President Marion Mossman believes the Rotary motto “Service Above Self” implies taking an “outward” approach and helping those in need who are less fortunate than oneself.
Q. When did you join Rotary and what were your reasons for joining?
A. I joined the Ottawa-Stittsville Rotary Club in 2017. It was the same year that my husband Charles and I had moved from St. Thomas, Ontario to Stittsville to be closer to our daughters and their families. I have always had a strong motivation to do volunteer service and fully intended to continue this commitment in my new community. The Ottawa-Stittsville Rotary Club was most welcoming and its many service projects, both locally and internationally, “resonated” with my own interests.
Q. How has your background prepared you for the President’s position?
A. As a retired Public/Community Health Nurse in Winnipeg Manitoba, I had numerous leadership responsibilities in the culturally diverse communities where I worked. I organized and facilitated Mother and Infant support groups, breastfeeding support groups, parenting sessions, first aid classes and school health teaching topics and had lead roles in community immunization clinics.
My role as Clinical Education Facilitator at the University of Manitoba provided opportunities to share my experience and expertise in Community Health with nursing students.
After I retired, I volunteered with the VON as a Seniors’ Fitness Instructor and assisted in Congregate Dining events for seniors. I also facilitated Chronic Disease Workshops for community residents in St. Thomas and London, Ontario.
My leadership experiences, communication skills and motivation to serve my community provide the basis for my taking on the role as club President. I am also very fortunate and appreciative of the strong support of all our club members in assisting me this coming Rotary year.
Q. What does the Rotary motto “Service Above Self” mean to you?
A. The Rotary motto “Service Above Self” implies taking an “outward” approach and helping those in need who are less fortunate than oneself. This motto also emphasizes providing humanitarian service and advancing peace around the world.
Q. What family/personal activities do you like to do for fun and personal enjoyment?
A. I enjoy a variety of activities: gardening, day trips, dog walks, trying different exercise programs (yoga, Pilates) Library book clubs, practicing speaking French and German, writing my memoirs and especially spending time with my grandchildren.