We are excited to present our Member Feature for May – Kerry Day. Kerry recently retired from her career as a lawyer and is now enjoying time with her husband, family, and grandson.
In this Member Feature, we learn how Rotary helped Kerry expand her personal network, start Thursday mornings off inspired, and provide the opportunity to maximize the impact of serving in the community.
MEMBER PROFILE: Kerry Day (Sponsored by Bernie Kollman, member since 2009)
Why did you join the Rotary Club of Edmonton Glenora?
I was very familiar with the Club as a young lawyer and had several friends involved. Bernie approached me about becoming a member and I joined in 2009. When I joined, I was in the “empty nester” stage of life and had time to form new connections and friendships. It was exciting to be part of something that was outside of my vocation and could expand my personal network with such wonderful Rotarians.
Are you currently involved with a committee or project?
I am currently the chair of our International Committee which I was happy to take on at the request of our dear late friend Wendy Andrews. Wendy and I were neighbors in Laurier. I have also been involved in several other committees, including Fundraising and Vocational Services.
What has been the most valuable part (so far) of being a member of our Club?
The most valuable part of Rotary has been the sense of community and common purpose. The feeling of doing good with your friends and peers, and the opportunity to spread your individual contribution over several different areas, locally and internationally.
Do you have a favorite memory or experience as a Rotarian that you would like to share?
I have fond memories of the great parties that we had in years past, such as the Have a Heart Gala. We used to raise a lot of money at those events, and they were fun to be a part of. I also really enjoy the breakfast meetings (before we stopped due to the pandemic). Our breakfast meetings on Thursday mornings are such a great way to start the day – the opportunity to hear wonderful speakers and spend time with friends at your table. Much better than driving to work with a coffee and muffin! I never have regretted any time that I spent going to a Rotary breakfast meeting.
I have fond memories of the great parties that we had in years past, such as the Have a Heart Gala. We used to raise a lot of money at those events, and they were fun to be a part of. I also really enjoy the breakfast meetings (before we stopped due to the pandemic). Our breakfast meetings on Thursday mornings are such a great way to start the day – the opportunity to hear wonderful speakers and spend time with friends at your table. Much better than driving to work with a coffee and muffin! I never have regretted any time that I spent going to a Rotary breakfast meeting.
What would you say to someone considering joining Rotary?
Joining Rotary is a very rewarding experience and a useful investment of time.
Tell us more about yourself – career, family, hobbies?
I have been married to my husband for nearly 40 years. We have a daughter and a son, and we have one grandson, who is now 6 years old. Now retired, I was a third-generation lawyer – my father and grandfather were both lawyers. I worked in both private practice and corporate environments – all great experiences. I have also been involved on several non-profit boards, and I am enjoying continuing to volunteer my time to boards. Skiing is a lifelong passion of mine since I was 10 years old. I enjoy hiking, biking, and spending time outside – something I am enjoying doing a lot now that I am retired.
What is something unique about you, that not many people would know?
Prior to becoming a lawyer, I lived and worked in Jasper for several years in hospitality, including Travel Alberta and Brewster’s. I also moved to Montreal and completed my undergraduate degree at McGill University.
Can you share something positive that you have learned about yourself during the pandemic?
My comfort zone is a lot closer to people than I thought!
If you could be anywhere right now (safely), where would you like to be?
I could not see myself living anywhere else, but I would enjoy travelling throughout Europe (I am not really a beach person). I would love to drive around Europe, visiting museums, art galleries, historic sites, and enjoying local cuisine. Since we cannot travel much right now, I enjoy watching HGTV and living through other people’s experiences.