These events are so well organized. There was no fluff, just excellent information. The speakers were inspiring.
First time attendee
2025
Doubletree by Hilton at 2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, CA
Doubletree by Hilton at 2050 Gateway Place, San Jose, CA
These events are so well organized. There was no fluff, just excellent information. The speakers were inspiring.
Angela Lopez is the Regional Membership Officer for the western United States Zones 26 and 27. In this role, Angela works with Rotary leaders at the zone, district, and club level to develop and implement membership engagement and attraction strategies, inspire and foster energizing and inclusive club experiences, and promote and utilize our membership resources, reports, and tools.
Angela Lopez resides in Phoenix, Arizona and has a Masters of Nonprofit Leadership and Management. She was a Rotary Youth Exchange student in 2003-2004 to Denmark which led her to study abroad again in college to China and eventually join the United States Peace Corps where she served over three years in Colombia.
Angela is a passionate Rotarian and is a past president of Phoenix Rotary 100. She is a youth exchange counselor, RYLA leader, PHF +6, Assistant Governor and so much more! With her nonprofit management degree, she spends her time behind the scenes to organize systems that will strengthen her clubs so that they can do more for their communities and the world.
Annual Giving Officer, The Rotary Foundation
Geoff Cochran is Annual Giving Officer with The Rotary Foundation, with a special focus on Zones 26 and 27. He is a part of a team within The Foundation’s staff who apply giving trends, data analysis and connections to empower Rotary leaders to acquire, retain and upgrade donors, fund more grants, and create a strong pipeline of philanthropic support for The Rotary Foundation.
Geoff has been with Rotary International for four years filling various roles, but comes to the Foundation from a decades long career in nonprofit administration and management. He has a MS in Public Service Management, has volunteered on various boards and committees and is a firm believer in Rotary’s motto “Service above self.”
Rotary District 5220
Faculty Member
Amy Wolfe is a partner in Mujeres Poderosas, LLC, a collaboration of hard-working, determined, and passionate women sharing their collective wisdom for the betterment of organizations. Her career includes tenure as President and CEO of AgSafe, Development Manager of the California Farmland Trust, Vice President of the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation and as a professional staff member in the California State Assembly.
Ms. Wolfe currently serves as Chair of the Ag Innovations Board of Directors and President of the League of Women Voters of Stanislaus County. She is also the Immediate Past President of the Modesto Rotary Club. Her previous Board service and leadership include the Association of Fundraising Professionals, Modesto Chamber of Commerce, and United Way of Stanislaus County.
Ms. Wolfe possesses a Master of Public Policy and Administration from California State University, Sacramento and a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. In addition, she is accredited as Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE).
Past District 5180 Governor, 2021-2022
Desirée has been an active member of the Rotary Club of Point West – Sacramento for over 15 years. She is the current club treasurer and The Rotary Foundation Chair. She earned the distinction of Rotarian of the Year for District 5180 in 2013-14 and served as Governor of the District in 2021-2022.
Desirée is the Chair of District 5180’s Leadership Training Program (PRLS) and enjoys helping other district Rotarians enhance their leadership skills. She is also currently serving as the Chair of District 5180’s Charitable Foundation.
She has lived in the Sacramento area for most of her life. With a degree in Accounting, she began working for the State of California as an auditor and spent almost 17 years in a variety of fiscal management and executive positions there.
She had the opportunity to realize her dream of owning a Hallmark store and in 1998 purchased her first store in Orangevale. She ended up with a small chain of Hallmark stores in Orangevale, Sacramento and Napa.
After running Hallmark stores for 17 years, Desirée sold her business and went back to work for the State with the California Highway Patrol. After three years there, she was fortunate enough to retire in August 2016 and enjoy Rotary full-time as well as other opportunities.
Desirée recently joined the Africa Hope Fund, Inc. (a non-profit organization that promotes wildlife conservation in Southern Africa and supports anti-poaching efforts, conservation education for children, wildlife damage mitigation, and continued education for local children to ensure their economic futures) as the Treasurer and Board Member.
Rotary District 5160
Faculty Member
William K. Wesley is an author, transformational speaker, Top Performance Coach, financial educator, and corporate trainer. He is currently a national financial speaker and content creator for My Secure Advantage where he creates and delivers financial education via in-person and online sessions. William has spent over 25 years in the financial industry in various positions including financial advisor, bank branch manager and regional investor education manager for firms such as Citibank, Merrill Lynch, and Charles Schwab.
