Presidents and First PrePETS Meeting

Posted by Su Mansur on Sep 22, 2016
 
The first meeting of the current Presidents and Presidents-Elect was held on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at the Sheraton, Boston-North.  The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm by District Governor Sheryl Meehan following a meet and greet social hour powered by a game of Bingo.  Those attending went about introducing themselves and asking for signatures in specific categories on their Bingo card.  Those who completed the card with all squares signed received a scratch card.  There were winners!

Governor Sheryl invited Bob Wood, District Governor-nominee, to lead the assembly in the The Pledge of Allegiance which he followed with a moment of silence for all those who have served and the reciting of the Four-Way Test.

After the opening ceremony everyone was invited to partake of the superb buffet dinner that was awaiting them in the anteroom.
 
During her opening remarks, Governor Sheryl introduced and recognized District Governor-elect Dave Gardner, District Governor-nominee Bob Wood, Several Past District Governors, Assistant District Governors, and in particular her Governor’s Aid, Christina Harris.

Governor Sheryl addressed the assembly with an inspirational talk intended to encourage each participant to “lead from behind”.  “To be a leader one must lead from the foundation, by the support provided from the cement”.  Encourage each member in their ideas and goals.

She further explained that the PrePets and Presidents meetings are planned and staffed to provide resources and skill-building tools for leaders and to encourage presidents to promote membership and the Foundation and learn about and utilize resources.

With regard to Interact, she spoke of the importance of meeting with students to discover what they want from their Interact experience.  “Think Service Above Self”.

Dave Gardner, District Governor-elect was next invited to the podium to offer insights from his meetings with multiple District Governors-elect.  With regard to PETS, they discussed, among many details the following: 
 
  • How do you want people to feel upon leaving the PETS training?
  • What do you want them to know?
  • What do you want them to do?
The result of the deliberations changed PETS for the future.  PETS will be focused on inspiration with the moto “Inspire to Lead and Empower to Achieve”.

The Governor returned to the podium, thanked Dave, and instructed the assembled group to disburse to two separate meeting rooms.  Presidents went to the Winthrop Room and Presidents-elect to the Wakefield Room for training specific to their individual responsibilities.

A true record, 
Susan C. Mansur, District Secretary