By Olivia Discon
Those who are acquainted with the Huntsville community are familiar with its strong sense of volunteerism and service, and these qualities are sharply reflected by the Huntsville Rotary Club. Since 1923, the organization has contributed to numerous efforts globally and locally to have a positive impact on both the present and the future. On September 14, 2023, Rotary gathered to recount their club’s efforts over the past century and to celebrate their impact on communities everywhere.
LEAP Ambassadors had the privilege of assisting in small ways and the even greater privilege of enjoying the celebration with Rotary members.
Held at the Walker Education Center, LEAP ambassadors arrived early to greet and sign in Rotary members, who then went on to mingle among the large crowd present.
The friendly crowd made us feel welcome, and we encountered a few familiar faces, such as Walker County Judge Colt Christian; County Commissioner Bill Daugette; City Councilmen Russell Humphrey and Bert Lyle; and Assistant City Manager Sam Maisel.
After enjoying our conversation with our table and dinners catered by Farmhouse Cafe, former Huntsville Mayor and prominent public servant, Mac Woodward, started the evening with a brief introduction…
…followed by a warm welcome by David Thompson. It was here that we were able to comprehend the major world events the Huntsville Rotary Club had experienced, such as the rise of radio broadcasting, television, and the internet, World War II, the Cold War, and the War on Terror.
Carole Mattingly and Marcus Gillespie, two longstanding members of the club, recounted a few projects they have worked on over the years, most notably their efforts to eradicate polio, provide clean water and CPAP machines in Nicaragua. Additionally, they touched on their exchange student program and highlighted a few of their former students from across the world.
Leaders from various organizations highlighted their service to the community, and how Rotary has supported their efforts. This included Holly McMichael, the Executive Director of A Time 2 Read; Sally Davis and Juanita Hall, Supporting Housing Insecure Kids and Families in the Huntsville Independent School District; Dave Smith, Executive Director of Good Shepard Mission; and Michelle Spencer, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Walker County. Each of these organizations serves as pillars of local volunteerism and the Huntsville community. They left the group in awe of the many strides they have made in improving the lives of those around them.
The night ended with closing remarks by Michelle Lyons, the current President of the Huntsville Rotary Club. President Lyons further emphasized the importance of Huntsville’s coalition of public servants and how honored she is to represent them.
Thank you to the Huntsville Rotary Club for allowing LEAP ambassadors to attend their 100th-year celebratory gathering, and for all the excellent strides made in uplifting not only Huntsville, but the rest of the world.
Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics 