Lexington Rotarains Attend the Rotary Club of Memphis 2
024 Large Club Conference: “Take Me to the River!”
MEMPHIS, TN – Oct. 8-10 – The Rotary Club of Memphis proudly hosted the 2024 Large Club Conference, a dynamic event celebrating the rich history and culture of Memphis while fostering valuable connections among club leaders from across the U.S. and Canada. Over three inspiring days, executive directors and presidents-elect participated in engaging presentations and fast-paced informational sessions that made for an exceptional conference experience.
This year’s conference featured Rotary Club of Lexington attendees Executive Director Peggy Trafton and President-elect Laurel Martin, Past President Sharon Reed, and board member Alisha Chaffin. The event was marked by musical performances that showcased Memphis’ vibrant culture, including the talented Memphis Jones, who captivated attendees with the history behind iconic Memphis hit songs. Grammy-winning saxophonist Kirk Whalum, known for his unforgettable contribution to the mega-hit “I Will Always Love You,” left the audience spellbound with his soulful performance.
A special highlight was the appearance of Priscilla Presley, who shared amusing anecdotes and insights from her life with Elvis Presley. As a devoted steward of his legacy, she emphasized the economic impact that the music icon continues to have on Memphis.
Dr. James R. Downing, President and CEO of St. Jude Children’s Hospital, delivered an inspiring address, highlighting his compassionate leadership and commitment to bringing the mission of St. Jude to a global audience.
A new feature at this year’s conference was “Rotary Speed Dating,” an innovative session format that allowed participants to exchange ideas and information rapidly. This interactive approach sparked lively discussions and provided fresh insights for club leaders.
Panel discussions focused on charitable giving and the arts/media, offering valuable takeaways to enhance club initiatives. After the conference, attendees gathered back in Lexington to debrief and review best practices and new ideas for implementation.
As we reflect on this year’s conference, we are grateful for the opportunity to connect with fellow leaders and the lasting relationships formed over the years. The conference was rewarding and inspiring experience, reaffirming the strength of our large club community.