As the author two books, Full Life Balance, which has been called a handbook for wellness and The Four Factors of Happiness; William delivers training, coaching and keynote presentations that uniquely combine his engaging, warm style with proven successful mental, physical, and financial wellness tips. His presentations as well as his recommendations get results, are easy to follow and fun! His client base includes pharmaceutical giant AbbVie, North Bay Health Care, UC Berkeley, and T-Mobile.
William received his MBA and his JD (Doctor of Jurisprudence) from Golden Gate University in San Francisco, where he, as a professor, also taught Management Principles, Management Communication and Organizational Behavior. William received his BS in Business from the University of San Francisco. He is an authority on productivity, communication, presentation skill training, networking and life balance and is featured and quoted often.
William is a former Planning Commissioner for the City of Fairfield and former San Francisco Human Rights Commissioner. He is also a certified Minimum Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) provider with the State Bar of California and has delivered Continuing Education training to attorneys. William was an Arbitrator with FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority) and is an Independent Mediator.
William is a Rotarian who was named Rotarian of The Year of the Fairfield-Suisun Rotary Club for 2016-2017. He was the 2023-24 club President. He and his lovely wife Linda live in Northern California. William is a certified sailor who also enjoys sailing, reading, writing, playing tennis, golf, and chess.
Rotary District 5160
Faculty Member
Bev has been a proud Rotarian for 25 years now, remaining an enthusiastic member and past president of Redding East Rotary even in retirement. Following Bev’s year as club president in 2009/2010, she has served as her North State area’s Assistant Governor (2014-2016) and District 5160 Trainer (2016-2018), in addition to being District 5160’s Conference Co-Chair in 2021. Redding East Rotarians chose Bev as their Rotarian of the Year twice, in 2013 and 2016, and she was presented with Rotary International’s Service Above Self award by District 5160 in 2010.
Professionally, Bev had two careers—first as a television news reporter/anchor in Eureka and Salinas followed by work in the non-profit sector in development (fundraising). Bev retired eight years ago after almost 20 years as Development Officer for Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding and has been traveling extensively since then. She has always been an active community volunteer, elected twice to the Shasta High School Board of Trustees in addition to service on several other community boards. Bev and her husband Sonny have three adult children living in California, Texas and New Jersey, where their two granddaughters reside “much too far away,” according to Bev. Son Brian was a Rotary Youth Exchange D5160 outbound student to Brazil in 2011/2012 and the family has hosted exchange students from Montenegro and Brazil over the years.
Rotary Club of Stockton, California, USA
District 5220
Waqar Rizvi has been a member of Rotary Club of Stockton “Club #92” since 2008. He has held multiple leadership positions within the club including being the President. Waqar was the District Awards Chair for four years and is the Assistant District Governor (2020-22). He has participated in a number of projects, activities, events and meetings, both locally and internationally. In 2018, Waqar organized and coordinated an NID trip for Rotarians of District 5220 to visit District 3272 Pakistan for Polio immunization.
Waqar graduated with a Bachelors’ degree in Business Administration from the University of the Pacific in 2002. He received his Master of Business Administration from National University in 2007. He works at the San Joaquin County as the Department Information Systems Manager at the Assessor/Recorder office. He is also serving his second term as the Planning Commissioner for the City of Stockton.
Waqar is married to Maria, who is also a Rotarian, and they have two young children, Fatima and Ebraheem.
He is a Major Donor 1 and belongs to the Paul Harris Society. Additionally, he is the Vice Chair of the Salvation Army Advisory Board in Stockton, Vice President of the American Pakistani Association of San Joaquin, and the Vice President of the Stockton Rotary Endowment.
Waqar considers it a blessing that through Rotary, he has been blessed to be engaged and participate in projects like, literacy, polio immunization, disaster relief, promoting peace and community outreach. He is always looking forward to further serving the community and the world through Rotary.
