District Governor Brent Collingwood

As we begin the 118th year of Rotary International, I am thrilled to be serving as your District Governor. Under the guidance of Rotary International President Gordon McInally, our theme for this Rotary year is CREATE HOPE in the WORLD. What a wonderful theme that leaves so much opportunity for Rotary clubs to determine how they can create hope in the world.

Some of Rotary International president McInally 's priorities are to carry on the work of those that have come before us; In other words the continuation of the great strides that have been made in several key areas: unlocking the power of Rotaract, empowering girls and women, growing the diversity of our membership and building Rotary as an organization that is inclusive to all, and continuing to grow the Foundation, including Rotary's newest initiative, the Polio Plus Society.

Of course, along with continuation comes innovation. President McInally has asked us to focus on mental health, and specifically the stigma of speaking out about mental health and mental illness. In response, District 5370 will be running a “Don't Bottle It Up” campaign throughout the year to amplify Rotary's voice and speaking up on one of society's greatest challenges today.

 

Brent Collingwood has been a Rotarian since 1999 and has served many roles in Rotary, both at the club and district level, including Club President (Edmonton Riverview) in Rotary’s Centennial year of 2004-05, Chair of the District Rotary Foundation Committee, and Chair of the District Learning & Development Committee.

In 2005 Brent received the ‘Service Above Self’ award, is a Major Donor, a founding member of the Paul Harris Society, and a member of the Bequest Society level 2.

Brent has a Master of Education degree from the University of Alberta and is a Certified Executive Coach. Brent has been married to his wife Adele for 37 years and enjoys such hobbies as landscape photography and golf. Having no children, their little Yorkshire terrier Bixby keeps them busy and active.