What is RLI? 

The Rotary Leadership Institute was founded to assist in improving the Rotary knowledge and leadership skills of the future leaders of our Rotary clubs. The Institute recommends that clubs nominate those Rotarians who appear to have the potential for club leadership, not necessarily as future presidents. They should certainly have a strong interest in Rotary and be ready to be exposed to the larger world of Rotary.

Leadership skills in a voluntary organization are often different from business leadership skills. It is important that club leaders have every opportunity for education because the success or failure of our clubs depends in large part on the quality of their leaders. The Institute offers a leadership course in three full day sessions (Parts I, II, III). When offered in person, RLI is offered as a full one-day session per part.  If offered virtually, each part is offered over three evenings (2.25 hours).  Those completing each part are eligible for the next part. The courses are designed to provide Rotary knowledge and to develop leadership skills for voluntary organizations. 

What teaching methods are used? 

The Institute believes in course sessions with as much discussion/participation as possible. Participant levels are limited from 15 to 20 attendees to ensure each participant is able to get the maximum interaction in the sessions.  Lectures are strictly limited. Course methods include discussion groups, role-playing, problem solving workshops and creating projects. Everyone participates during one of the Institute’s sessions.

A course workbook containing an Institute Manual, session program agendas, faculty listings and course outlines and materials, is provided to each attendee.

Who are the faculty? 

The faculty members are carefully selected by the Institute for their teaching abilities. They are drawn from all areas of our district and occasionally from outside our district. Many are present and past district governors, assistant governors, successful past presidents and those with experience in special areas. Each new faculty member must attend an initial full day training program and various periodic reorientation programs. The results of evaluations help the Institute to improve the course content and instruction.

How much does it cost? 

The course fees vary, depending on whether RLI is being offered virtually or in person.

The cost for virtual sessions is $20 (USD) per person per Part.  Net proceeds from this fee (after minimal costs) are forwarded to The Rotary Foundation for the District 7090 Endowment.  

The cost for in person sessions is about $75 per registrant per day.  The fees include breakfast, lunch, coffee breaks and considerable materials given to participants.  Course fees also pay for meeting space, audio-visual equipment and promotional costs.

The Institute strongly recommends that clubs pay the fees for their participants.  

When and where are the next RLI sessions and how do I register?

RLI Sessions are presently being held virtually (as of August 2021) with one Part being offered each month.  The District makes an effort to have three RLI sessions each Rotary Year alternating between Canada and the USA. The time and place of each session is listed on the District's website www.rotary7090.org under Upcoming Events as details become available.   Registration can be completed by clicking on the date of the session and following the links.

For in person sessions, directions to the exact location will be sent to registered participants. Check in, continental breakfast and fellowship begin at 8:00 am. The welcome and announcements start at 8:30 am. The courses begin at 8:45 am. The program will conclude at 4:00 pm.

You must register online for this program. (If you are registering for virtual sessions, please note there are 3 evening sessions for each Part). 

You must pay the registration fee online.  Registration is not complete until paid by credit card.  We recommend that clubs reimburse RLI participants, so you should inquire if you club will reimburse you.

You can view and download the RLI brochure here (PDF)

Any questions, please contact:  Chair Glen Christensen.