On July 8, the Rotary Club of Welland held a Changeover Social, with 41 attendees, including 24 Rotarians. Welland Rotarians and PDG David Alexander inducted new President Ray Tisi and the 2025-2026 Board of Directors.Past President Paul Leon was presented with a Past President pin acknowledging a successful year of leadership.
President Ray expressed deep honour and humility in stepping into the role. He emphasized a grassroots, member-driven approach to leadership:
Outline strategic goals:
Run the club like a values-driven business: structured, purposeful, and accountable.
Engage in a cycle of listening, deciding, and doing.
Prioritize membership growth and retention, visibility in the community, and partnerships.
Position Welland’s club as a vital part of the global Rotary "franchise".
He referenced the Rotary International theme from President Francesco Arezzo Avita: “United for Good.”
Rotarian Vic Kerschl was presented with a Certificate recognizing 50 years of service to the Rotary Club of Welland and Rotary International. He was President for a two-year term from 1979-1981 and again in 2021-2022. He and his wife hosted several Youth Exchange students and took part in a Rotary Polio immunization trip to India in 2005.
The club recognized the late Gerry Bujold and Fred Farnham, two former Rotarians who contributed greatly to the Rotary Club of Welland and the community at large.
In closing remarks, President Ray Tisi called for unity and active participation. He encouraged members to attend upcoming meetings and consider adding more informal/social gatherings to the calendar.
PHOTO: Welland IPDG David Alexander (centre left) and President Ray Tisi (centre right)
Board of Directors, Rotary Club of Welland