Looking Back: Women in Rotary

 

Sharon Ranney our first woman President in 1997. Seen here at a recent event.

 

It wasn't until 1987 that the Rotary International Council on Legislation voted to permit women to become members of 

Rotary International. It turned out to be a watershed moment. There are now over 250,000 women worldwide, with lots of room to grow!

 

However, not being permitted to be a member, didn't stop the wives of early Rotarians from being valued contributors. Named "Rotary Anns" after the wife of Paul Harris, the founder of Rotary International, they gave exceptional service supporting the fundraising efforts, projects and events put on by their club. Here in Parry Sound, it was no different. They even hosted and annual event of their own, The Rotary Ann July Birthday Party, held at Belvedere Heights (1970 - 1995). Several Rotary Anns still meet for lunch to this day.

 

In July of 1993, then President Harvey Elliott, Proudly inducted Esther Taylor, Debbie Strivins (not this author), Linda Mitchell, Claudett Boyd and Donna Wynn as the first women in the Rotary Club of Parry Sound. In 1997 Sharon Ranney (pictured) became the first woman president of the club. As they say, the rest is history, as many women have now held that position.

 

Rotary provides opportunities for ordinary women to do extraordinary things. Across the globe, Rotary women make an impact in the lives of others by creating access to education, providing clean water, fighting disease and improving their local communities. Not only are women Rotarians on the front line lines but they are making their contributions in governing roles as well. Jenifer jones, member of the Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, became the first woman to take office as Rotary International (RI) President on July 1st, 2022. The current RI President is Jennifer Urlick.