Rotary District 5230
Faculty Member
Michael Rabara is a seasoned funeral service executive, philanthropist and community leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to public service, professional excellence, and family. He is a graduate of California State University, Fresno, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with an emphasis in Public Policy, and he also holds a degree in Mortuary Science from Cypress College. Michael has worked in the funeral industry for over 28 years, serving in executive leadership roles and providing compassionate guidance to families during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Michael’s dedication to service extends well beyond his professional career through his long-standing involvement with Rotary International. He began his Rotary journey as a RYLA student at Camp Royal. He took the next steps in Rotary and is a member of the North Fresno Rotary Club, where he has served as club president, and he has advanced through the leadership ranks of Rotary District 5230, serving as Assistant Governor and District Governor 2024 – 2025.He will take on the reins of District Foundation Chair and serve as the District 5230 representative to the Council on Legislation for Rotary International, continuing his commitment to advancing Rotary’s mission of service above self.
Michael is married to his husband, Rudy, and together they are raising their 11-year-old son, Stanton. As a family, they enjoy traveling, spending quality time together, and creating lasting memories. Giving back to his community and serving all humanity through service are guiding principles in Michael’s life, shaping both his personal values and his professional endeavors.
Cha-Ching!
Rotary District 5150
Faculty Member
Sarah joined the Rotary Club of Redwood City in 2015 and quickly became an active and engaged member. She has held numerous leadership roles, including Board Member, Community Services Chair, International Services Chair, Club President, Assistant Governor for District 5150, and District 5150 Grants Committee Member. She currently serves as the Every Rotarian, Every YEAR (EREY) Coordinator. Sarah has a strong passion for fundraising and community service, and her role in local government gives her a unique perspective on the needs of the community.
Professionally, Sarah serves as the Library Division Manager of Customer Experience at Redwood City Public Library. She brings over 22 years’ experience in local government—18 of those with the City of Redwood City—offering deep expertise in leadership, management and public service.
Sarah is an active member of several professional organizations including the Municipal Management Association of Northern California (MMANC), Women Leading Government (WLG), International City/County Management Association (ICMA), California Library Association (CLA), American Library Association (ALA). Outside of work, Sarah continues her commitment to community engagement by volunteering at her daughters’ schools.
Rotary District 5230
Faculty Member
Nicholas Grim is an accomplished Marketing and Communications Manager with over 20 years of success driving brand strategy, community engagement, and lead generation in B2B, B2C, and B2G environments. As Marketing and Communications Manager at Kings View, he has also made a significant impact at organizations including Professional Exchange, Solar Negotiators, and United Way Fresno and Madera Counties. Nicholas’s expertise encompasses SEO, social media, live events, graphic design, and media relations, and he holds certifications in Google Ads, SEO strategy, and conflict resolution. A proud graduate of California State University, Fresno, he is recognized for his forward-thinking vision and collaborative leadership, earning honors such as Fresno Chamber Ambassador of the Year and the Rotary International Presidential Citation.
Deeply dedicated to service, Nicholas has been an engaged Rotarian for nearly a decade and currently serves as Deputy Chief of Staff for Rotary District 5230. He has also contributed as Assistant Governor and committee member since 2021, earning distinctions such as District Rotarian of the Year (2023–2024), North Fresno Rotarian of the Year (2021), and multiple Paul Harris Fellow recognitions. Outside his professional and civic commitments, Nicholas is a devoted husband and father of three—affectionately called “The Grimlins”—and continues to inspire both his family and community through active volunteerism and exemplary leadership.
Faculty Member
Glen has been a Rotarian since 2011 when he joined the Rotary Club of Chico. Since then, he has served the club as Team Captain, Community Service Chair, Club Board Member, Chico Rotary Foundation Board Member, and 2019-2020 Club President. Glen also served as an Assistant Governor for District 5160 from 2021 to 2023.
Professionally, Glen is a California Licensed Professional Fiduciary and is the President and CEO (as well as CFO, Bookkeeper, and Janitor) of North State Fiduciary Services, Inc. Glen is a proud Dad to daughter Lisette and son Christopher and lives in Chico.
Rotary District 5170
Faculty Member
Mitty Chang is a longtime Rotary leader, entrepreneur, and digital strategy executive with over 20 years of experience helping organizations lead through change. He currently serves as Operating Partner & Chief Growth Officer at Sora Ventures, where he works with global portfolio companies on growth strategy, communication, and execution, and as Executive Chairman of Candeavor, a digital consultancy he founded to help organizations strengthen their web, marketing, and AI technology foundations. His professional experience includes leadership and advisory work with organizations such as Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy), Samsung, and Cisco.
