July 9 – Installation of Officers and Directors and 2026-27 President’s Vision for the New Year

2026-2027 President Lyle Hanna’s Message: Involvement in Rotary can lead to a better life experience! 

I got involved in Rotary in the early 1990s because my father-in-law had been a member for many years and regularly encouraged me to join. He told me it would be a rewarding life experience. Bill McCord was a dedicated Rotarian with more than 50 years of perfect attendance, and he was right. 

I became involved early, serving on the board and helping establish our early endowment fund. Like so many things in life, we get more out of it when we put more into it. 

One of the greatest things about Rotary is that we are surrounded by strong, intelligent, hard-working, and dedicated people. When you can work alongside individuals like that, they set a high standard and inspire exceptional work. The beauty of Rotary is that our entire organization is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others, our neighbors, our community, and people around the world. 

Rotary opens countless doors for each of us to make a difference. And that’s a worthwhile thing to do. 

In our earlier days, we were expected to attend Rotary every week. If we couldn’t attend our home club’s meeting, we were encouraged to make up the meeting at another Rotary club. As a result, I had the privilege of attending Rotary meetings around the world. Whether I was traveling for work, vacation, or with Habitat for Humanity, where I served as Vice Chair of the International Board, I always tried to attend a local Rotary meeting. 

You can imagine what a pleasure it is to walk into a Rotary meeting in the Philippines, Australia, Ireland, or South Africa and have people greet you with open arms, asking, “Where are you from? How can we enhance your visit? How is your Rotary club doing back in Lexington?” 

There is an immediate connection among Rotarians, and that connection quickly opens doors and enriches your life. Here in Lexington, we have been making a difference for 111 years. 

The joy of Rotary isn’t just what we accomplish – it’s how we accomplish it. Our club continues to make a meaningful impact through service, fellowship, and community engagement. From supporting initiatives like Dancing with the Lexington Stars and the Miracle League to educating, feeding, and improving lives, we are making a real difference.  

This year, we’ll offer outstanding weekly programs, strengthen relationships with new and long-standing members, and continue attracting exceptional community leaders. We’re also excited to host North America’s largest Rotary clubs this September, showcasing the very best of Lexington, Kentucky’s hospitality, bourbon, horse industry, and innovation. 

Is this your year to step up and make an even greater contribution to our club, our community, and our world? 

I know we will continue to make a positive impact. But we’ll accomplish even more if you – and your friends – join us.