Stephanie A. Urchick of the Rotary Club of McMurray, Pennsylvania, will serve as Rotary International President in 2024-25. Her tenure will emphasize peacebuilding, eradicating polio, and promoting the "Magic of Rotary."
Stephanie Urchick named Rotary International President for 2024-25
Stephanie A. Urchick, a distinguished member of the Rotary Club of McMurray, Pennsylvania, has been announced as the Rotary International (RI) President for the 2024-25 term. Urchick has a long history of service within RI, having previously served as an RI director, Rotary Foundation trustee, and in numerous other capacities.
Urchick's extensive Rotary career includes roles as training leader, regional Rotary Foundation coordinator, and RI president's representative. Additionally, she has been a key figure in strategic planning and various operational committees.
A Rotary member since 1991, Urchick has engaged in numerous international service projects. Her work includes participating in National Immunization Days in India and Nigeria, building a primary school in Vietnam, and installing water filters in the Dominican Republic. Fluent in several Slavic languages, she has mentored new Rotary members in Ukraine and facilitated a Rotary Foundation grant for a hospital in Poland.
Stephanie Urchick’s professional background spans higher education, consulting, and entertainment. She holds a doctorate in Leadership Studies from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and has been recognized by The Rotary Foundation and numerous other organizations.
The Magic of Rotary
At the Rotary International Assembly on January 8, Urchick announced her presidential theme, "The Magic of Rotary." She emphasized the tangible impact of Rotary’s efforts worldwide, sharing a personal anecdote from a service project in the Dominican Republic where local children marveled at the transformation of dirty water into clean water through filters installed by Rotary members.
“Don’t misunderstand me – we are not going to end polio or bring peace to the world by waving a wand and saying some funny words,” Urchick stated. “It’s up to you. You create the magic with every project completed, every dollar donated, and every new member.”
Prioritizing Peace and Eradicating Polio
Urchick’s presidency will focus on championing Rotary’s Action Plan, balancing continuity and change, and prioritizing peacebuilding. She plans to host a presidential peace conference in 2025 themed "Healing in a Divided World," underscoring Rotary’s long-standing commitment to peace through its global network of peace centers.
Highlighting the organization's ongoing efforts, Urchick reiterated the commitment to polio eradication, urging members to engage with government leaders and support initiatives to end the disease.
Embracing Change and Diversity
Addressing the necessity of evolving while staying true to Rotary’s core values, Urchick encouraged members to reassess and innovate their local club activities, particularly in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
“I hope you’ll join me in opening your arms to future people of action, even if – and in some cases, especially if – they don’t look or act like the typical member of your local club,” she said.
Stephanie Urchick's upcoming presidency promises to be a transformative period for Rotary International, emphasizing impactful service and the power of community engagement under the banner of "The Magic of Rotary."
NOTE: This article contains information sourced from the Rotary International Website.