Mitty has been involved in Rotary since 2004 across Interact, Rotaract, and Rotary, serving in leadership roles at the club, district, and international levels, and speaking at more than 100 Rotary conferences and conventions worldwide. He has founded two Rotaract Clubs, two Rotary Clubs, a Rotary Fellowship, two Rotaract Districts, and a Rotaract Multi-District Organization. His Rotary work is deeply informed by his professional background building teams, motivating volunteers, and guiding leaders through moments of transition and scale.
As a speaker and facilitator, Mitty focuses on practical leadership, volunteer motivation, and sustainable club culture. He is known for translating complex ideas into clear, actionable frameworks that presidents can apply immediately, while keeping people, purpose, and long-term impact at the center of their leadership.
Rotary District 5150
Faculty Member
Dave is a 34-year veteran Law Enforcement, and recently retired as the Chief of the Menlo Park Police Department. He started his career with the Pacifica Police Department where he rose to the rank of Captain in 2008, and in 2011 took a position as Commander for the Menlo Park Police Department, before being appointed as the Chief of Police in 2018.
Dave has been involved in Rotary International since 2000, and is a member of the Rotary Club of Pacifica. He is past president of that club (2009/2010) and the Group Study Exchange team leader for a GSE trip to Italy District 2060 in 2010. Dave is also a certified PRLS (Potential Rotary Leadership Seminar) instructor since 2010, and has been an instructor for PETS (President Elect Training Seminar) since 2015. He was an Assistant Governor for District 5150 from 2016-2018. He is currently the District’s Youth Protection Officer and Annual Fund Chair. Dave participated in a “Keep India Polio Free” international project in 2018, is a Major Donor to The Rotary Foundation and a member of the Bequest Society.
Dave is a graduate of the College of San Mateo and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management from Saint Mary’s College. He is a POST (Police Officer Standard and Training) certified instructor and is a graduate of the California POST Master Instructor Development Program, a one year intensive program deigned to create a cadre of highly trained law enforcement instructors throughout the state. Dave is also a graduate of the POST Command College program and the Senior Management in Policing program. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Military History from Norwich University.
Danielle Lallement began her career as a trauma intensive care unit nurse in Reno, Nevada. She relocated to the San Francisco area and is currently employed as a Unit Director at University of California Medical Center, San Francisco, managing both a surgical oncology and a medical-surgical intensive care unit at the Mission Bay and Mount Zion Campuses.
In 2007, she joined the Rotary Club of Sparks in Sparks, Nevada. She relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area, and in 2013 she became a founding member and Charter President of the San Francisco Evening Rotary Club. Her club gave her a focus that included the engagement of young professionals into the organization, and she saw the need for the organization to innovate and become more relevant in today’s world. In 2014, she was selected to participate in the Rotary Young Professionals Summit in Chicago, and in 2015, she organized and held the West Coast Young Professionals Summit in Berkeley, CA. That same year, she was also selected by RI president, K.R. Ravi Ravindran to serve as the young professional advisor on the Rotary International Membership Committee.
In 2016, she created and chaired the Rotary Connecting for Good Tour, the largest goodwill tour on the West Coast of the United States, involving 6 states and 14 cities. Once the tour was completed, she helped create and charter the Rotary Club of San Francisco Castro in San Francisco.
In 2021, she served as District Governor for Rotary District 5150, and is currently serving as the District Learning and Leadership Development Chair. She has also rejoined the Far West PETS faculty for 2023 and is the event chair for the Zone 26/27 Big West Breakfast to be held at the Rotary International Convention in Melbourne, Australia.
Rotary District 5180
Faculty Member
Glenn is a member of the Rotary Club of Roseville and served as club president in 2008-2009. His classification is Real Estate.
In Rotary District 5180, Glenn has served as the District Rotary Foundation Committee Chair and has served as District Governor (2015-2016), also Membership Chair, and District Trainer.
At the Rotary Zone level, Glenn was Chair for the 2020 Rotary Zone 26 & 27 Virtual Institute, has served on the Zone 26 & 27 Big West Advisory Board, education team for GETS, GNTS and instructor at Far West PETS. He is one of the engineers of the newly founded Rotary Passport Clubs.
Glenn is a Paul Harris Society, Bequest Society and Major Donor. He has been on international service projects to El Rosario Mexico delivering a firetruck and to Sao Paulo Brazil delivering water filters in the Favelas.
