THOMASVILLE- A swan song celebration was held for Rotary Club President Mary Beth Donalson on Thursday afternoon, as members welcomed incoming President Marta Jones Turner.
Donalson was emotional as she thanked the club for everything over the last calendar year.
“As I prepare to step down from a role you all so humbly blessed me with, I’m reminded of the great year we had,” she said tearfully. “From our first community gardens to engaging programs to fun and exciting projects, this year would not have been possible without the Rotarians in this room.”
Additionally, Donalson thanked her husband and son who were in attendance for always being by her side as she served her community. To show her appreciation, she presented both of them with Paul Harris Fellowships.
“They have stood by me through the good and bad days, but mostly good,” she joked. “My husband has been my rock this year.”
Donalson said she would also be remiss without thanking her Board of Directors, who kept her in line this year.
After a standing ovation, Past District Governor Fran Milberg explained to the club that July 1 started the new calendar year, where a new Board of Directors would take over.
“Club presidents need to have good leadership skills,” she said. “We look to club presidents to bring something special to our club.”
Milberg thanked Donalson for her extraordinary leadership over the past year and told the club they would be in good hands with the 2024-25 president-elect.
Turner has a storied history with the Rotary Club of Thomasville that she was proud to share upon being pinned as president.
Nearly 30 years ago, Turner was invited to join the Rotary Club of Thomasville as the first female member. She has since held numerous positions before eventually being asked by her fellow Rotarians to serve as president.
“The membership has the confidence in you as a person and in your leadership skills,” Milberg told her. “As a Rotarian, you have shown us your passion for service above self. This year, you will help us understand the new motto, ‘The Magic of Rotary,’ while providing service to this community.”
Turner thanked her fellow Rotarians, telling them she was dedicated to continuing the long legacy of service above self that the Thomasville Rotary Club is known for.
The new Board of Directors for the 2024-25 year was also recognized. The board for this year includes President-Elect Nate Tyler, Past-President Donalson, Secretary Anna Lee, Treasurer Warren Ballard, Membership Director Angela Williamson, Public Image Director David Sofferin, Club Administration Director Devona Thompson, Foundation Director Carol Jones, Community Service Director Barbara Williams Anderson, Youth Services Director Chandler Giddes, Director Scott Rich and Executive Secretary Teri White.
“Officers and directors, you are now going to be members of the exclusive club of Rotary leaders,” Milberg said. “You have been given this one year to lead the Rotary Club of Thomasville and to be better Rotarians, reaching out in our community, our district, and the world.”
Turner shared with Milberg and the club that the Board has already started meeting and they have big plans for this year that they are excited to begin, following the July 4th holiday.