Two distinguished Rotarians were awarded Rotarian of the Year at the 2025 District Conference in Grants Pass this weekend. And like true Rotarians, both Joe Vincent and Aimee Walsh claim to be unworthy to share the stage with the other. They are both as deserving as they are humble.

We’ll start by acknowledging Aimee Walsh this week. She spins all the plates — simultaneously.

From India to Spain to Taiwan, every time she hosted a new student, their family — and their world — got bigger. She opened up her home, her family, and her heart. She committed to the peace-building work of making brave young international students’ journeys vibrant and unforgettable cultural exchanges. 

Her family’s very first inbound youth exchange student grew up to play bassoon at the Royal Conservatory at The Hague. Another grew up to be a pilot in Guatemala. 

But her Rotary history of changing and saving lives didn’t start with six bright kids from four different countries. 

And it didn’t end with two of her own children being selected as RYE outbounds.

In 2009, Walsh began a decade-long commitment to the Great Rotary Duck Race. The community juggernaut didn’t just raise awareness to prevent child abuse throughout Lane County. They raised $7 million to empower vulnerable families when they need help the most.

While serving as the CEO of a complex nonprofit serving thousands of families navigating independent living with different disabilities, this Rotarian has also managed to serve their club, and this district, in countless behind-the-scenes roles. 

This book-loving woman with a big family and a busy life always makes time to do the “invisible” administrative and organizational work that makes big, powerful machines like a Rotary district run smoothly and successfully. She’s organized and revitalized conferences, workshops, trainings, and ceremonies. She’s created curricula to engage all learning types and adapt to global and cultural changes. She also made time to serve as an Assistant Governor before serving as one of our youngest District Governors.

When Rotary International called for younger working professionals in leadership roles, Aimee Walsh stepped all the way up.

Sometimes Rotarians defy physics and bend the laws of time to get everything done. This award isn’t just an accounting of tasks and duties. This award celebrates the true culmination of Service Above Self.

“When the world is divided and focused inward – you are working and fighting for peace, understanding, health, and opportunity for everyone. Rotarians are people of action!! Let’s goooo!!” Aimee said of a dozen other 5110-ers who were recognized for their contributions from international service to local vocational work.

Aimee might not be a magician. But she makes the Magic of Rotary possible by exemplifying servant leadership.  

Please take a moment to congratulate our dear friend, her joyful heart, and her tireless investment in our shared mission. Leave a comment here or send her an emai via DACdb. 

Image description: Joe Vincent and Aimee Walsh smile on stage. Each is holding a plaque honoring their Rotarian of the Year recognition. Joe is wearing glasses, Rotary pins on his lapels, and a brightly colored Argyle tie. Aimee is wearing a black dress with a cream and black embroidered jacket, and a black netted fascinator with black feathers.

News Source : https://rotarydistrict5110.com/aimee-walsh-2025-rotarian-of-the-year/