Marilyn Sanderson, Rotary District Governor of District 5340 for 2016-17 was our special guest.
 
Marilyn grew up in Guthrie, Oklahoma. She has an MS in Education from Wichita State University and has been a teacher-union negotiator and organizer in Oklahoma and California. She retired from the California Teachers Association in 2004 and is now an active Realtor in San Diego.
 
 
Marilyn, a member of the Rotary Club of La Mesa Sunrise, was president in 2009-10, and has served two years as Assistant Governor, Public Image Chair and Executive Aide to the District Governor. She has been a PETS facilitator and Rotary Leadership facilitator. She is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow and Bequest Society member. Her husband Jack Cottrell, also from Oklahoma, is a Rotarian and member of the Rotary Club of Old Mission (San Diego).
 
Marilyn gave a wonderful spontaneous speech. She started by expressing appreciation for Violetta’s beautiful piano music, and Maury’s innovative banner with mixed Rotary flags from worldwide Rotary clubs.
 
Marilyn told amusing stories about how a persistent member pestered her till she joined Rotary. At first, she says, she considered them a bunch of good real-estate prospects.
 
Marilyn found her passion for Rotary in Kenya and Mexico, participating in club and District projects. Locally she has initiated and participated in many projects benefiting senior citizens, disabled veterans and foster children. She told poignant stories of how she was moved by the poor in Nairobi, Kenya.
 
Marilyn closed saying that Rotary is a place to start to make a difference. What we do for others goes beyond just us! Give back to the world that gives so much to you!
 
Marilyn is on Facebook and LinkedIn.
 
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