A Trailblazer Is Joining Us: Sylvia Whitlock at District Conference

We are thrilled to share an exciting addition to our District Conference lineup—Dr. Sylvia Whitlock, a true pioneer in Rotary and a powerful voice for inclusion and leadership.

In 1987, Sylvia made history as the first woman to serve as president of a Rotary club, following the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision that opened Rotary membership to women.

Her leadership didn’t just mark a moment—it helped transform Rotary worldwide, breaking barriers and paving the way for generations of women leaders who followed.

A lifelong educator, humanitarian, and advocate, Sylvia has spent decades championing opportunity and empowerment—both within Rotary and beyond.

Her legacy is so significant that Rotary International created the Sylvia Whitlock Leadership Award, honoring those who continue her work of advancing women in Rotary.

What makes this especially meaningful is that Sylvia isn’t just part of Rotary history—she is very much part of Rotary today. Her story is engaging, inspiring, and deeply relevant to how we lead and serve now.

You won’t want to miss the opportunity to hear from someone who helped reshape Rotary as we know it—and continues to inspire what’s possible. Rotarians can register on DACdb’s District Calendar.