Last week I had the privilege of attending the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber’s 10th Annual Women of Achievement Awards ceremony at Crystal Gardens. The event brought together business leaders, public servants, nonprofit advocates, educators, and community volunteers to celebrate women whose talent, commitment, and generosity have strengthened communities throughout Downriver.
While I was familiar with the event and knew that several Trenton Rotarians have been recognized with various awards over the years, I had not fully appreciated how instrumental our own Ronnie Ruelle was – and still is – in both creating the program and sustaining it through its first decade. Learning more about her involvement made the afternoon feel especially meaningful and reminded me how one person’s idea, when supported by determination and service, can grow into a lasting regional tradition…
Quite simply, the idea for this region’s recognition of the role women play in the growth, inspiration, and success of our entire Downriver community came from Ronnie. She understood that women were making an extraordinary difference – in businesses, schools, civic organizations, charitable causes, and neighborhoods – yet their contributions were not always celebrated as visibly as they deserved. By helping establish the Women of Achievement Awards, Ronnie created a platform that not only honors individual accomplishment but also encourages others to lead, mentor, volunteer, and serve. What a tremendous legacy she created… an annual celebration that elevates deserving women, shares their stories, and shows future generations what committed community leadership can accomplish!
Indeed, in typical Ronnie fashion, she’ll likely deflect some of the credit and point instead to the many partners, sponsors, nominees, and volunteers who have helped the program flourish. That humility is part of what makes her leadership so effective.
Still, it was her vision that identified the need, her inspiration that persuaded others to believe in the idea, and her courage and persistence that helped turn that idea into the proud tradition we celebrate today.
A decade later, the event continues to thrive because the foundation she helped build was grounded in a genuine belief that recognizing service and achievement strengthens our entire community.
It’s also a call for each of us – whether through Rotary, our churches, our schools, our businesses – to support emerging leaders, create opportunities for others, and express our gratitude to those whose efforts make our region a better place to live and serve.
Yours in Service,
Peter
SWCRC Women of Achievement
The Trenton Rotary was well represented at the 10th Women of Achievement Awards held last Friday at Crystal Gardens. Congrats to our very own Jessica Bazner who was one of the panelists. Great job, Jessica!
Congratulations to Jessica Bazner, who was on the panel!
Rob Bovitz attended with his daughter, Allison!
Bill Jasman awarded the Kyle Stack Leadership Award to Laura Huot, from The Guidance Center.
Ronnie and her son, Rob, are on the committee!
Debbie Dingell as well as our friends from DTE and The Information Center were at the event!
So were Peter and Mike!
Trenton Halloween Walk
What a spooktacular time at the City of Trenton Halloween Walk! 🎃👻 Thanks to DYPAC for the fun and Halloween magic, and a special shout-out to Noel and Debbie Jackson for their dedication and creativity. Community spirit at its best! ❤️👏🧡
Walmart Project
The next Walmart charity pick up is Saturday, November 7th. Please contact Bruce or Bill if you can help out that day!