Rotary District 5150
Faculty Member
Since joining Rotary in 2009, Jenny has embodied the spirit and enthusiasm of the organization. Her passion ignited when she served as Camp Director for Camp Royal (RYLA) and led a Group Study Exchange team to Brazil. This experience inspired her to become President of the East Fresno Rotary Club in District 5230 for the 2014-2015 term. After relocating to the District 5150 area, Jenny quickly immersed herself in Rotary service and is now a proud member of the Rotary Club of Ignacio. She has since held numerous roles, including District Youth Chair, RYLA Co-Director, Assistant Governor, Chief of Staff for the 2021-2022 term, District Trainer, and President Elect Training Seminar Faculty member.
Professionally, Jenny is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with her own therapy and training business, Waves of Change Recovery Services. With thirty years of experience, she is recognized as a leader in her field, specializing in mental health and addiction issues. Jenny is also a National Network Trainer for Motivational Interviewing, integrating these principles into her Rotary work. She has developed numerous workshops to help members learn the art of motivational interviewing, thereby enhancing Rotarian engagement.
District 5160
With too many years of public accounting, Beri’s experience includes five years with a national firm, five years with a local firm…and in 1992, started her own full service accounting firm in Concord, California where she admits, she had the best and worst boss ever! She has recently “sold” her practice to take on MORE ROTARY. When she says she is Semi-Retired…it means she is now only working 20-30 hours a week!
Beri has held roles as part time CFO and VP of Finance and Audit for a 1000+ employee Multi National IT Service Company located in Pleasanton, California that she began working with as their outside CPA beginning in 1994 (they had 10 employees).
Beri joined Rotary in November of 1992 and has served many capacities at both the Club, District and International levels. She has served as President 3 terms, District Assistant Governor for 2 terms, District Treasurer for 3 terms, International Treasurer for the Yachting Fellowship of Rotarians for 2 terms, District Visioning Team since 2010, District Conference Co-Chair 2021-22, District Training Team 2024-25 and the best job ever, as Chair of Rotary District Camp Venture from 2006 to 2023. (She continues to mentor her successors in this entrepreneurial boot camp for high school students!)
She is Glamma to her 3 Grands who live in Concord. She loves watching them grow and sharing their antics on Facebook.
Her mom is currently living close to her….and calls her “The General”. She helps as needed with her well being…and “walks” her regularly.
Beri now admits, she has a HUGE CASE OF FOMR. Fear of Missing Rotary!
District 5220
Originally from Southern California, Christine Smith now calls the foothills of the Sierra Nevada home, living just a few miles from the south entrance to Yosemite National Park.
A dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Oakhurst since 2011, Christine has embraced Rotary’s commitment to Service Above Self through leadership at both the club and district levels. She served as Club President in 2019–2020 and spent three years as a District 5220 Assistant Governor. She continues to serve on the District Advisory Council and has chaired the District 5220 Conference in both 2024 and 2025. One of her greatest Rotary passions is serving as a counselor at RYLA, where she enjoys inspiring and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Professionally, Christine has built a successful career spanning more than 30 years in construction and interior design. She serves as Chief Financial Officer of Custom Design Construction & Interiors Inc., a company she has helped grow alongside her husband and business partner, Larry. In 2011, she expanded her professional pursuits by founding Designs by Christine, where she works as a Certified Interior Designer, helping clients create beautiful, functional spaces that reflect their lifestyles.
Christine and Larry have been business partners for more than three decades and have been married since 2012. Their partnership extends beyond work and home—they joined Rotary together on the very same day and continue to share a passion for service and community involvement. Together they have three children, including a son and daughter-in-law who are also proud Rotarians, and six grandchildren who bring them endless joy.
Throughout her life, Christine has been deeply committed to serving her community, planning and leading successful fundraising events and charitable initiatives for numerous nonprofit organizations. She and Larry proudly support The Rotary Foundation as Major Donors, members of the Paul Harris Society, and members of the PolioPlus Society, reflecting their enduring commitment to Rotary’s mission of creating lasting change both locally and around the world.
District 5180
Brian has a lifetime of Rotary service, starting in high school through Interact, where he was the Interact District Governor for District 5240. He continued his Rotary commitment by serving as the President of the Rotaract Club of Fresno State from 1987-1989.
After a brief break, Brian joined Rotary in 1998 and served as the President of the Rotary Club of Roseville for the 2010-2011 term, and as District 5180 Assistant Governor from 2016-2019. He has also served on our Rotary Foundation Board and was integral to our human trafficking project.
