Club Calendar

April 2026

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Upcoming Speakers
Rotation Day at the History Center
Apr 21, 2026 7:00 AM
Executive Director Valerie Wassmer will provide program updates
Water Reclamation Plant Video Tour
Apr 28, 2026 7:00 AM
Aaron Luckstein, Deputy Public Works Director of Environmental Services
Board Meeting
May 05, 2026 7:00 AM
April Sutor
Club Inclusion and Visioning - next steps
May 12, 2026 7:00 AM
Kristi LaPlante & Anna

Welcome to the Rochester Risers Rotary Club

Are you looking to make a difference in our local community and the world while meeting new friends and having FUN? If you are, please consider joining the Rochester Risers Rotary Club. Our Club members are dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship. Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group who share your drive to give back.
 
Latest News
 
 
 
 
 
 
The History Center is excited to welcome you early Tuesday morning to learn about the many projects and exciting programs coming soon.
 
Executive Director, Valerie Wassmer will provide an overview of projects, answer questions, and provide a tour for those in attendance.
 
Valerie Wassmer is from a small town in SW Minnesota (Canby), she graduated from St. Cloud State University with a bachelor’s degree in history and worked for the MN History Historical Society for several years before returning to SCSU for her teaching degree.
She taught Social Studies at John Marshall High School for 25 years and in June of 2024 began her new career here at the History Center.
Valerie & her husband are huge sports fans (currently enjoying the Twins great start to the season) and parents to a spoiled English Bulldog named Farfel.
Join Us for the District 5960 “Peace, Purpose, and Happiness: Building Strong Communities” Conference!

When? April 17 - 18, 2026

Where? DoubleTree by Hilton St. Paul East, MN

Why? 
  • Connect with your Rotary district while learning about inner peace and community harmony. 
  • Enjoy amazing keynote speakers, insightful breakouts, and the House of Friendship.
  • Savor some great food and company!

All Conference Ticket: Full access to all activities for $230

Daily Rates:
  • Friday All Day: $150
  • Friday Dinner Only: $75
  • Friday Half Day: $75
  • Saturday All Day: $90
  • House of Friendship Table: $50  (registration link: Clicke Here)

Conference Schedule


Thank you, 

2026 District Conference of Clubs Team
 
It was so much fun for Rotary Club Members to be part of the distribution of Courage Awards at Willow Creek Middle School this past week! 
 
More than 50 nominations were received from students, with 10 students receiving awards. The Courage Awards are a great connection to the Courage Retreat held last November, sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Rochester. More Courage Awards will be distributed in April and May.
 
Congratulations to the nominees and recipients of the Courage Awards! 
 
 
Our Club was thrilled to welcome the Executive Director of Project Legacy, Karen Light Edmonds, to our meeting this week. Project Legacy, a local nonprofit, focuses on helping youth and young adults graduate from high school, attend college or technical school and obtain employment. It's always enlightening to learn about a local organization doing good in our community and helping others. 
Rotarians come from different walks of life, professions, and perspectives, yet we are united by a common desire to create lasting change in our local communities and around the world. In a time where differences can often dominate the headlines, Rotary reminds us that collaboration, compassion, and commitment can build bridges where none existed before. Each small act we take—whether it's a project completed, a hand extended, or simply showing up with open hearts—contributes to a greater good. The Rotary motto, "Service Above Self," is more than a phrase; it's a daily challenge. The Rochester Risers are thankful for the opportunity to serve our community.
 
 
Members of the Risers shared information on MY BOOK DAY at the Rotary Midterm Event on January 4th. Club Members are hard at work planning for our 12th MY BOOK DAY that will take place this Spring. We are thrilled to continue this tradition of sharing the joy of reading with hundreds of first graders in our community. 
 

The Rochester Risers Rotary Club is a dynamic, inclusive and collaborative club of engaged members dedicated to making a lasting impact in our community and the world. 

It has been our privilege to welcome two new members to the Rochester Risers Rotary Club in the past month. We extend a warm welcome to Ryan Deignan and Brenda Wichmann and look forward to serving alongside them as we work together to strengthen and improve our community and world. Cheers to our growing club membership! 
About Our Club
We meet In Person
Tuesdays at 7:00 AM
United Way of Southeast Minnesota
903 W. Center St.
Rochester, MN 55902
United States of America
We meet in a hybrid format. Join us at United Way of Southeast Minnesota or via ZOOM! Club Meetings typically held every Tuesday, except the first Tues. of each month (Board Mtgs). Please check the Program Schedule for meeting details.
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Club Executives
President
Immediate Past President
President Elect
Secretary
Treasurer
3-Club Operations Coordinator
Director / Club Administration Team Lead
Director / Community Service Team Lead
Director / Public Image Team Lead
Director / Membership Team Lead
Director / Rotary Foundation Lead