I was District Director in District 52 Toastmasters for 2020-2021
Why did I choose this leadership path?
I was introduced to Toastmasters by Linnaea Mallette and she introduced me to many “senior”, experienced Toastmasters. This broadened my view of the program. I saw the way Toastmasters members interacted with each other and how that was different than “networking” groups. The members I met had been in Toastmasters many years and met me with enthusiasm and warmth.
My Journey
I wanted to be a part of this and learn about the opportunities. My journey began in July 2012.
I joined a club because of Table Topics. I know that sounds funny, since many people are scared to participate in impromptu exercises, but it reminded me of a childhood experience I had with my father. I still recall the question I was asked at that meeting.
In the next months, I joined 2 other clubs, Golden Gavel and Toastmasters for Leaders. Both of these afforded me the opportunity to learn from the District Leadership. The members of these clubs were past District Directors and leaders. I was asked to take the position of District Public Relations Officer.
I volunteered for the next two years as PRO. I participated in the Executive Committee meetings, learning all about the Policies and Protocols of Toastmasters.
I soon became VP of Education for two clubs. My understanding of computers made me a prime candidate to help clubs get their websites up and functional.
I saw the value of achieving my goals within the program and sought to complete my educational journey through participating. I received my Distinguished Toastmaster designation in November 2013. After this I mentored other members to achieve their DTM.
2019-2020
The Pathways program will be 100% active in June of 2020. Making the transition to Pathways smooth and understandable was a goal I achieved through holding Pathways Pizza Parties and Zoom trainings with the Pathways chair. Clarifying the program helps members to move forward.
I was able to share at Mid Year Training how District 52 approached the Pathways transition and help clubs and members keep going forward.
The Officer Training Workshops for each office were well received. These were offered during the extended training months of November, December and January. We video taped the workshops and they are available on YouTube. Our officers commented on how they felt these were better than the normal trainings.
The Team
No manager worth anything does all the work. The best ones delegate and grow their delegates accordingly. The people working with me are helping me to create and execute great training and speaking opportunities. They achieve leadership growth. It is with these teams that the District is successful.