Besides his Rotary involvement, Brian serves on the Board of Directors of Sacramento Regional Family Justice Center where he has helped to guide the efforts of the Center for more than eight years.
Brian’s professional work is as CEO of Strategy and Innovation Institute and is one of the leading experts in the US on business model design and innovation, new market space creation, and OKRs (execution). He has 30 years of consulting/sales experience with start-ups and Fortune 500 firms having worked with companies around the world. He holds a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) from Capella University.
District 5180 is honored to have Brian accept our invitation to serve our District over the next several years and to apply his many skills and experience to help guide the future of our District and its clubs.
District 5150
J. Anthony “Tony” Villanueva of the Rotary Club of San Mateo is honored and excited to serve as Rotary International District 5150 Governor for the 2027-2028 term.
A dedicated Rotarian since 2009, Tony served as club president in 2016-17 and has made a significant impact through various roles, including serving as a club and club foundation board member, 4-year and 2-year scholarship committee member, and club Centennial Gala chair. Among his favorite club projects are the two affordable, senior housing communities owned and operated by an affiliate of his club and his club’s various youth scholarship programs, which reflect his deep commitment to Rotary’s mission of service.
At the district level, Tony has contributed extensively, holding positions such as Assistant Governor, Chief of Protocol, Events Coordinator, and Chief of Staff. In his professional career, Tony is a seasoned lawyer with expertise in real estate and business law. He is a partner at Lakin Spears, LLP in Palo Alto. Tony is also a licensed real estate broker, lending further expertise to his comprehensive legal practice.
Beyond his Rotary and professional commitments, Tony is a passionate community leader. He is the Chair of the Personnel Board for the City of San Mateo, a body that recommends and advises the city manager regarding personnel matters and hears appeals from City employees. He also serves on the Board of Directors of Lesley Senior Communities, which provides affordable housing for seniors in San Mateo County. Tony also serves as Vice President of Development and a member of the Board of Directors of Pacific Skyline Council, which supports the delivery of scouting programs to over 4,000 youth on the San Francisco Peninsula. Additionally, Tony has served on the boards of the Human Investment Project (HIP Housing) and the San Mateo County Legal Aid Society, further reflecting his dedication to civic involvement and community service.
Rotary District 5230
Susan Winey, a native of Visalia, CA, holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Accounting from California State University Fresno. She left a career in public accounting to run her family’s vocational education college. She has been successfully running the business for over 30 years.
Susan joined the Rotary Club of Visalia in 1996. She served on the Board of Directors for seven years moving through each area of service as well as Treasurer. She was Club President in 2016-2017 and was honored by her club with the Rotarian of the Year award in 2018 and again in 2019.
She began serving at the District level in 2017 as Assistant District Governor for District 5230. Susan has served in several capacities since, such as District Trainer (2020- 2023), District Board of Directors (2021-2023), District Conference CoChair 2025 and Chief of Staff (2022-2025).
Susan is an active member of both the Paul Harris Society and Polio Plus Society as well as a Benefactor.
In 2019, Susan found a passion for focused learning when she became a facilitator for Rotary Leadership Institute and joined the Far West PETS faculty.
She resides in Visalia, CA with her husband, Jeff and their dog, Marley. She has two grown children, Scott and Kaitlyn, and one grandson, Enrique. Outside of Rotary, she loves spending time golfing and traveling.
For Susan, service to others through Rotary is a source of profound meaning and fulfillment, enriching her life with purpose and connection to her community.
District 5220
Pete Herrmann has been a member of the Rotary Club of Modesto (MoRo) since 2006. He has held multiple leadership positions in the club and was the club President in 2016-17. He is the Assistant Governor for Area 6.
Pete received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management CSU, Chico and his MBA from Saint Mary’s University in Moraga, California.
He is principal owner of NextStep Advisors in Modesto. He is a Business Strategy Advisor to privately held companies and by extension, Pete is committed to fostering economic and community development through the success of the businesses he serves.
Pete has seen how sustainable business growth and profitability lead NextStep clients to foster a learning and growth culture. This means recruiting, hiring, educating, and promoting key employees to fill more responsible positions.
He is committed to his community as evidenced by his past service on the board of over 15 non-profit organizations.
Pete has been married to Marcia, for 42 years. Marcia founded MHD Group in 1987. An award-winning Branding and Advertising Agency with a global client base.
Pete and Marcia have two children and four grandchildren.
