Bob Stovall
District 5470 Assistant Governor

For District 5470 Assistant Governor Bob Stovall, Rotary is more than an organization he joined—it has been part of his life since birth.

Bob’s father and grandfather were members of the Denver Rotary Club when it was the city’s only Rotary club. In those days, classifications were an important part of membership. His grandfather was designated “Senior Active,” while his father’s wonderfully specific classification was “Automobiles–New–Ford–South Denver.” All of Denver’s Ford dealers were Rotarians at the time.

As a child, Bob attended many Rotary events, including the annual picnic at the original Elitch Gardens. His mother was an active Rotary-Ann—and, fittingly, her name really was Ann.

Bob officially began his own Rotary journey in 1984, when he was invited to join the Rotary Club of Farmington, New Mexico. Since then, he has belonged to four Rotary clubs, served as president of two and participated extensively in service at both the club and district levels. International service and the travel opportunities connected with it have been especially meaningful to him.

When Donna Hood was selected to serve as a future district governor, she invited Bob to become an assistant governor—a role she had previously held. Bob saw it as another opportunity to become involved and build relationships with Rotary leaders throughout the district.

Today, Bob serves as assistant governor for the Rotary clubs of Florence, Cañon City and Wet Mountain Valley.

“The assistant governor is the connection between clubs and the district governor,” Bob explained. “We get to know our clubs and support them however we can.”

Working with one larger club and two smaller clubs gives Bob a valuable perspective on the different opportunities and challenges clubs experience. One of the most persistent challenges, he said, is encouraging members to step into club leadership positions.

What Bob enjoys most is getting to know Rotarians in communities with distinct histories, cultures and personalities. Each club approaches Rotary differently, but all share a commitment to service.

After more than four decades as a Rotarian—and a lifetime surrounded by Rotary—Bob has one important message for other members: Don’t let your Rotary experience stop at the doors of your own club.

Attend another club’s meeting while traveling. Participate in district activities. Meet Rotarians from other communities and learn about their projects.

“Get to know the big world of Rotary,” Bob encouraged.

It is advice drawn from a lifetime of experience—and from a Rotary journey that continues to grow through every new connection.