FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Members of Watertown Rotary Club joined fellow Rotarians from across the region last weekend at the Rotary District 7040 Conference in Kingston. The 2026 conference, themed “Unite for Good,” brought together Rotary leaders and members for a weekend centered on service, leadership, fellowship, and community impact.
Representing the Watertown Rotary Club were Jay Matteson, Lisa Ruggiero, Suzi Renzi Falge, Don Woodhouse, and Diana Woodhouse. Their attendance reflected the club’s continued commitment to learning, collaboration, and service above self.
Throughout the conference, attendees participated in workshops, networking events, and presentations highlighting peacebuilding, youth leadership, sustainable agriculture, innovation, and strengthening local Rotary clubs. A special highlight was the presence of Rotaract members and Rotary Youth Exchange students from around the world, whose energy, ideas, and global perspectives demonstrated the bright future of Rotary.
A highlight of the weekend was the keynote address delivered by David Gershon, co-founder of the Empowerment Institute and leader of the Peace on Earth by 2030 initiative. His inspiring message focused on how individuals and organizations can create meaningful change through leadership, cooperation, and action. Members of the Watertown club especially appreciated the message and found it motivating and timely as they continue their own service efforts at home.
Conference attendees also celebrated the accomplishments of Rotary clubs and community partners from across District 7040 while building friendships and exchanging new ideas for future projects. Those connections help strengthen Rotary’s ability to serve communities on both sides of the border.
Members of the Watertown Rotary Club returned home energized and inspired to continue making a positive difference in the greater Watertown area through scholarships, youth programs, charitable initiatives, and hands-on service projects.