They enjoy grandparenting, travel, hiking, reading, cooking/baking, gardening, mentoring, and community service.
District 5190
Kurt joined the Rotary Club of Placerville in January 2014. He was sponsored by his father, Danno, who has been a Rotarian for 60 years. He quickly took on leadership roles in the club including serving as president for three terms from 2018-2021. This was followed immediately by taking on the role of assistant/area governor from 2021-2025. As president, Kurt was the driving force behind the development and installation of a batting cage at the City of Placerville’s Rotary Park and improving ADA access to the seating area. With Kurt at the helm, his club and many community members were responsible for raising $100,000 for the Rotary Club of Paradise following the deadly Camp Fire. Kurt has filled roles for the district including being on the disaster response committee, district service chair, and the district’s Rotary Leadership Institute cadre. Kurt is a Paul Harris Fellow, Polio Plus Society member, and contributes to the Rotary Foundation monthly through Rotary Direct.
Kurt is a fifth-generation resident of El Dorado County and was born and raised in Placerville. He returned to Placerville after his 23-year career in the United States Air Force where he flew KC135R and C-130E/H aircraft as co-pilot, aircraft commander, and instructor pilot in both airframes. Kurt participated in a number of operations around the globe including Desert Shield/Storm/Calm, Restore Hope, Provide Promise, Iraqi Freedom, and Deep Freeze.
Kurt and his father manage commercial property in Placerville and have a small walnut orchard in the Apple Hill area. Kurt’s wife, Veronica (Polly), recently retired as a Colonel from a 31-year career in both the active duty and the Air Force Reserve. They have two sons, one a student and athlete (cross-country and track) at Cal Poly Humboldt, and the other, also a student-athlete (football and track), in high school.
In addition to Rotary, Kurt’s involvement in the community includes being the publicity chair for Placerville Ducks Unlimited, Flight Captain of the Sierra Flight 27 Order of Daedalians, former board member and vice-president of the Marshall Foundation for Community Health, and former commissioner for District 3 of the County of El Dorado Veterans’ Affairs Commission. He has coached youth basketball for the city and junior varsity baseball for El Dorado High School. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
District 5180
Longtime Rotarian Dave Veden is a charter member of the Rotary Club of Natomas and was sponsored by PDG Steve Lemmon. Dave’s Dad, Tye, a longtime Rotarian and Past President of the Rotary Club of Glendale, CA, gave Dave his first Paul Harris Fellowship as a Christmas gift. To try and figure out what the gift was, Dave became even more curious about Rotary, and readily accepted the invitation to join a chartering club, serving as President in 1998-99 and again in 2022-23.
Dave worked for Associated Sound for 45 years in various capacities including service technician, rental manager, production manager and installation contractor. In 2023 when the decision was made to close that business, he started his own installation and contracting business – NorCal Pro AV Support.
Dave has also served on two City Council advisory committees, and a PBID Board of Directors. He and his wife, Michaeline, are proud Sacramento State Hornet alums and are members of the Sacramento State President’s Circle.
Dave has served in various capacities in the District including the AV Team, Assistant Governor, and Foundation Committee (District Grants). He has served as the Facilities & Operations Chair for Far West PETS since 2010 in addition to supporting numerous events for 5180, other districts, and at Zone Institutes.
Dave and his wife Michaeline live in the College Greens area of Sacramento with their current rescue dog, Bella.
District 5170
Dr. Geeta Kadambi (Ph.D.) is a Scientist and Patent Agent. She is the founder and CEO of Riddhi IP LLC, a patent law firm, and has worked at NASA as a scientist. Geeta is currently a Human Relations Commissioner for City of Fremont, CA. Besides being an active Rotarian, Geeta has served as Senior Advisor and Board Member for several organizations.
Geeta has served as Area/Assistant Governor for the years 2022-2024, Chair of the Avenues of Service Event in September, 2023. She served as District Membership Co-Chair (Membership Attraction) in 2022-2023, and District International Service Chair in 2020-2021. She was Awarded “Rotarian of the year” award in 2023. Geeta was Charter President of the Rotary Club of Fremont Bridge in 2018-2019.
Geeta is passionate about fighting diseases, education and providing clean water. Geeta has participated in 11 Global grants around the world thus far.
Geeta loves to travel, reading books, painting, window shopping and has a sweet tooth. She is never shy to beg for donations for Rotary. Geeta has been married to Vasu for the last 32 years. They have a daughter, a son, and one grandson.
