District Governor Nominee Aimee Walsh (pictured left) has been working and advocating for children, youth and families who experience disability, mental health challenges, and special needs throughout her career. A University of Oregon graduate with a master’s degree in special education, Walsh currently serves as the CEO of Direction Service, where she is responsible for leadership, organization and coordination of all the agency’s programs and services – including the agency’s commitment to equity and diversity.
Walsh, a member of the Rotary Club of Eugene Metro, will facilitate the first conversation of a brand new program titled Rotary Now!/Leading Change. And, she invites all District 5110 Rotarians to participate in the first conversation session — titled Committing to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion — Thursday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m on Zoom. Registration is requested on DACdb by clicking on the “Register Now” button. The event is also located on the website calendar.
“Working in the field of disability has made me a passionate advocate for inclusive and diverse communities. Membership in Rotary has shown me how very diverse groups of people can unite to make real and meaningful change in the world. I am hopeful that Rotarian leaders can help address the current social challenges we are facing and believe that starts with dialogue” said Walsh. She also participates on volunteer social justice projects, having served on the City of Eugene’s Human Rights Commission.
The Aug. 20 session is not meant to be a training, but a facilitated conversation with large and small-group discussions.
Walsh believes Rotary members have a tremendous opportunity by attending: “If you have been wondering about your role in ensuring Rotary’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion; or you are wrestling with the issues brought forth from current social unrest; or if you are just interested in hearing what other leaders like you have to say; Please join us!”
Future topics in the Rotary Now!/Leading Change series will be held the third Thursday of each month. September 17th’s conversation will be led by Paul K. Chappell on peace literacy.
