personal and strategic, a blend of life story, leadership vision, and a clear roadmap for a year focused on visibility, engagement, and renewal.
Chief of Staff Scott Rosenbush introducing District Governor Suzanne Leonelli.
Growing up as one of five children in a family marked by hardship, Suzanne Leonelli reminded everyone why service, to her, is more than a commitment, it’s a moral duty. “The hands that helped us were the hands of Rotarians,” she shared, explaining that wearing her Rotary pin is a daily reminder of the responsibility to make sure no child endures what she once did. Out of that personal history came her theme for the year: “Let’s Get Loud”, to speak up about Rotary, showcase its impact, and invite others to join.
Her message was as emotional as it was precise. The district’s goals are ambitious: grow membership from 1,638 to 1,802 members, raise $1 million for The Rotary Foundation with $500,000 dedicated to PolioPlus, attract 25 new benefactors with one-time gifts of $1,000, engage 75% of members in at least one service activity this year, and help half of all clubs establish or update their strategic plans. These targets align with Rotary International’s priorities, impact, reach, engagement, and adaptability, but are grounded in realistic, local action.
District Governor Suzanne Leonelli delivering her inspiring message: “Let’s Get Loud!”
To achieve these, several key initiatives are underway. Rotary Reconnect aims to reach out to former members, understand why they left, and invite them back. Two District Service Days have been set: December 1, when each Rotarian is encouraged to perform and document one act of kindness, and May 16, whose theme will be announced later. Another signature project, Hope for All Souls, launches on January 1 with the goal of collecting 1,802 pairs of shoes for orphanages—a symbolic link between membership goals and tangible compassion.
Group Photo of Rotarians, Rotaractors and District leaders with Governor’ Suzanne Leonelli.
Suzanne also emphasized youth involvement: “Rotaract is not the future, it’s the present.” Of the 36 clubs she has visited so far, only two had Rotaractors at their tables, a situation she hopes to change by integrating young people into district projects, decision-making, and innovation. She also encouraged clubs to embrace digital storytelling: “Rotary is too often the world’s best-kept secret,” she said, urging members and presidents alike to share their stories online to attract volunteers, partners, and new members.
Her tone moved gracefully between tenderness and conviction, punctuated by memorable anecdotes, such as the 81-year-old man who joined Rotary after marrying a Rotarian and admitted he had “never really known what Rotary was.” Suzanne Leonelli’s humility also shone through when she reflected on her own journey: “I lead with my heart, and sometimes I make mistakes. Please forgive me in advance.” She reminded members of the importance of continuity through the “G-line”—the chain of three consecutive governors that ensures lasting vision beyond a single year.
In closing, Suzanne Leonelli’s message was both simple and powerful: don’t be afraid to show up, to invite, and to act together. “Alone, we can go nowhere. Together, we can go anywhere.” With that spirit, the district steps into a year where visibility, youth engagement, and meaningful service will be the foundation of its success.
About the Author. Louyoko Nianza is the author of “GO BACK TO AFRICA”, founder of SLSA, and Global President of the Smart-Africanism Ideology, and NGO. Originally from the Republic of Congo, he is currently pursuing political science studies in the United States, with a focus on transformative leadership and African empowerment.
As the proponent of Smart-Africanism, Louyoko advocates for authentic, visionary leadership to advance prosperity, unity, and sustainable progress across the African continent. He has represented marginalized communities, particularly women and girls in mountain regions of Utah and Africa, at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68 2024 and CSW69 – 2025), highlighting their challenges and promoting empowerment on a global stage. A dedicated Rotaractor and leader, Louyoko combines local engagement with international advocacy, connecting grassroots initiatives to broader solutions. His work continues to inspire and prepare the next generation of African leaders committed to positive social impact.
***
PowerPoint of the Presentation
***