District 5150
Yuhui Chen from the Rotary Club of Menlo Park is excited to serve as Rotary International District 5150 Governor for the Rotary year 2026-2027.
YuHui Chen’s journey began in Taiwan. But for the past 15 years, she has wholeheartedly embraced Palo Alto, California, as her true home. Guided by a deep conviction that true fitness encompasses the spirit, body, and mind, Yuhui founded SBM Fitness in 2010—not simply to inspire exercise, but to empower others to build lasting wellness, nurture self-belief, and embrace meaningful lifestyle changes.
Service is at the heart of everything Yuhui does. For over 13 years, she has been an enthusiastic and dedicated member of the Rotary Club of Menlo Park, proudly serving as Club President in 2018 and leading numerous initiatives as District Vocational Service Chair and Rotary Means Business Committee Chair. One of her most profound experiences came in 2019, when she traveled to Uganda with 30 fellow Rotarians to install a clean water system for a community in need—a transformative journey that deepened her passion for global service and human connection.
Yuhui shares her commitment to making a difference with her partner, Daniel Geraldi, the Rotary District 5160 Governor for 2024–2025. Together, they pour their energy and compassion into Rotary’s mission, always seeking new ways to bring positive change to both local neighborhoods and distant communities. Yuhui’s adult children, Mia and Sean, are her steadfast supporters, actively participating in both her business and Rotary, and contributing their time and talents to community events.
For Yuhui, Rotary is far more than service—it’s a source of inspiration, growth, and belonging. She is deeply grateful for the extraordinary people she’s met, the communities she’s been able to serve, and the perspective she’s gained on leadership, generosity, and the power of bringing people together to change lives
Five fun facts
I am passionate about graphic design. I received a few awards from Taiwanese tea packaging design and carpet design when I was a teenager.
I hold the record for the most push-ups in 60 seconds with 55 repetitions.
I am fluent in four languages.
Between 1995 and 2010, I moved 19 times.
All five of my sisters work in educational-related fields.
Despite owning a gym, I cannot swim.
(And, in case you’re wondering… Yuhui is pronouned “You-Way”).
District 5130
An active Rotarian for over 24 years, Jeff was president of the Rotary Club of Santa Rosa for the 2020-2021 year during our COVID pandemic years and had the unique experience of conducting all of his club and club board meetings remotely via Zoom. Jeff’s Rotary career began in Pittsburg, California, and has included membership in the Rotary Club of Beverly Hills and twice in the Rotary Club of Santa Rosa. He has served as chair of his club bylaws committee, annual Giro Bello Bike Ride Director, and Club Foundation Board member.
Rotary has provided me with an opportunity to continue serving the community and those in need. The far-reaching impacts of international projects and the knowledge of local community needs and partnerships are unique to Rotary. I have built many great friendships in each of my clubs and look forward to my service as District Governor in 2026-2027.
Jeff has served as City Manager in three California Cities: Beverly Hills, Santa Rosa, and Pittsburg. Jeff’s 38-year public service career has included eight California cities, one California County, and one California recreation and park district.
His career included the development and completion of numerous complex capital projects, including the Geysers Waste Water Pipeline and Reuse Project in Santa Rosa, the Prince Memorial Greenway and Santa Rosa Creek Restoration in Santa Rosa, the design and construction of the Pittsburg Civic Center, and the creation of the Pittsburg Power Company, one of the only Municipal Gas and Electric Utilities created in the State of California in the last 50 years.
He served as President of the League of California Cities City Managers Department in 2008 and as a member of the League of California Cities Board of Directors from 2009 -2011. He served on the Board of the California City Managers Foundation from 2005 to 2015 and as the foundation’s Vice President from 2013 to 2015. Locally, Jeff has served as Chair of the Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees and is a continuing member of the board and a past board member of the Santa Rosa Junior College Foundation and United Way of the Wine Country.
Jeff and his wife Patty, also a member of the Rotary Club of Santa Rosa, live in Santa Rosa, CA. Jeff and Patty enjoy road biking, bocce ball, travel, and entertaining. They have two adult daughters. Cherie is married with two children and living in Danville, CA, and is a Senior Manager Marketing and Brand for Albertsons Companies and Elyse is married and living in San Francisco and is a Senior Instructional Design Manager for Chegg, Inc.