New Paul Harris Fellow

Posted by Bill Bourlet

On Monday last, Bill B and I were able to attend a Rotaract meeting where Mary Watson was presenting a synopsis of her recent trip to Africa. It was a great presentation and the Rotaractors had many questions. However, one of the highlights of the evening was the presentation by Mary, Bill and me of a Paul Harris Award to Ishwarya Chaitanya. She was a former Interactor at PW, recipient of the high school graduation scholarship, attendee at RYLA North, and was responsible for establishing the Langara Rotaract Club. She continues to be very enthusiastic about her role in Rotaract and has encouraged many students to join this very active club. Here is her thank you letter. Maureen Smith

Dear Mary, Maureen, Bill and the Vancouver Arbutus Rotary Club, Every cell in my body is quivering with the shock, surprise and excitement of what I received today. Rotary has given me so much, I cannot even ask for more. My mind is still processing all that has happened; the very fact that you deemed me worthy to be a Paul Harris Fellow is one that I'm still trying to grasp. I keep looking back at my medal and certificate to make sure it wasn't all a dream. (I'm sleeping with my pin tonight, that's for sure). So until I am able to really verbalize the myriad of feelings going through my mind and my heart, I would like to start off by saying, Thank You. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for giving me this great honour and for the immense respect and kindness that you have showed me. I hope to continue to make you proud. With all my love and respect, Ishwarya Chaitanya