June and July. Months of transition in Rotary. One administration comes to an end and another assumes its responsibilities. That transition takes place all the way from local Rotary Clubs to the presidency of Rotary International. At both levels, the impact is the same; only the geographic scope of leadership is different. In both instances new leadership is inaugurated, and embarks on a year-long journey of high expectations.

     The leadership transition in local clubs is more visible, because every member has the privilege of personal acquaintance with newly elected officers.

     Incoming officers in Rotary have the opportunity to build on the solid foundation laid by their predecessors. Their reach is higher because they stand on the shoulders of those who went before them. Outgoing officers continue to be a valuable resource, offering a seamless transition and an ongoing source of knowledge and experience.

     New club presidents, your fellow members have expressed confidence in your leadership by electing you to the highest club office. You must not just "hold the office" and preside at meetings. You must lead your club to enlarge its membership, and to expand its service functions. You are expected to support the goals of RI President Ray Klinginsmith and your District Governor.

     And presidents-elect, this is not just your year-in-waiting. It is your opportunity to prepare for the following year, to observe and to learn. Your success as next president will depend on your attention this year to the details of the office you will inherit.

     Club secretaries and treasurers, your duties are critical to the success of the club. Your work is perhaps less visible, but the club would be severely handicapped without your efficient services. Secretaries keep minutes, membership rolls, and other club records, and assist in correspondence. Treasurers collect dues, pay bills, and maintain financial records. The management of club business rests squarely on you. Your efficiency allows officers and directors to maximize club successes.

     Rotary's four Avenues of Service are typically headed by club directors. Because Rotary exists for service, directors assume responsibilities that make the club more than just a lunch-bunch. Club, Community, Vocational, and International are arenas of opportunity, but without committed leadership many of these opportunities will go unfulfilled. Directors, you must be true leaders, envisioning new opportunities of service.

     Club leadership can be compared to the construction of a tall building, reaching perhaps a hundred levels or more into the sky. Before construction emerges above street-level, footings must probe far below ground, anchoring to stable soil or bedrock. The foundation provides stability for the structure that rises above it.

     And so it is with Rotary officers and directors. Yours is the opportunity to rise to new heights, building on the foundation laid by your predecessors. While a skyscraper may be years in construction, you have only one year, only twelve months, in which to build your club's structure of service. Welcome to your year of Service Above Self!